Payroll Specialist

Position Information

This position is a 1.0 FTE. This role follows a hybrid work model, with two in office days per week. The hourly pay range for this position is $29 to $35, with the starting rate determined based on relevant experience. This position is fully benefit eligible, see attached premium sheet.

Nature of Work

The Payroll Specialist works collaboratively with the Finance and Human Resources teams to support payroll functions for union and non-union positions. They are responsible for performing a wide range of HR & Payroll functions with a high degree of accuracy, timeliness, and confidentiality.

Typical Class Responsibilities

• Processes personnel transactions including new hires, terminations, stipends, longevity, benefits, leaves of absence, and other pay adjustments in accordance with established payroll deadlines and district policies.
• Audits payroll data and employee records to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with applicable laws, collective bargaining agreements, and internal controls. Maintains confidentiality and secures sensitive payroll information.
• Enters and maintains payroll-related data in the HRIS system (Skyward), including pay codes, deductions, benefit elections, assignment splits, calendars, direct deposits, and W-4s. Performs periodic reconciliations and updates for payroll accounts and employee records.
• Manages payroll-related benefits and deductions such as PERA/TRA, TSA, health insurance, life insurance, COBRA, and retiree billing. Coordinates updates for employees returning from leave and ensures proper remittance and reporting.
• Serves as a primary point of contact for payroll-related questions from employees. Provides training, guidance, and support on payroll procedures, ensuring understanding of contracts, policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Prepares and submits required reports and filings including employment verifications, MN unemployment wage detail, PERA/TRA reports, and annual census or leave reports. Ensures timely and accurate submission to external agencies and vendors.
• Collaborates with HR and Finance staff to ensure payroll accuracy and alignment with personnel actions. Provides backup support for payroll processing, and participates in special projects and year-end activities as needed.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

Training and Experience Requirements

Associate’s degree in Accounting, Business, Human Resources, or related field required; Bachelor’s degree preferred. Two (2+) or more years of payroll, human resources and/or other applicable experience; preferably in a public sector or school district environment. Experience with Skyward or similar payroll/HRIS systems preferred.

Preferred Skills

• Strong ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• Excellent attention to detail
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions
• Strong analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with staff at all levels while treating others with dignity and respect
• Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively present information

Physical Requirements

Positions in this class typically require: reaching, standing, walking, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions.

Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Walking and standing are required only occasionally.

Commitment to Equity

At Northeast Metro 916, equity means that everyone has access to what they need in order to learn, grow and thrive.

Northeast Metro 916 will not discriminate against individuals based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, parental status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, age or sexual orientation.