Job Description

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MESD supports and empowers staff through equitable practices, innovative solutions, and responsive services so they can focus on delivering the highest quality education and support to students in the Portland Metro area. 

MESD is currently seeking an experienced payroll specialist to join our team! In this role, you’ll manage complex payroll processes, streamline systems, and partner with colleagues across the district to deliver excellent service for our employees. 

Department:  Human Resources

Reports to:  HR/Payroll Manager

Classification/Range : Classified/Range 16

POSITION PURPOSE: 

The Senior Payroll Specialist plays a critical role in analyzing, evaluating, and processing specialized and technical payroll functions. This includes the coordination, processing, and maintenance of employee payroll, PERS, benefits, and taxes. The position operates under limited supervision, following established practices and ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and district policies.

NATURE & SCOPE: 

This role is responsible for high-level payroll and PERS processing in alignment with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), Wage and Hour regulations, and MESD policies. The position requires advanced expertise in database management and proficiency with systems such as Infinite Visions, TalentEd, and Business Plus. Strong attention to detail and the ability to accurately input and verify data are essential.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Payroll Administration: Prepare and maintain payroll records in compliance with district policies and federal/state laws.
• Compliance and Regulations: Stay current on industry trends, payroll processing developments, and changes to payroll-related laws and regulations.
• Adjustments and Manual Processes: Prepare manual checks, retroactive payments, overpayment adjustments, garnishments, and other payroll edits.
• Time and Absence Management: Review and address pending approvals in TimeCard Online and Absence Management systems; ensure timely batch processing.
• PERS Administration: Monitor and track employee eligibility for PERS contributions and deductions.
• Reporting and Reconciliation: Prepare business office reports, reconcile accounts, compile data from accounting systems, and create journal entries as needed.
• Employee Support: Respond to information requests, troubleshoot payroll issues, and collaborate with employees and component districts to resolve concerns.
• Pay Distribution: Ensure the accurate and timely distribution of paychecks for both temporary and regular employees.
• Cross-Functional Support: Provide backup coverage for other payroll team members and assist with tasks in Human Resources as needed.
• Other Duties: Perform additional job-related duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL QUALITIES:

Equity : Lead and support regional equity initiatives.

Vision : Lead with vision, follow-through and student focus. 

Trust : Develop trust among coworkers and students through honesty and fairness. 

Communication : Communicate in an inclusive, effective and collaborative manner. 

Personal Qualities : Be respectful, excel in customer service, caring, humble and courageous. 

Agency-wide perspective : Be involved in and supportive of continuous overall improvement of MESD programs and services.

Attendance:  Daily and consistent attendance and puncuality are paramount as this provides consistency and alignment with students, peers and programming outcomes. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, ABILITIES: 

• Strong knowledge of payroll procedures, federal/state regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in computerized payroll systems and business databases.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate tactfully and effectively with diverse stakeholders, including employees, attorneys, IRS representatives, and vendors.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and handle high-stress conditions.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and virtual collaboration platforms like Zoom.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to new systems and processes as a motivated self-starter.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, ABILITIES: 

• Bilingual in Spanish preferred but not required

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Associates Degree or higher in Accounting, Human Resources, or a related field preferred,  and/or
• Three to five years of experience processing complex payroll
• Infinite Vision and/or Powerschool experience preferred.
• Any combination of education and experience which would provide the applicant with the desired skills, knowledge and ability required to perform the job

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work is completed in a general office environment. Hybrid scheduling is optional. 

BENEFITS: 

• District pays full medical, dental and vision premiums for eligible employees and dependents
• MESD pays employee’s 6% Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) contribution
• Paid holidays, vacation, sick leave and personal time off
• Tuition Reimbursement and Professional Development 

NOTE: The description contained herein reflects general details as necessary to describe the principle functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods, or otherwise to balance the workload.

This position is subject to board policies, administrative rules and procedures, department regulations and applicable state and federal statutes. This position does not carry administrative authority. All commitments outside of authorized programs and services are subject to prior approval by the supervisor of this position.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER 

MESD recognizes the diversity and worth of all individuals and groups. It is the policy of MESD that there will be no discrimination or harassment of individuals or groups based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, marital status, age, veterans status, genetic information or disability in any educational programs, activities, or employment. 

Reasonable accommodations for the application and interview process will be provided upon request and as required in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Individuals with disabilities may contact the Human Resources Director for additional information or assistance. Speech/Hearing impaired persons may contact the district for assistance through the Oregon telecommunications Relay Service at 1-800-735-2900. 

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