What are the responsibilities and job description for the Payroll/Benefits Coordinator position at Allen Park Public Schools?
JOB POSTING – PAYROLL & BENEFITS COORDINATOR
Job Title: Payroll and Benefits Coordinator
Department: Finance/Business Office
Reports To: Director of Finance
Posting Date: March 6, 2025
Job Summary:
Allen Park Public Schools serves approximately 3,700 students across six schools with a dedicated staff of about 500 employees. The Payroll and Benefits Coordinator is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll, benefits administration, and compliance with federal, state, and district policies. This position ensures employees are compensated correctly, maintains benefit records, and provides exceptional customer service to district staff regarding payroll and benefits inquiries.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Process bi-monthly payroll for all district employees, ensuring accuracy in wages, deductions, and benefits.
- Reconcile payroll and ensure all processing follows established checklists and timelines.
- Review and process any changes to wages, deductions, and benefit contributions, including salary adjustments, garnishments, and step/schedule changes.
- Verify hourly time entry reports for accuracy and collaborate with departments to resolve discrepancies.
- Process direct deposits and payroll transfers by applicable deadlines.
- Maintain an accurate payroll system and ensure timely reporting and compliance with all regulations.
- Create and maintain the annual payroll calendar, including timesheet deadlines.
- Calculate and process special payments such as longevity, sick/vacation payouts, and severance, adhering to employee contracts.
- Ensure accurate and timely reporting of all payroll-related tax deposits and filings, including 941s and W-2s.
- Reconcile and process employee insurance contributions, invoices, and necessary ledger postings.
- Perform periodic reconciliations (semi-monthly, monthly, quarterly, and year-end) of payroll and benefits accounts.
- Serve as a liaison between the district and external auditors, government agencies, unions, and retirement agencies, providing necessary payroll and benefits information.
- Maintain and update general ledger accounts following Michigan 1022 Accounting Manual standards.
- Provide guidance and training to staff on payroll procedures and policies.
- Implement process improvements and internal controls to safeguard district financial assets.
- Assist in fiscal year-end closeout and audit preparation related to payroll.
- Administer employee benefits programs, including enrollment, claims assistance, and compliance with ACA regulations.
- Maintain accurate employee payroll and attendance data across SMART and UKG systems.
- Process and track all payroll deductions, including garnishments, tax levies, and child support orders.
- Oversee onboarding and offboarding payroll setup and termination of benefits.
- Ensure compliance with state and federal reporting requirements, including ORS files and payments.
- Support annual open enrollment processes and employee communications.
- Stay informed on payroll and benefits regulatory changes and recommend necessary updates.
- Collaborate with HR and Finance teams to align payroll and benefits administration.
- Other duties as assigned by the Director of Finance.
Qualifications:
Education and Experience:
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
- Minimum of three years of payroll and benefits experience, preferably in a school district or public sector environment.
- Experience with payroll software systems; our payroll systems are SMART and UKG.
Skills and Abilities:
- Proficiency in SMART, Microsoft Office, especially Excel, Kronos UKG, and Google Suite.
- Excellent attention to detail, accuracy, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
- Strong customer service and communication skills to effectively interact with employees and vendors.
- Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, and regulations related to payroll and benefits.
- Ability to perform duties with awareness of district requirements and Board of Education policies.
Working Conditions:
- Office environment within a school district setting.
- May require occasional extended hours to meet payroll and reporting deadlines.
- Frequent use of computers, standard office equipment, and software applications.
Salary and Benefits:
- Salary range: $58,095 - $66,278 on a step scale, with compensation based on experience and the district’s pay scale.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and retirement options.
This job description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and qualifications. The district reserves the right to modify duties as necessary.
Application Deadline: Posting will remain open until the position is filled
Method of Application: Submit application on Wayne RESA Applitrack - Payroll & Benefits Coordinator
www.allenparkschools.com
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $58,095.00 - $66,278.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
Education:
- Associate (Required)
Experience:
- related: 3 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $58,095 - $66,278