District Payroll Director - Strategy, Compliance & Automation

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD; Cypress (TX); On-site; USD 100,000 - 122,000; Full time

Job summary

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is seeking a seasoned payroll leader to direct district payroll administration at the 244-day annual contract level in Texas. You will supervise staff, ensure accurate processing of all payroll transactions, and manage year-end TRS reconciliations while maintaining compliance with federal and state requirements.

The role requires a CPA or payroll certification preferred, five years of district payroll experience, strong data analysis skills, and excellent communication.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business or business-related field is required.
• CPA or payroll certification preferred.
• Five years payroll experience; school district experience preferred.
• Three years supervisory experience in payroll-related positions with preference for school district experience.
• Five years of experience with payroll software, PowerSchool eFinance and Cognos.
• Experience in automated timekeeping systems.
• Experience analyzing data, processes, and internal controls.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal payroll requirements.
• Strong oral and written communication, public relations, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate all activities related to the overall administration of District payroll.
• Supervise payroll staff by planning, counseling, monitoring, evaluating performance, and assigning responsibilities.
• Ensure all payroll transactions and deductions are processed accurately and timely.
• Determine compensation that is TRS eligible and benefits that must be reported as income.
• Develop, communicate, and authorize payroll processing schedules and deadlines.
• Responsible for fiscal year-end payroll accruals and TRS reconciliations.
• Provide guidance and training to auxiliary locations regarding payroll processes and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state payroll reporting requirements, including employer quarterly tax returns, W-2s, and TRS reporting.
• Provide leadership in developing automated processes that improve efficiency and support district growth.
• Manage fiscal and calendar year-end payroll closing activities and provide information to internal and external auditors.
• Identify, research, communicate, and resolve employee compensation issues.
• Maintain and execute the payroll disaster recovery plan.
• Review extra pay and overtime for reasonableness.
• Ensure proper internal accounting controls and develop payroll policies and procedures.
• Maintain current knowledge of payroll laws, regulations, and best practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Assistant Superintendent of Business and Financial Services.
• Regular and reliable attendance is an essential job function.

Skills

Leadership & supervision

Data analysis

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Internal controls

Education

Bachelor's degree in business or related field

CPA or payroll certification preferred

Tools

PowerSchool eFinance

Cognos

Payroll software

Job description

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is seeking a seasoned payroll leader to direct district payroll administration at the 244-day annual contract level in Texas. You will supervise staff, ensure accurate processing of all payroll transactions, and manage year-end TRS reconciliations while maintaining compliance with federal and state requirements.

The role requires a CPA or payroll certification preferred, five years of district payroll experience, strong data analysis skills, and excellent communication.