Job Title
HR/Payroll Specialist (Exempt)
About CAAT
Central Academy of Arts and Technology (CAAT) is a vibrant charter school dedicated to delivering inclusive, high-quality education through innovative arts and tech-integrated learning. We foster a welcoming community where every staff member contributes to building a dynamic, student-centered learning environment.
Position Overview
The HR/Payroll Specialist plays a critical role in managing the charter school's human resources and payroll functions. This exempt (salaried) position is responsible for smooth onboarding of staff, accurate maintenance of employee records, administration of classified staff schedules, and timely payroll processing. The role demands strong organizational skills, high attention to detail, and the ability to ensure compliance with employment and compensation regulations.
Key ResponsibilitiesOnboarding & Employee Records
- Coordinate and facilitate onboarding for all new employees, including collecting documentation, verifying credentials, initiating background checks, entering data into HRIS, and conducting new hire orientation.
- Maintain and update comprehensive employee files (electronic and paper), ensuring accuracy, completeness, and strict confidentiality.
- Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations (e.g., I-9, W-4 forms, TB clearances, fingerprinting and required annual trainings).
- Manage substitite coverage for classified and credentialed staff.
Classified Staff Scheduling
- Manage scheduling and classification of classified employees (e.g., aides, cafe staff), aligning with board-approved assignments and ensuring adherence to labor agreements and school policies.
- Update and maintain accurate staffing rosters and coordination with instructional and administrative teams.
Payroll Processing
- In collaboration with a back office provider/payroll service, prepare and process payroll with precision on a regular cadence (e.g., biweekly or semimonthly), ensuring all earnings, deductions, and benefits are properly calculated.
- Collaborate with CEO and back office to reconcile payroll registers, tax filings, and benefit contributions.
- Handle employee inquiries regarding payroll, offering timely and professional support.
Compliance & Reporting
- Collaborate with back office provider to ensure all required employee documents are accurate and properly submitted
- Ensure required HR/payroll reports are submitted accurately and on time.
- Assist with internal and external audits as needed.
Collaboration and Process Improvement
- Serve as the primary liaison between the school and back office payroll team.
- Identify opportunities to streamline workflows and enhance HR/payroll processes, including through automation and system improvements.
- Support the school with general administrative functions as needed.
- Support other areas of accounting and finance at the direction of the CEO.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field preferred; or equivalent work experience.
- Minimum 2–3 years of experience in payroll or HR administration—preferably in a school, charter organization, or nonprofit environment.
Technical Skills
- Proficiency with payroll systems or HRIS software preferred
- Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel and general office applications.
- Understanding of payroll compliance, tax filings, and HR recordkeeping.
Personal Competencies
- Excellent organizational ability, attention to detail, and strong ethical standards.
- Clear communication skills, both oral and written.
- Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
- A collaborative team player who can interact effectively across departments.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $69,000.00 - $72,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Ability to Commute:
- Bakersfield, CA 93301 (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Bakersfield, CA 93301: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person