Discover rewarding Payroll Technician II jobs, a critical mid-level role within finance and human resources departments. Professionals in this position are the operational backbone of an organization's payroll function, ensuring every employee is paid accurately and on time. A Payroll Technician II typically operates under general supervision, handling a complex array of confidential payroll and personnel transactions with a high degree of technical expertise and independence. This career path is ideal for detail-oriented individuals who thrive on precision, problem-solving, and upholding strict regulatory compliance. The core responsibility of a Payroll Technician II is the end-to-end processing of payroll for a diverse employee population. This involves calculating wages, salaries, overtime, and special payments across various pay schedules (e.g., bi-weekly, monthly, academic year). They meticulously process employment status changes, including hires, promotions, leaves of absence, and separations, ensuring all data flows correctly to affect pay. A significant part of the role involves administering complex deductions and adjustments, such as tax withholdings, retirement contributions, garnishments, union dues, and benefits premiums. Furthermore, these technicians are often tasked with managing timekeeping data, calculating accrued leave (vacation, sick time), and processing various types of paid and unpaid leave. Beyond processing, Payroll Technician II jobs demand strong analytical and customer service skills. Technicians serve as a key resource for employees and managers, troubleshooting pay discrepancies, answering inquiries related to pay policies, and interpreting collective bargaining agreements. They ensure strict adherence to a web of federal, state, and local labor laws, as well as internal company policies. Maintaining data integrity within the Human Resources Information System (HRIS) or payroll software is paramount, requiring regular audits and reconciliations. Their work often involves close collaboration with HR, accounting, and external agencies. Typical requirements for these roles include a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers preferring some college coursework in accounting or business. Candidates generally need 2-4 years of direct payroll processing experience. Proficiency with payroll software (e.g., PeopleSoft, ADP, Workday), Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel), and a solid understanding of payroll tax fundamentals are standard expectations. Successful Payroll Technicians II possess exceptional numerical accuracy, organizational skills to manage competing deadlines, and discreet professionalism when handling sensitive information. Strong communication abilities, both written and verbal, are essential for explaining complex pay issues clearly. For those with a knack for numbers and a commitment to accuracy, Payroll Technician II jobs offer a stable and vital career with opportunities for advancement into senior payroll or accounting positions.
