What are the responsibilities and job description for the Payroll Specialist position at Arlington Public Schools (MA)?
The vision of the Arlington Public Schools is to be an equitable educational community where all learners feel a sense of belonging, experience growth and joy, and are empowered to shape their own futures and contribute to a better world.
ARLINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Arlington, MA 02176
Job Description
Position: Payroll Specialist
Department: Payroll Office
Job Goal: Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing for Arlington Public Schools and Town of Arlington employees.
Qualifications
REPORTS TO: Payroll Manager
SALARY/BENEFITS: In accordance with AEA Unit C Contract
The Arlington Public Schools are committed to creating an inclusive and safe learning and working environment that reflects a diversity of perspectives, values, and experiences. We welcome staff who are aware of the role that bias and prejudice play in society, are creative and willing to try new approaches, and are reflective about their daily practice. We are looking for candidates who welcome a challenge, are eager to collaborate and contribute to the success of students, are ready to engage in two-way partnership with families, and who will contribute their diverse talents to the organization as a whole.
Updated September 24, 2025
ARLINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Arlington, MA 02176
Job Description
Position: Payroll Specialist
Department: Payroll Office
Job Goal: Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing for Arlington Public Schools and Town of Arlington employees.
Qualifications
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred; relevant training or certification in accounting is a plus.
- Proficient in MUNIS, Excel, Microsoft Office, PowerSchool, and other relevant software; ability to work independently in digital environments.
- Prior experience with MUNIS and payroll processing, including earnings, deductions, and garnishments.
- Strong organizational and proofreading skills; ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting with frequent interruptions.
- Demonstrate ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
- Capable of making independent decisions and understanding workplace functions.
- Familiarity with standard office procedures and clerical tasks.
- Excellent interpersonal skills for professional interaction with staff, students, and families.
- Process payroll for Arlington Public School District and/or Town of Arlington and other payroll duties as assigned.
- Manage weekly, biweekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual payroll cycles.
- Administer wage garnishments for child support, taxes, and liens.
- Apply basic accounting principles and office procedures.
- Prepare and track tax reports and filings.
- Initiate electronic fund transfers for payroll disbursements, including direct deposits and check payments
- Handle unemployment claims and employment verifications.
- Process reporting with the Massachusetts Teachers’ Retirement System (MTRS).
- Foster a positive and professional work environment.
- Maintain professionalism in all communications.
- Collaborate with school and town staff to support payroll operations.
- Uphold confidentiality and demonstrate strong communication, technical, and analytical skills.
- Work independently and as part of a team.
- Meet strict deadlines in a dynamic environment.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the Payroll Manager.
REPORTS TO: Payroll Manager
SALARY/BENEFITS: In accordance with AEA Unit C Contract
The Arlington Public Schools are committed to creating an inclusive and safe learning and working environment that reflects a diversity of perspectives, values, and experiences. We welcome staff who are aware of the role that bias and prejudice play in society, are creative and willing to try new approaches, and are reflective about their daily practice. We are looking for candidates who welcome a challenge, are eager to collaborate and contribute to the success of students, are ready to engage in two-way partnership with families, and who will contribute their diverse talents to the organization as a whole.
Updated September 24, 2025