25-26 Payroll Coordinator

JOB GOAL: The Payroll Coordinator position is a critical member of the Finance team, responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll for all school district employees. By keeping payroll and benefits running smoothly, this role directly supports staff morale and confidence and enables educators to focus on students. This is a union-represented position under the AFSCME Clerical Unit. RESPONSIBILITIES Prepares and processes regular and supplemental payrolls for all district staff (salaried, hourly, and stipend-based); Ensures all compensation and benefits are distributed in accordance with relevant Collective Bargaining Agreements; Sorts and distributes pay checks; Generates and analyzes data reports to ensure accuracy of employee payroll deduction, salary, tax, demographic files and records; Supports accurate reporting to the Massachusetts Teachers Retirement System (MTRS); Plans, manages and administers all staff voluntary and mandatory payroll deductions including but not limited to insurances, union dues, deferred compensation, retirement, loans, etc.; Manages and processes electronic payroll deposit files; Accurately on-boards new employees into the payroll system; Processes and applies to payroll all staff appointments, salary adjustments, promotions, resignations, terminations, leaves of absence, and any other changes affecting the payroll; Works with Human Resources and school leaders to ensure timely updates to payroll and position data; Manages and utilizes payroll software (MUNIS) and all related databases and spreadsheets; Configures Excel timesheets from district departments and prepares them for import into the payroll; Maintains and applies effective working knowledge of benefits and compensation best practices, tax entity forms, state and local tax laws, rules and regulations with respect to payroll preparation and maintenance of records; Respond to employee questions and resolve issues related to compensation and benefits; Maintain confidentiality and ensure compliance with district policies and applicable laws; Prepare payroll reports and filings for city, state, and federal agencies as required; Performs other duties consistent with the scope and responsibility of the position as assigned. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: Excellent technology skills including Microsoft Excel and other data entry Familiarity with MUNIS or similar payroll/finance software is helpful, but not required High level of accuracy and dependability Excellent customer service skills Ability to collaborate with colleagues and work in a team-oriented environment Ability to learn complex systems, multi-task, follow detailed procedures, and meet stringent deadlines Working knowledge of payroll regulations, tax laws, and retirement systems preferred Post-secondary studies in an applicable field (i.e. accounting, finance, management) preferred Experience in payroll, accounting, or finance, especially in public or school settings strongly preferred Terms of Employment: AFSCME Clerical Union Full Year (260 days) Salary: Starting at 72,122 and in accordance with the AFSCME Clerical Contract Reports to: School Payroll Manager The Somerville Public Schools does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, home status, marital/civil union status, sex/gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, place of birth, national origin, ancestry, cultural identity, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals' dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.