Senior Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Joliet Schools 86; Joliet (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Joliet Public Schools District 86 invites applications for a Payroll Specialist (2026-2027). The position provides advanced technical and compliance support to ensure timely administration of payroll and employee benefits, managing calculations, deductions, and regulatory reporting.

Reporting to the Assistant Superintendent of Business and Financial Services and the Director of Finance, the role includes processing complex payroll runs, year-end tasks, W-2s, ACA compliance, and maintaining

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred in accounting, business administration, or communications.
• Minimum of three years of progressively responsible payroll experience, preferably in a school district or educational office.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and ability to pass the District Technology Test.
• Knowledge of budgeting processes and payroll-related reporting.
• Experience with computerized payroll systems and SDS knowledge is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, audit, and process complex payroll runs including retroactive pay and deductions.
• Maintain payroll records with high accuracy and confidentiality.
• Manage employee benefits deductions and garnishments.
• Assist with W-2s, filings, and ACA compliance.
• Prepare various payroll-related reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Respond to payroll, benefits, pension, and tax inquiries.

Skills

Attention to detail

Clear verbal communication

Ability to manage high volume payroll

Education

Bachelor’s degree preferred in accounting or business

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Job description

Joliet Public Schools District 86 invites applications for a Payroll Specialist (2026-2027). The position provides advanced technical and compliance support to ensure timely administration of payroll and employee benefits, managing calculations, deductions, and regulatory reporting.

Reporting to the Assistant Superintendent of Business and Financial Services and the Director of Finance, the role includes processing complex payroll runs, year-end tasks, W-2s, ACA compliance, and maintaining