Payroll Specialist

We are looking for a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to support payroll and accounts payable operations in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania. This Contract to hire position offers the opportunity to manage critical financial processes that serve faculty, staff, student employees, and external vendors. The role is fully onsite and blends payroll administration with accounts payable coordination, requiring accuracy, discretion, and strong service skills.

Responsibilities:

• Manage end-to-end biweekly payroll for faculty, staff, and student employees, ensuring wages are calculated and issued on schedule.
• Review payroll records for accuracy, investigate inconsistencies, and correct issues before final processing.
• Apply federal, state, and institutional payroll guidelines to maintain compliance across all payroll activities.
• Respond to payroll-related questions from employees and departments while partnering with Human Resources, Finance, and academic teams.
• Prepare payroll-related reports and assist with year-end activities to support accurate recordkeeping and reporting.
• Process vendor invoices by reviewing documentation, assigning proper coding, and entering payments into the accounting system.
• Issue payments through approved methods such as checks and wire transfers while helping maintain positive vendor relationships.
• Reconcile vendor statements, research outstanding items, and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Organize and maintain accounts payable files and supporting documentation to ensure complete and accurate financial records.