Payroll Accountant

Pendergast Elementary School District • Phoenix, Arizona • Full Time

Posted on Fri, Jun 26, 2026

                                                      PENDERGAST SCHOOL DISTRICT

                                                                      Job Description

JOB TITLE:   Payroll Accountant  

EXEMPT:  No                                                            

GRADE:  117                                                 

LOCATION:  Financial Services                               

TERM OF EMPLOYMENT:  12-Month              

REPORTS TO:  Payroll Supervisor                         

SUMMARY:  The job of Payroll Accountant is done for the purpose(s) of assuring, under supervision, the accuracy and compliance of preliminary reports, time sheets, spreadsheets, etc.; assuring accurate program and funds distribution; and providing federal, state and District personnel with requested information necessary for providing timely and accurate payment of district employees. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Such alternatives to the above required & preferred qualifications as the Superintendent/Designee may find appropriate and acceptable

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Maintains various payroll information (e.g. pay rates and records, leave records, etc.) for the purpose of providing an up-to-date reference and audit trail for compliance
  2. Monitors employee status (e.g. leave time, work location, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring accurate distribution of funds and payroll
  3. Prepares various reports for the purpose of providing written support and/or conveying information
  4. Processes payroll information (e.g. time sheets, withholding information, etc.) for the purpose of updating information and/or authorizing timely payment
  5. Reconciles account balances (e.g. labor distribution, time sheets, leave, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining accurate account balances and distribution of funds
  6. Researches discrepancies of financial information and/or documentation (e.g. time sheets, leave time, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring accuracy and adherence to procedures prior to processing
  7. Responds to written and verbal inquiries (e.g. teachers, substitutes, government agencies, and/or staff) for the purpose of providing information and/or direction as may be required
  8. Supervises the overall activities of the payroll department for the purpose of ensuring efficient operation
  9. Assists other personnel as may be required for the purpose of supporting them in the completion of their work activities
  10. Perform such other duties and assumes such other responsibilities as may be assigned by the Superintendent/Designee

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:  

Skills are required to perform multiple, technical tasks with a need to periodically upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions.  Specific skills required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include:  planning and organizing projects; operating standard office equipment.

Knowledge is required to perform algebra and/or geometry; read a variety of manuals, write documents following prescribed formats, and/or present information to others; and understand complex, multi-step oral and written instructions.  Specific knowledge required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job includes:  pertinent codes, policies, regulations and/or laws.

Ability is required to schedule activities; routinely gather, collate, and/or classify data; and use basic, job-related equipment.  Flexibility is required to independently work with others in a wide variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined but different processes; and operate equipment using defined methods.  Ability is also required to work with a significant diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with specific, job-related data; and utilize specific, job-related equipment.  In working with others, independent problem solving is required to analyze issues and create action plans.  Problem solving with data requires independent interpretation of guidelines; and problem solving with equipment is moderate.  Specific abilities required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: working under time constraints; being attentive to detail; maintain detailed records; and meeting deadlines and schedules. 

RESPONSIBILITY:

Responsibilities include: working under limited supervision using standardized practices and/or methods; leading, guiding and /or coordinating others; and operating within a defined budget.  Utilization of significant resources from other work units is sometimes required to perform the job’s functions.  There is some opportunity to significantly impact the Organization’s services.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: 

The usual and customary methods of performing the job’s functions require the following physical demands:  occasional lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling; and significant fine-finger dexterity.  Generally the job requires 90% sitting, 5% walking and 5% standing.  The job is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment. 

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