Payroll Administrator (Arizona - Phoenix or Tucson based)

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!