Payroll & Benefits Specialist - Full-Time, 12-Month

Cedar Rapids Community School District; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

The Cedar Rapids Community School District is seeking a Payroll and Benefits Assistant to support the Payroll and Benefits team with bi-weekly payroll and employee benefits administration. You will verify data, process changes, and help with audits and inquiries.

The role requires accuracy, confidentiality, strong customer service, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. This 1.0 FTE, 12-month position reports to the Payroll and Benefits Manager.

Qualifications

• Three or more years of experience with customer service and progressive administrative responsibilities.
• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Accounting or related field preferred but not required.
• Experience using HRIS; payroll and benefit systems preferred.
• Strong computer skills including accurate data entry, professional use of email, and proficient utilization of Google Suite and Microsoft Office Suite products.
• Proven experience working in a fast-paced environment and managing multiple priorities with frequent interruptions.

Responsibilities

• Compile, verify, calculate, enter, and maintain employee payroll and benefits data.
• Apply applicable IRS regulations, union contracts, work agreements, Board policies, and department procedures when processing employee data.
• Research and resolve payroll and benefits discrepancies and identify potential issues or errors.
• Process employee changes. Audit reports and system data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
• Interpret benefit eligibility and process related enrollments and employee changes.
• Monitor new hire orientations to ensure required payroll information, including direct deposit and tax elections, is received.
• Respond to employee, vendor, and external agency inquiries by phone, email, and in person, providing accurate and timely information.
• Guide employees in using payroll and benefits resources and applications.
• Complete documentation and employment verifications for external entities as requested.
• Scan, upload, organize, and maintain electronic and paper records in accordance with department procedures.
• Participate in employee and co‑worker training as needed.
• Assist with meetings, events, and special projects.
• Manage multiple priorities, meet established deadlines, and adjust to changing department needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Customer service

Data entry

Attention to detail

Confidentiality

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Tools

HRIS

Payroll software

Google Suite

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Cedar Rapids Community School District is seeking a Payroll and Benefits Assistant to support the Payroll and Benefits team with bi-weekly payroll and employee benefits administration. You will verify data, process changes, and help with audits and inquiries.

The role requires accuracy, confidentiality, strong customer service, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. This 1.0 FTE, 12-month position reports to the Payroll and Benefits Manager.