Administrative Specialist - Payroll & Benefits

The MSD of Mt. Vernon seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Administrative Office Specialist – Payroll & Benefits to support the payroll and employee benefits operations. This position is responsible for processing payroll, maintaining employee records, administering benefits programs, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and district requirements.

The ideal candidate demonstrates strong analytical skills, discretion in handling confidential information, exceptional customer service, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced K–12 public school environment.

Responsibilities:

• Process payroll accurately and timely for certified, classified, administrative, and substitute employees.
• Review and verify employee time records, leave balances, and payroll-related documentation.
• Maintain payroll records and ensure proper deductions, tax withholdings, and direct deposit information.
• Reconcile payroll reports and assist with payroll audits.
• Prepare and distribute payroll-related reports as requested.
• Assist employees with payroll questions and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Maintain compliance with federal and state payroll regulations and district policies.
• Administer employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, and other voluntary benefits.
• Coordinate employee enrollment, open enrollment activities, and qualifying life event changes.
• Serve as a liasion between employees and benefits providers.
• Maintain accurate benefits records and ensure proper payroll deductions.
• Assist employees with benefit eligibility, enrollment procedures, and claims-related questions.
• Prepare required reports and documentation related to employee benefits programs.
• Maintain confidential employee personnel, payroll, and benefits records.
• Prepare correspondence, reports, spreadsheets, and other business office documents.
• Answer phones, respond to emails, and provide customer service to district employees and stakeholders. 

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate's degree or business/accounting/human resources/business administration coursework preferred
• Previous payroll, benefits administration, bookkeeping, accounting, or office administration experience preferred.
• Experience in a school district or public-sector environment is a plus.
• Knowledge of payroll processing procedures and employee benefits administration.
• Proficiency in Google Products and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Ability to learn and utilize payroll, human resources, and financial software systems.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication, customer service, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.

Effective Date: To be determined

NOTE: This is a full-time, year-round position (260 days/year), Monday through Friday

The Board of School Trustees reserves the right to waive or modify these specifications.