Payroll Specialist (Full-Time) Back

Job # 9C5F2C6A-722B-48B3-975F-DE66EE7197A5

Created Sep 4, 2026 7:49pm

Location Tucson, Arizona

The Payroll Specialist ensures accurate and timely payroll processing. This role involves managing payroll data, responding to employee inquiries, handling tax and deduction setups, and collaborating with other departments. The specialist also stays updated on payroll regulations and assists with audits and reporting. Payroll Specialist (Full-Time)

Location:

Tucson, AZ (Corporate / Campus Operations) |

On-Site Type:

Full-Time |

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt Compensation:

$25.62 - $32.03 per hour Position Summary A Day in the Life of a

Payroll Specialist:

Looking for a payroll role where your expertise truly matters? As our Payroll Specialist, you'll leverage UKG Payroll/HR software to streamline processes, ensure multi-state compliance, and make a direct impact—all while growing your skills in a collaborative, employee-owned environment. Enjoy long-term stability, professional development, and the satisfaction of ensuring our faculty, staff, and leadership are paid accurately and on time!

Key Responsibilities Payroll Processing & Multi-State Compliance:

Core Processing:

Ensure accurate, multi-state payroll processing using UKG Payroll/HR software; transmit and receive payroll files while maintaining peak data integrity.

Taxation & Compliance:

Review and set up state tax items, process payroll tax amendments, and maintain active knowledge of local, state, and federal payroll laws.

Deductions & Verifications:

Complete employment verifications and manage wage garnishments, child support orders, tax levies, and other mandatory payroll deductions.

Audit, General Ledger & Reporting:

Data Audits:

Conduct thorough audits of employee time cards, payroll accounts, and miscellaneous deduction accounts.

GL & Financials:

Audit, balance, and process General Ledger (GL) payroll files and financial reporting; assist external teams with annual audit preparations.

Management Reports:

Generate, analyze, and submit recurring and ad-hoc payroll reports to campus leadership and regulatory agencies.

System Configuration & Process Improvement:

UKG Maintenance:

Configure and maintain timesheets, pay groups, earning/deduction codes, and employee status updates within the HRIS platform.

Pay Structures:

Research, build, and maintain complex pay structures and tax configurations to support diverse campus setups.

Efficiency Improvements:

Identify and implement continuous process improvements to boost overall payroll efficiency and workflows.

Employee Support & Team Collaboration:

Customer Service:

Address employee and faculty inquiries regarding pay stubs, tax withholdings, deductions, and Paid Time Off (PTO) balances.

Cross-Functional Partnering:

Collaborate closely with HR, Accounting, and Campus Operations to ensure consistent and synchronized employee data.

Qualifications Minimum Requirements:

Experience:

Minimum of four (4) years of hands-on experience in payroll, human resources, and high-level customer service.

Software Proficiency:

Hands-on experience with UKG (Ultimate/Kronos) or equivalent enterprise HRIS/Payroll platforms; advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

Technical Knowledge:

Strong working knowledge of payroll taxation, wage garnishments, state-by-state compliance, and general ledger operations.

Data Integrity:

Demonstrated track record of handling sensitive employee data with strict confidentiality and discretion.

Communication:

Clear, professional verbal and written communication skills across all organizational levels.

Equivalent Education/Experience:

Any equivalent combination of training, education, or experience that satisfies the minimum requirements will be considered.

Compensation & Employee-Owner Benefits Hiring Range:

$25.62 to $32.03 per hour.

Ownership:

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)—become a direct stakeholder in our 100% employee-owned company.

Retirement:

401(k) Plan with employer matching contributions.