Payroll Assistant

Reports to the Payroll Director and works closely with both the Director and Payroll Specialist. Prepares the semi-monthly payroll which consists of approximately 500 hourly and temporary employees. Coordinates with departments on Electronic Personnel Action Forms. Ensures time keeping entries are complete and approved. Enters all employee payroll tax and bank documents. Work is performed with considerable independence requiring initiative and independent judgment within the guidelines of federal and state laws and university policies.

Duties will vary but include responsibility for a variety of payroll related tasks. Handles special requests for payroll information and statistical reports. Coordinates with the Payroll Specialist and interacts with nonresident alien students regarding treaty exemptions or withholding credits on scholarships. Processes payroll documents such as Electronic Personnel Action Forms (EPAF), direct deposits, check distribution and W-4/W-2 forms. Coordinates with Financial Aid on funding source for work study students. Responds to inquiries and requests for verification of employee payroll information. Responsible for general accounting, data entry, preparation of monthly spreadsheets, check request, journal entries and other payroll related clerical tasks as assigned. Maintains the Payroll website.

Progressively responsible accounting and payroll experience preferred. Prior knowledge of Banner and TimeClock Plus system beneficial..

Thorough knowledge of payroll and accounting principles, data processing procedures, and federal and state payroll regulations preferred. Skilled in data entry. Operate calculator by touch. Skilled in use of Word and Excel.

Prefer college degree; however, high school graduation with equivalent experience is acceptable.

Must be able to deal professionally with confidential information. Ability to maintain effective working relationships with university employees, administrators and outside contacts. Ability to organize detailed work. Requires attention to accuracy. Personal cell phone usage may be required to complete position duties, including multi-function authentication requirements. Must adhere to University’s core values: People-Centered, Community, Integrity, Visionary, and Connections, per the MSU Values Journey.

Requires the ability to maintain positive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the community. Must adhere to University’s core values: People-Centered, Community, Integrity, Visionary, and Connections, per the MSU Texas Values Journey. Personal cell phone usage may be required to complete position duties, including multi-function authentication requirements. Regular reliable attendance is required.

This position is designated as security sensitive (Mod) and requires a criminal background check. Position is designated as a Responsible Employee as outlined by Title IX. May serve as Campus Security Authority as outlined by the Clery Act.