Payroll Analyst

Job Description Job Position: Payroll AnalystLocation: Chicago, IL 60609Pay Rate: $38.00/hr-40.00/hrSchedule: Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 5 PMThe contract Payroll Analyst - General role works with Payroll Services. The Payroll Services facilitates the timely and accurate processing of timekeeping, direct deposit authorizations, employment tax forms, as well as various internal and external payroll deductions. The department is responsible for tax compliance, the filing of federal and state returns and payments. Payroll Services process, calculate, and produce employee paychecks for full-time and part-time employees.PRIMARY OBJECTIVEReporting to the Director-Payroll the Payroll Analyst - General ensures the accurate and timely processing of payroll for all employees, performing payroll functions to include data reconciliation, detailed statistical reporting, and comprehensive analysis of retiree benefit programs. The Payroll Analyst - General also ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while adhering to internal policies and collective bargaining agreements. Performs related duties as required.ESSENTIAL DUTIESPayroll AdministrationAudits and verifies special assignment hours to ensure accuracy and compliance with institutional policies.Reconciles discrepancies between Certificate of Attendance (COA) forms, payroll records, and WORKFORCE/Time & Labor systems.Processes payroll adjustments, ensuring all entries align with established payroll scheduleCompliance & ReportingEnsures compliance with internal policies, collective bargaining agreements, and federal/state regulations governing payroll practices.Prepares comprehensive reports for internal audits, management reviews, and union negotiations.Monitors and implements changes to payroll laws or institutional policies impacting payroll operations.Collaboration & CommunicationPartners with HR, department heads, and timekeepers to address payroll discrepancies and maintain data integrity.Provides training to campus payroll personnel and new analysts.Communicates effectively with employees and management to resolve payroll-related inquiries.Data Reconciliation & AnalysisReconciles payroll data across WorkForce, Time & Labor, and other systems to maintain accuracy.Assists in developing performance metrics, customer satisfaction surveys, and improvement initiatives for the HR Payroll team.Documentation & TrainingDocuments business processes, draft procedural guides, and create training materials.Keeps up to date with rule changes and best practices in payroll administration.Additional DutiesAssists in managing HR accounts payable functions, including requisitions and purchase orders.Performs general payroll audits, mathematical computations, and system data entry as needed.Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Payroll.Adheres to CCC’s Customer Service Excellence standards.QUALIFICATIONSAssociate’s degree from an accredited college or university required, preferably in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related fieldPayroll certification (e.g., CPP or FPC) preferredAt least three years of experience in payroll, accounting, or auditing required, preferably within a higher education or public sector environmentAn equivalent combination of education and experience may be taken into considerationExperience and familiarity with payroll software and systems (e.g. PeopleSoft (Oracle) Human Capital Management System, WorkForce, or similar) is highly preferredExcellent attention to detail, with the ability to manage large volumes of data with accuracy and efficiencyStrong verbal and written communication skillsExcellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environmentExcellent customer service and problem-solving skillsAbility and willingness to work occasional extended hours during peak payroll periods or special payroll projectsAbility to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive payroll data in compliance with privacy standards and legal requirementsAbility to work both independently and as part of a collaborative teamAbility to interact effectively with employees, organizational leadership, and external parties as neededProficiency in Microsoft Office 365 (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)INDHP#ZRAltaStaff is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants for employment without regard to age, race, color, creed, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other protected status, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.