Job Details

Payroll Technician

Position Number: 6470662
Location: Ukiah, CA
Position Type: Business - Accounting

Payroll Technician

Salary: $4,804.00 - $5,044.00 Monthly
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Job Number: 2025-CLASS-PAYROLL
Closing: 9/21/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Location: Ukiah, CA
Department: Business Services

DESCRIPTION

Mendocino-Lake Community College District is currently accepting applications for a Payroll Technician to work in our business services department.

This is a full-time, Classified position, 40 hours per week, 12 months a year.

We are seeking an equity-minded person who is committed to supporting our diverse student population and the District Mission. Please review our District Mission, Goals, and Values at the following website: MLCCD - Mission, Goals and Values.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Under the direction of the department manager, the Payroll Technician analyzes, prepares, maintains, and verifies all fiscal records and supporting documents related to the processing of District payroll for all employee groups. The position is responsible for analyzing, computing, and processing employee health benefits and standard payroll deductions, including processing the payments of all employee payroll deductions as required. Employees in this classification receive limited supervision within a framework of standard policies and procedures. This job class is responsible for exercising judgment and problem solving in the analysis, preparation, and processing of all payroll functions within strictly defined timelines. This job class functions as the lead position within Payroll and requires specialized technical knowledge of District policies, IRS and EDD payroll laws and reporting requirements, Education Code, Labor Code, Public Employees' Retirement Systems, and collective bargaining contracts. Employees in this position must maintain a high degree of confidentiality.

We recommend downloading this job announcement as you prepare your application materials for submission. Incomplete applications will not be forwarded to the screening committee.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE Through this online portal submit the following documents:

Completed online application
Resume
A cover letter that succinctly addresses how your experience and professional qualifications prepare you for this position
Contact information for 3 professional references (no letters please; letters submitted will not be reviewed by the screening committee)
Copies of applicable transcripts
Be prepared to answer the following supplemental question during the supplemental questions of the application: If you are selected for this position, how will you demonstrate commitment to student & institutional success?

Mendocino College welcomes applications from all qualified candidates who demonstrate sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgrounds of our community college students.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Salary Range (27): The starting monthly salary range is $4,804 - $5,044. There are seven annual step movements; initial placement will be at step 1, unless approved by the Superintendent/President.

Please see the current salary schedule here: MLCCD - Salary Schedule

Benefits: With no monthly premium contribution from the employee, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes family medical, dental, vision, EAP benefits and employee life insurance. Additional voluntary life insurance is available for employee purchase. Benefits are effective the first of the month following hire date.

Holidays and Paid Time Off: The successful candidate will earn twelve (12) days of vacation and twelve (12) days of sick leave per year. Vacation leave increases with the length of service. There are twenty-one (21) paid holidays annually.

Retirement: This position is eligible for CalPERS Retirement.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

The successful candidate will support student and institutional success by executing the following duties:

Processes hourly and salaried computerized payroll for faculty, classified, management, confidential, temporary, and student employees.
Calculates pay for short-term and student employees based on timesheets and change forms.
Reconciles and prepares payroll payment of District-paid employees.
For all employees, enters salary, budget, and payroll code information into computer from change forms, salary input forms, and part-time faculty salary reports, along with information regarding W-4's, voluntary deductions, TSA's, health benefits, retirement benefits, IRS 125 plan, payroll taxes, and garnishments.
Runs a prelist report and proofs it for accuracy pursuant to audit requirements; delivers to the county office of education for final auditing and check printing; receives checks from the county office of education and distributes them to employees.
Maintains vacation and sick leave records; processes employment verifications and other requests for payroll information; prepares correcting journal entries as needed.
Interprets and implements payroll rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
Assures payroll compliance by participating in on going professional development
Prepares and maintains a wide variety of payroll-related documents and materials (e.g. time cards, withholding information, personnel action forms, employee contributions, retirement contributions, etc.).
Maintains all records and reports related to the final payroll calculation and all associated reports for each payroll.
Develops query reports for District staff as requested.
Coordinates with Human Resources on worker's compensation reimbursements and salary offsets.
Coordinates with County Office of Education to develop complex queries and payroll reports.
Analyzes annual payroll; reconciles and prepares W2's at end of each calendar year.
Analyzes and prepares monthly standard journal entries, charging various funds for payroll and benefits costs as directed by the Director of Business Services.
Serves as information source to employees, administration, insurance carriers, and others regarding District payroll processing procedures, requirements, and standards.
Researches information and provides input to the Administration on a variety of payroll related matters; prepares reports and correspondence as needed.
Coordinates and manages specialized functions and projects independently.
Prepares payroll contribution reports to verify accurate reporting of employee service to pension plans.
Creates and maintains deduction codes associated with PERS, STRS, and miscellaneous benefits.
Works cooperatively and collaboratively with Human Resources staff to test changes to the integrated software system, ensure functionality, and prevent negative impacts on other departments.
Trains and instructs staff in established methods and procedures.
Establishes, schedules, and prioritizes assigned Payroll projects and activities.
Performs other related duties similar to the above in scope and function as required.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL STANDARDS:
The following physical and mental standards are identified as necessary to perform the essential duties and responsibilities. However, reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Mobility: frequent sitting for long periods; frequent walking and standing; occasional reaching above and below desk level; frequent balancing on varied surfaces.
Dexterity: frequent fine manipulation sufficient to operate a computer keyboard; frequent grasping to handle individual papers, write/take notes and feel individual objects.
Lifting: frequent lifting of papers, files, equipment and material weighing up to 15 pounds; may lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
Visual Requirements: frequent use of vision sufficient to read files, documents, and computer screens and do close-up work.
Hearing/Talking: frequent hearing and speaking in person and on the telephone.
Emotional/Psychological Factors: frequent need to make decisions and concentrate; frequent contact with others; frequent deadlines and time-limited assignments.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
Office environment; subject to interruptions and distractions.

QUALIFICATIONS

Must meet Human Resources guidelines for qualified hiring; including but not limited to a Live Scan background check and completion of TB Test.

Sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, geographic and ethnic backgrounds of students, staff, and faculty.
PREFERRED QUALIFCATIONS:
AA/AS Degree
Experience in a responsible position having increasingly difficult payroll, bookkeeping, and/or auditing responsibilities.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

Methods, practices, terminology, and procedures used in Payroll administration.
Education or governmental payroll, retirement systems, group health plans, and applicable laws and regulations.
Federal and state laws, codes, and regulations concerning Payroll administration.
Research methods, reporting, writing, and proof-reading techniques.
Verbal and written communication skills; correct usage of English, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary.
Interpersonal communication skills using tact, patience, and courtesy.
Applicable sections of District policies, bargaining unit agreements, laws, codes, rules, and policies affecting the processing and reporting of payroll activities.
Current technologies, personal computer, and associated software, such as word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and/or database software.
Financial record keeping and accounting principles, methods, and practices for payroll processing.

ABILITY TO:

Learn District, Federal, State, and County policies, procedures, and regulations related to assigned payroll functions.
Assemble, organize, and analyze data in an effective and useful manner.
Understand and carry out a variety of complex directions with limited supervision.
Establish and maintain accurate payroll records and prepare accurate financial and statistical summaries and reports.
Perform mathematical calculations accurately and rapidly.
Apply rules and regulations accurately to complex, unique, novel, and context-specific cases.
Exercise critical thinking to quickly identify problem areas or situations, isolate causes, propose solutions, and take appropriate action to resolve problems identified.
Organize and prioritize assigned work tasks to meet strict timelines.
Operate a variety of standard office machines and equipment such as computer, adding machine, copier, fax, and other technologies.
Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms.
Learn from errors, determine appropriate corrective action, and prevent repeated occurrences.
Establish and maintain cooperative and effective work relationships with other, including those from diverse academic, socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, and disability backgrounds.
Work closely with H.R. staff to streamline processes and test new procedures.
Be flexible while working with others in a wide variety of circumstances and time constraints.
Research and use publications and resources related to payroll laws and Ed Code.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

IMPORTANT NOTES REGARDING APPLICATION PROCEDURE

All application materials must be received by 11:59 pm on the closing date indicated above

Only completed applications with the above required documents will be reviewed by the committee

Application materials not required (including reference letters) for this position will not be reviewed

Remove personally identifiable information such as personal photos, social security number, birth date, age, and gender from your application materials.

Expenses related to the recruitment process are the responsibility of the applicant

Incomplete application packets will not be accepted

Interviews are by invitation only

The college does not reimburse applicants for related travel expenses

SELECTION PROCEDURE

A search committee will review and invite applicants for an interview. Meeting the posted requirements does not guarantee an interview. A written performance exercise and/or presentation may be a part of the interview, and finalists may be invited to return for a second interview. All notifications will be via email, and by accessing your application profile.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT(Prior to beginning employment)

In accordance with Federal Law all employees must provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States;
Must be fingerprinted through DOJ and FBI and have background clearance; and Must take a TB test (once hired and every four years thereafter).
Within 6 months of employment, must complete required District trainings such as Sexual Harassment Prevention.
Mendocino-Lake Community College District is not authorized to sponsor employment visas and be the employer of record for F-1 Visa - OPT extension

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

The Mendocino-Lake Community College District is committed to employing qualified administrators, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to student success and to recruiting and hiring persons from diverse backgrounds. Diversity in the academic environment fosters cultural awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students including first generation students, underrepresented students, and students of color. The District strives to employ and retain faculty, staff and administrative personnel who promote a positive learning environment and are well prepared to serve our increasingly diverse student population.

Mendocino College takes active steps to ensure equal employment opportunity and to create a diverse work and academic environment that is welcoming and inclusive for all.

Mendocino-Lake Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

EEO STATEMENT

Mendocino College is an equal opportunity employer and actively seeks a diverse pool of qualified applicants. The policy of the College is to encourage applications from all persons. Mendocino College does not discriminate on the basis of ethnicity or race, color, sex or gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, medical conditions, genetic conditions, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, and medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth), military or veteran status. Mendocino College also prohibits harassment on any of these bases, including sexual harassment, as well as sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Persons with disabilities who require reasonable accommodation to complete the employment process must notify Human Resources no later than 72 hours prior to the closing date. Human Resources can be contacted at (707) 468-3065 or via email at HRRecruiting@mendocino.edu.

ABOUT OUR COLLEGE

Established in 1973, Mendocino College, a Hispanic Serving Institution, is a vibrant and inclusive academic community, rich in culture, creativity, diversity, and technology. A fully accredited two- year community college, the District serves more than 6,500 students across four locations in the greater parts of Lake and Mendocino Counties. Complete with a friendly small-campus academic setting and a respectfully collaborative work environment, Mendocino College prepares students for a future of innovation and success.

The beautifully landscaped main campus is located in Ukiah, California. With views of oak- covered hills, sprawling vineyards, and distant mountains, the 127-acre campus is equipped with a state-of-the-art Library/Learning Center, high-tech Nursing Facility, and Student Center. The college operates three fully equipped centers in Fort Bragg, Lakeport, and Willits, conveniently providing our valued students with quality instruction, academic support and administrative services in neighboring communities.

With a comprehensive curriculum and engaging instruction, Mendocino College provides a wide variety of degree, certificate, transfer, occupational, and basic skills programs. Mendocino College students learn in a nurturing and supportive environment enhanced by small-sized classes, personalized academic advising, and several hundred dedicated faculty and staff.

ABOUT OUR COMMUNITIES

Mendocino and Lake Counties include some of California's most picturesque landscape. Because of the geographic location, climate, and natural beauty, Mendocino and Lake Counties attract many visitors. Agriculture, timber, and tourism industries form the economic base of the area with some light manufacturing. Mendocino and Lake Counties have a long and colorful history as a premium grape-growing region within the state's famous North Coast wine country. A relaxed and friendly lifestyle is characteristic of our communities. Recreational opportunities abound for water skiing, swimming, fishing, boating, sailing, camping, hiking, tennis, and golf.

Check out the local visitor guides to find out more: https://apptrkr.com/get_redirect.php?id=6470662&targetURL=.

ABOUT OUR COLLEGE

Established in 1973, Mendocino College, a Hispanic Serving Institution, is a vibrant and inclusive academic community, rich in culture, creativity, diversity, and technology. A fully accredited two- year community college, the District serves more than 6,500 students across four locations in the greater parts of Lake and Mendocino Counties. Complete with a friendly small-campus academic setting and a respectfully collaborative work environment, Mendocino College prepares students for a future of innovation and success.

The beautifully landscaped main campus is located in Ukiah, California. With views of oak- covered hills, sprawling vineyards, and distant mountains, the 127-acre campus is equipped with a state-of-the-art Library/Learning Center, high-tech Nursing Facility, and Student Center. The college operates three fully equipped centers in Fort Bragg, Lakeport, and Willits, conveniently providing our valued students with quality instruction, academic support and administrative services in neighboring communities.

With a comprehensive curriculum and engaging instruction, Mendocino College provides a wide variety of degree, certificate, transfer, occupational, and basic skills programs. Mendocino College students learn in a nurturing and supportive environment enhanced by small-sized classes, personalized academic advising, and several hundred dedicated faculty and staff.

ABOUT OUR COMMUNITIES

Mendocino and Lake Counties include some of California's most picturesque landscape. Because of the geographic location, climate, and natural beauty, Mendocino and Lake Counties attract many visitors. Agriculture, timber, and tourism industries form the economic base of the area with some light manufacturing. Mendocino and Lake Counties have a long and colorful history as a premium grape-growing region within the state's famous North Coast wine country. A relaxed and friendly lifestyle is characteristic of our communities. Recreational opportunities abound for water skiing, swimming, fishing, boating, sailing, camping, hiking, tennis, and golf.

Check out the local visitor guides to find out more: https://www.visitmendocino.com/ & https://www.lakecounty.com/

To apply, visit https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/mendocinoedu/jobs/5044192/payroll-technician