What are the responsibilities and job description for the Payroll Specialist position at MEXICAN AMERICAN OPPORTUNITY FOUNDATION?
TITLE: Payroll Specialist
PROGRAM: MAOF Finance and Accounting Department (Los Angeles County)
SALARY: $25.91 - $31.49 per hour
FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt, Full-Time
CLOSING DATE: Open until filled
GENERAL SUMMARY
Assist the Payroll Manager in processing payroll and maintaining salary data, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Responsibilities include recording work hours, processing time records, compiling payroll statistics, and calculating payrolls. Support accounting journal entries in line with fiscal policies and coordinate with stakeholders to ensure regulatory compliance. Handle sensitive and confidential information with trust. Collaborate across departments to enhance payroll services and system efficiency. This is a full-time, in-person role requiring regular on-site attendance; hybrid or remote work is not permitted.
Essential Duties:
- Support in implementing all policies, processes, and procedures related to payroll in all agency locations.
- Engage in all tasks necessary to accomplish timely and accurate processing of payroll in coordination with Payroll Supplier(s).
- Support the administration of payroll processing and related reporting with the Payroll Supplier(s).
- Provide support, training, and education to staff as needed regarding payroll, time sheets, etc. This may include responding to email and phone inquiries, as well as presenting at New Hire Orientation.
- Assist in the set-up of payroll-related activities and provide guidance and expertise as needed.
- Proactively engage in third-party supplier relationships to ensure quality standards and adherence to contractual agreements and agreed-upon SLAs.
- Understanding of and support internal and external payroll audits.
- Assist in the preparation of a variety of payroll related documents for the purpose of documenting payroll activities and issues, meeting compliance requirements and providing audit support.
- Ensure proper maintenance of local payroll information, files and records in order to provide up-to-date reference and audit trails for compliance purposes.
- Research discrepancies of payroll information and/or documentation to ensure accuracy and adherence to procedures.
- Review periodic tax filings with federal, state and local authorities to ensure accuracy and timeliness of payroll tax payments.
- Work with Accounting, Finance and Human Resources to ensure the accuracy of the recording of the payroll accounting entries to the general ledger.
- Assists with reconciliations related to payroll and benefits inclusive of producing reports that reconcile monthly payroll deductions, such as garnishments, medical premiums, and 401k. Ensures compliance with garnishment requirements, based on specific state and federal regulations.
- Communicate issues or changes related to matters that impact pay or policy to affected groups.
- Perform ongoing quality assessments of payroll processes and drive continuous improvement efforts.
- Other duties and special projects as assigned.
Education and Experience:
- Associate of Arts Degree in a related field; relevant professional experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
- Strong understanding of payroll legislation, labor laws, and applicable regulations.
- Minimum of three (3) years of payroll processing experience, including computerized payroll systems such as ADP, Paychex, or other third-party platforms.
Knowledge, Skills and Responsibilities:
- Extensive knowledge of wage and hour laws, payroll tax regulations, and federal/state employment compliance.
- Understanding of time and attendance policies and multi-state payroll planning.
- Proficient in payroll process design, identifying areas for improvement and optimization.
- Skilled in generating and analyzing payroll reports, correspondence, and data to meet reporting requirements.
- Able to organize and share knowledge across the organization using systems and networks.
- Strong relationship management, communication, diplomacy, analytical, and leadership skills.
- Detail-oriented, efficient, with the ability to work independently and handle confidential information.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills; capable of interpreting documents and reports.
- Maintains accurate records and can effectively communicate with customers and employees.
- Proficient in using computer software (Microsoft Office, Excel, Word, Outlook) and 10-Key calculator.
- Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred.
- Able to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities with a positive attitude.
- Consistently maintains confidentiality and demonstrates excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
- Regularly attends on-site as scheduled, depending on departmental needs..
MAOF Sponsored Benefits:
MAOF offers a comprehensive package of benefits and perks for both part- and full-time employees, including:
- Personal Time Off (PTO) for vacation, personal days, or sick leave.
- 48 hours of paid sick time.
- 12 paid holidays each calendar year.
- 5 days of paid bereavement leave.
- 5 days of paid jury duty.
- 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- 403(b) retirement plan with a 5% employer match and 100% vesting.
- Basic life and accidental insurance, along with supplemental life insurance options.
- Pet insurance and supplemental plans for cancer, disability, and accidents.
- Opportunities for professional development.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering counseling and various support services for employees and dependents.
- A $500 employee referral bonus for hiring new employees who complete 90 days.
- Discounts on various services and products including AT&T wireless, movies, and amusement parks.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness program and credit union membership.
Salary : $26 - $31
