Payroll Administrator (Arizona - Phoenix or Tucson based)
At a glance
Mid-level Payroll role at AMS Schools. Tempe · full-time · $60,000–$80,000 base.
hrroles summary, based on the employer's posting.
What you'll do
- Run biweekly payroll for assigned employee groups in Workday, including stipends, bonuses and other additional payments
- Check time records and employee payroll changes, then correct discrepancies and prepare manual checks when needed
- Balance payroll reports each cycle, investigate pay problems and maintain records for audits and year-end reporting
- Answer employee payroll questions and work with HR and Benefits to resolve deduction, benefit and data issues
- Help test payroll system updates and improve processes with finance, HR and school teams
What you bring
- You have four to six years of progressive payroll experience, including high-volume work across multiple states
- You hold at least an associate degree in accounting, business, HR, finance or a related field
- You bring strong payroll knowledge, including wage rules, taxes, deductions and compliance requirements
- You can use Microsoft Office, including Excel at an intermediate level
Who this fits
This role suits an experienced payroll administrator who can handle detailed, deadline-driven work and support employees with care. It is a hybrid position based in Tucson or Tempe, Arizona, and applicants must live in Arizona. Occasional overtime may be needed during payroll runs, year-end work or special projects.
From the employer
We're excited to provide the best education in the best environment to our students!
Payroll Administrator
Reports to: Controller, Shared Services
Location: Hybrid – Tucson, AZ / Tempe, AZ
*NO Out of State applicants will be considered for this role.
Employment Classification: Full-Time
Salary Range: $60,000 – $80,000 annually, based on experience
Position Summary
AMS Impact Group is seeking a detail-oriented and service-focused Payroll Administrator to support payroll operations across a growing network of schools and educational organizations. This position is responsible for processing payroll, maintaining payroll records, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations, and providing exceptional support to employees regarding payroll-related matters.
The ideal candidate has experience managing high-volume payroll in a multi-state environment, possesses strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative workplace. This role plays a critical part in ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time while supporting the organization's commitment to operational excellence.
About AMS Impact Group
AMS Impact Group is the management organization supporting Academies of Math and Science (AMS), a network of high-performing public charter schools serving nearly 10,000 students across Arizona and Arkansas. Our mission is to ensure every child has access to an exceptional education by providing operational, financial, talent, and strategic support to schools and educational organizations committed to student success.
Key Responsibilities
Payroll Processing & Administration
Process bi-weekly payroll for assigned employee groups utilizing Workday Payroll.
Review and approve employee self-service payroll changes within Workday.
Validate employee hours and payroll data through time and attendance systems.
Process stipends, bonuses, supplemental earnings, and other ad hoc payments.
Prepare and process manual payroll checks when necessary.
Monitor payroll transactions to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
Payroll Reconciliation & Reporting
Complete payroll reconciliations and balance payroll reports each pay cycle.
Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies and employee pay issues.
Generate payroll reports, audits, and analyses for internal stakeholders.
Maintain accurate payroll records and supporting documentation.
Assist with year-end payroll activities, tax reporting, and audits.
Employee Support & Compliance
Serve as a resource for employees regarding payroll-related questions and concerns.
Monitor and respond to Payroll Helpdesk inquiries in a timely manner.
Partner with Human Resources and Benefits teams to resolve payroll deductions, benefit elections, and employee data discrepancies.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws.
Maintain confidentiality and security of employee payroll information.
Process Improvement & Collaboration
Support payroll process improvements and system enhancements.
Assist with testing and implementation of payroll-related system updates.
Collaborate with finance, human resources, and school-based teams to ensure seamless payroll operations.
Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.
Required Qualifications
Education & Experience
Minimum of an Associate's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Human Resources, Finance, or a related field; Bachelor's degree preferred.
Four (4) to six (6) years of progressive payroll experience required.
Experience processing payroll in a high-volume, multi-state environment required.
Experience utilizing Workday Payroll and reporting tools preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
Strong knowledge of payroll processing, wage and hour laws, payroll taxes, and deductions.
Understanding of federal, state, and local payroll compliance requirements.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including intermediate Excel skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive information.
Strong customer service mindset with the ability to effectively support employees and stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications
Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation preferred.
Experience supporting payroll operations for educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, or multi-location organizations.
Experience with HRIS, payroll, and timekeeping system integrations.
Experience working in a shared services environment.
Working Conditions
Hybrid work environment with a combination of remote and in-office responsibilities.
Extended periods of sitting and computer work.
Frequent communication with employees, managers, and external vendors.
Occasional overtime may be required during payroll processing periods, year-end activities, or special projects.
Benefits
Competitive salary based on experience
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Life and Disability Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
Paid Time Off and Holidays
Professional Development Opportunities
Hybrid Work Environment
Why Join AMS Impact Group?
Mission-driven organization focused on educational excellence and equity.
Opportunity to make a meaningful impact supporting schools and students.
Collaborative and growth-oriented culture.
Career advancement opportunities within a growing organization.
Work alongside talented professionals dedicated to operational excellence.
Join us to enjoy rewarding challenges and ongoing opportunities!