Senior Payroll Specialist

ESC Region 11•Grand Prairie, TX

14d

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Executive Director of Accounting (EDA), the Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll for all district employees. This role supports state and federal reporting requirements, manages payroll-related data integrations, ensures compliance with TRS and IRS guidelines, and provides essential administrative support to Human Resources and Finance. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, collaborative, and experienced in K–12 charter school payroll operations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, or related field preferred.
3+ years of payroll experience, preferably in K–12 education or government/public sector.
Strong understanding of payroll laws, deductions, and tax compliance (federal and state).
Excellent attention to detail, confidentiality, and organizational skills.
Proficiency with payroll/HRIS systems and Microsoft Excel.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to meet strict deadlines and manage multiple priorities.
High level of professionalism and customer service when interacting with employees.
Team-oriented and collaborative with HR, Finance, and campus staff.

Nice To Haves

Experience with TRS (Teacher Retirement System of Texas) reporting and processes.
Experience using Skyward (ERP/HR/Payroll modules).
Familiarity with PEIMS employee data requirements.
Knowledge of TEA and charter-school-specific regulations.

Responsibilities

Process bi-weekly or semi-monthly payroll for all employees, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with district policies and applicable regulations.
Maintain and update employee payroll records, deductions, benefits, and wage adjustments.
Audit timekeeping records, leave balances, stipends, and supplemental pay entries for accuracy.
Review payroll exceptions and resolve discrepancies in coordination with HR and campus administration.
Perform monthly and quarterly payroll reconciliations, including validation of wages, benefits, deductions, employer contributions, and liability accounts.
Prepare payroll tax reports (monthly, quarterly, and annual) and upload filings to the appropriate state and federal portals.
Submit payment instructions for payroll-related tax disbursements and other statutory remittances.
Support the PEIMS Coordinator with employee-related submissions, including data verification, coding, and correction of payroll-related elements.
Ensure payroll components align with TEA, state, and federal reporting definitions and timelines.
Coordinate with TRS for employee contributions, membership changes, and reporting requirements.
Review TRS reports and reconcile discrepancies with HR and Finance.
Serve as a point of contact for TRS-related payroll issues.
Utilize Skyward (or other district ERP systems) to process payroll, maintain records, and generate reports.
Assist with system updates, payroll calendar setup, and configuration related to payroll operations.
Maintain data integrity and ensure compliance with internal controls.
Respond to employee questions regarding pay, deductions, timesheets, and tax forms.
Coordinate with HR on new hire onboarding, terminations, and updates related to employee status
Support Finance with year-end close, audit requests, and other payroll documentation needs.