Payroll Specialist (Levels I - IV)

Department

Payroll | Controllers Office

As part of the Controllers Office, the Payroll Department is committed to ensuring accurate and timely compensation for all university employees. We oversee payroll processing, tax compliance, and financial reporting while delivering exceptional service to faculty, staff, and student employees. Our team values precision, efficiency, and collaboration, operating in a dynamic environment to support the university.

Responsibilities

The Controller's Office offers career ladders for many of our positions, providing tenured employees with promotional opportunities within their job. The successful candidate will be hired at the most appropriate level of Payroll Specialist I through IV, based on their specific education and experience.

Key Responsibilities

Accurate Payroll Execution

• Execute accurate and timely payroll transactions for all pay cycles in a detail-oriented, high-volume environment.
• Calculate and process essential payroll functions including overtime, workers compensation, and termination payouts.
• Manage and monitor various benefit deductions, garnishments, and tax levies to ensure financial precision.

Audit, Compliance, and Analysis

• Analyze payroll-related documentation to ensure the proper application of university policies and federal regulations.
• Audit reports and research payroll system processes to identify and resolve discrepancies quickly.
• Perform regular payroll reconciliations and maintain organized records in accordance with compliance and retention standards.

Stakeholder Support and Collaboration

• Deliver exceptional customer service by responding promptly to payroll inquiries from employees, departments, vendors, and internal partners.
• Resolve complex payroll issues by providing expert guidance, troubleshooting support, and evaluating effective solutions.
• Collaborate with leadership and senior staff on special projects and process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and employee support.

Qualifications

Bachelors degree in accounting, human resources, or similar field; or a high school diploma/equivalent and four years of similar experience. (Note: a combination of post high school education and experience equal to four years.)

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to demonstrate effective customer service skills.
• Ability to demonstrate critical thinking based upon in-depth data, substantiating information, considering, and respecting others input, personal values, and ethics.
• Ability to document existing and new processes.
• Ability to identify complex problems and review related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Ability to utilize advanced problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of the principles, practices, and standards of payroll administration in the assigned area.

Helpful

What We're Looking For:

We are seeking a professional who approaches financial stewardship with a commitment to ethics, precision, and service. In our vibrant academic and professional community, the ideal candidate is someone who navigates complex data with a focus on accuracy while respecting the input and values of others. You are a communicator who documents processes thoroughly and maintains a service-oriented mindset, ensuring that every internal partner and department across the university feels supported and valued.

Who Thrives in This Role?

You'll excel in this role if you are someone who:

• Finds deep satisfaction in detail-oriented, fast-paced work where accuracy is paramount.
• Maintains a "service-first" mindset when resolving payroll inquiries from employees and departments.
• Enjoys the challenge of identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options.
• Stays composed, steady, and focused during deadline-driven pay cycles.
• Upholds the highest standards of ethical conduct and maintains strict confidentiality regarding sensitive financial information.
• Values a collaborative environment where process improvements and personal growth are encouraged.

University Information

One of the nations elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research and encourages creativity. At FSU, there's the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow's news!

Learn more about our university and campuses.

Anticipated Salary Range

The anticipated salary for this position is $46,500, commensurate with experience and education.

FSU Total Rewards

FSU offers a robust Total Rewards package. Visit our website to learn more about our Compensation, Benefits, Wellness, Recognition, and Employee Development programs.

Use our interactive tool to calculate Total Compensation options based on potential salary, benefits and retirement contributions, earned leave, and other employment-related perks.

How To Apply

If qualified and interested in a specific job opening as advertised, apply to Florida State University at https://jobs.fsu.edu. If you are a current FSU employee, apply via myFSU > Self Service.

Applicants are required to complete the online application with all applicable information. Applications must include all work history up to ten years, and education details even if attaching a resume.

Considerations

This is an A&P position.

This position requires successful completion of a criminal history background check.

Equal Employment Opportunity

FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.