Benefits/Payroll Clerk

Palmdale School District; Palmdale (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established educational institution is seeking a dedicated Payroll Clerk to manage payroll processes and employee benefits. In this vital role, you will ensure accurate payroll calculations, maintain employee records, and assist staff with benefits-related inquiries. You will work in a supportive environment that values your contributions and offers opportunities for professional growth. Join a team that is committed to excellence in education and employee satisfaction, where your skills will make a significant impact on the community.

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Paid Holidays

Sick Leave

Vacation Days

Qualifications

• Two years of experience in financial record-keeping.
• Training in bookkeeping or accounting is essential.

Responsibilities

• Calculate and process payroll for staff and substitutes.
• Maintain employee payroll and benefit records.

Skills

Financial Record-Keeping

Payroll Processing

Clerical Skills

Communication Skills

Time Management

Education

Completion of Twelfth Grade

Coursework in Bookkeeping

Training in Accounting

Tools

Office Equipment

Word Processing Software

Job description

DEFINITION
To perform a variety of responsible clerical accounting duties involved in the preparation, processing, and maintenance of the District's payrolls, including posting and balancing accounts. Additionally, responsible for clerical duties related to the District's benefits programs, including insurance and voluntary deductions, with appropriate account management.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general supervision from the Assistant Superintendent of Business Services.

Duties may include, but are not limited to:

1. Calculate and process payroll for classified staff and substitutes; verify and process timecards, time sheets, and supplemental reports; compute salary rates and adjustments.
2. Maintain employee payroll and benefit records; update salary, attendance, and employment status information; coordinate with county offices; manage files for current and former employees.
3. Track earnings, leave, allowances, and their usage; verify employee attendance and hours worked.
4. Assist new employees with forms, payroll, and personnel procedures; answer related questions.
5. Verify payroll warrants; coordinate distribution of pay warrants across schools.
6. Perform general clerical duties such as typing correspondence, reports, and memoranda.
7. Operate office equipment including typewriters, photocopiers, telephones, calculators, and word processing tools.
8. Assist in other areas during staff shortages or peak periods, including mail, purchasing, and data processing.
9. Verify employment status through written and phone confirmation.
10. Update salary projections for budgeting and negotiations.
11. Manage substitute charges and transfer to appropriate accounts.
12. Provide information on benefit coverage, claims, and procedures; serve as liaison with insurance providers; keep current on policy changes.
13. Explain benefits options to employees, resolve claims issues, and process employee benefit claims efficiently.
14. Process vendor payments, perform technical accounting tasks, and verify billing accuracy.
15. Maintain records of voluntary insurance deductions and related employee information.
16. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Click HERE to view the complete job description. The minimum qualifications include:

• Experience: Two years of responsible financial record-keeping experience.
• Training: Completion of twelfth grade and coursework/training in bookkeeping, accounting, or related fields.

Application Filing
Applications are accepted online only during the recruitment period. An eligibility list will be established for future vacancies. Notifications will be sent via email.

Examination
Includes a qualifying written multiple-choice, performance, and oral exam. Candidates will be notified via email of exam details. Valid ID required. Tentative exam date: Week of May 26, 2025.

Work Schedule
Typically full-time, 8 hours/day, 40 hours/week, on a 12-month calendar.

Salary and Benefits
Salary starts at the first step of the salary schedule. Probation lasts 130 days. Upon permanence, a salary increase and benefits are provided, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. For details, see the benefit matrix.

Holidays and Leaves
17 paid holidays annually, sick leave proportional to hours worked, and earned vacation after probation.

Work Environment and Physical Demands
Primarily indoor work; physical activities include lifting, reaching, bending, and operating office equipment. Exposure to outdoor elements may occur.

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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The Palmdale School District prohibits discrimination based on age, race, gender, disability, and other protected categories. For more information, visit: District Non-Discrimination Policy. Additional policies are available at: Sexual Harassment Policy.