District Payroll Manager – Public Schools

Salem Public Schools; Salem (MA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Salem Public Schools is seeking a Payroll Manager in Salem, MA to oversee weekly and bi-weekly payroll processing across the district. The role reports to the Assistant Superintendent of Finance & Operations and supervises the Payroll Assistant.

As a 12‑month employee working 40 hours per week, you will coordinate benefits, onboarding staff, and ensure compliance with payroll regulations while supporting district budgeting efforts.

Qualifications

• Three or more years of payroll administration and/or management; school or municipal setting preferred.
• APA credentials or equivalent will be considered – may attain in first year of employment.
• Strong knowledge of payroll laws and confidentiality; ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Experience with timekeeping, benefits coordination, and payroll reporting.

Responsibilities

• Manage the district payroll to ensure staff are paid accurately and on time for weekly and biweekly cycles.
• Lead districtwide timesheet process implementation and online timekeeping for hourly employees.
• Reconcile payroll budget accounts; prepare correcting entries as needed for approvals.
• Assist with annual compensation budgeting and regular payroll reporting to the district and School Committee.
• Maintain employee data in the payroll system and coordinate with Human Resources on sensitive transactions.

Skills

Project management

Communication

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Education

Associate degree in Business Administration, Accounting or Finance

Tools

Google Suite

Excel

PowerPoint

MUNIS

QuickBooks

Budget Sense

Red Rover

Job description

Salem Public Schools is seeking a Payroll Manager in Salem, MA to oversee weekly and bi-weekly payroll processing across the district. The role reports to the Assistant Superintendent of Finance & Operations and supervises the Payroll Assistant.

As a 12‑month employee working 40 hours per week, you will coordinate benefits, onboarding staff, and ensure compliance with payroll regulations while supporting district budgeting efforts.