Payroll Specialist

Job Summary:

The Payroll Processing Clerk at Cumberland Academy will be responsible for accurately processing payroll for all school staff, including teachers, administrative personnel, and support staff. This position ensures that employees are paid on time, in compliance with state and federal regulations, and in accordance with district policies. The ideal candidate will have strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining the confidentiality of payroll records.

Key Responsibilities:

• Payroll Processing:
• Process bi-weekly/monthly payroll for all school employees, including teachers, support staff, and substitutes.
• Ensure proper payment of wages, overtime, bonuses, and other compensations, as well as accurate deductions (taxes, retirement, insurance).
• Verify timekeeping data, including employee attendance, leave balances, and hours worked.
• Compliance and Reporting:
• Ensure payroll complies with all Texas Education Agency (TEA) guidelines, local school district policies, and applicable state and federal labor laws.
• Maintain accurate records of employee compensation, benefits, and deductions, and prepare payroll reports as needed.
• Assist in the preparation and submission of required reports to state and federal agencies, including TRS (Teacher Retirement System of Texas) contributions.
• Assist in the distribution of year-end tax forms (e.g., W-2s).
• Employee Records Maintenance:
• Update payroll system with changes to employee status, including new hires, terminations, salary adjustments, and benefit changes.
• Monitor and maintain accurate records of employee leave balances, such as sick leave, vacation, and personal days.
• Reconcile discrepancies related to payroll and employee compensation.
• Employee Support:
• Respond to payroll-related inquiries from employees in a timely and professional manner.
• Resolve payroll discrepancies, such as incorrect payments, and explain payroll processes and deductions to staff.
• Provide information and assistance on TRS-related matters, including retirement contributions and benefits.
• System Management and Improvement:
• Use school district payroll software and systems (e.g., Ascender) to manage payroll processing.
• Assist in maintaining and updating payroll procedures, ensuring compliance with school district policies.
• Recommend process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy of payroll operations.

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field preferred.
• Experience:
• Previous experience in payroll processing, preferably within a school district or public sector organization.
• Familiarity with Texas state payroll laws, TRS (Teacher Retirement System) reporting, and educational payroll systems (e.g., Ascender) preferred.
• Skills:
• Proficiency in payroll software and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Knowledge of Texas payroll regulations and TRS reporting is a plus.

Work Environment:

• School office environment; full-time, typically Monday through Friday.
• Work hours may vary depending on payroll deadlines and school schedules.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds as needed for filing and other office-related tasks.

Industry

• Primary and Secondary Education

Employment Type

Full-time

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $35,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Tyler, TX 75703 (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Tyler, TX 75703: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $35,000 - $50,000