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Payroll Services Manager

University of Arkansas

University of Arkansas

Accounting & Finance
Fayetteville, AR, USA
USD 54k-56k / year
Posted on Oct 31, 2025

Current University of Arkansas System employees, including student employees and graduate assistants, need to log in to Workday via MyApps.Microsoft.com, then access Find Jobs from the Workday search bar to view and apply for open positions. Students at University of Arkansas System two-year institutions will also view open positions and apply within Workday by searching for “Find Jobs for Students”.

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If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application process will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through “My Draft Applications” located on your Candidate Home page.


Closing Date:


Type of Position:

Professional Staff - Project/Program Administration


Workstudy Position:

No


Job Type:

Regular


Work Shift:

Day Shift (United States of America)


Sponsorship Available:

No


Institution Name:

University of Arkansas at Fort Smith

University of Arkansas – Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that’s redefining higher education. We’re on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. We’re committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas’s rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state’s varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.


Department:

HR Administration


Department's Website:


Summary of Job Duties:

The Payroll Services Manager is responsible for all tasks related to the accurate and timely processing of two (2) semimonthly regular and two (2) semimonthly arrears payrolls each month, production of W2s, reporting requirements for federal and state(s) entities, and oversight of internal procedures. This position is governed by federal and state laws and regulations and institutional policies. ​ The position reports to ​the Associate Director of Human Resources​.


Qualifications:

Summary of Job Duties:

  • ​​Oversee the preparation and processing of semimonthly regular and arrears payrolls for all employees ensuring accurate calculation of payment.

  • ​Ensure compliance with all federal, state and local tax laws, wage and hour regulations, and system policies. Prepare and file annual W-2 filings.

  • ​Oversee the accurate setup and processing of all deductions including benefit premiums, 401(k) contributions, wage garnishments, and other pre/post-tax items.

  • ​Supervise, mentor, evaluate, and provide training to payroll specialist.

  • ​Serve as primary point of contact for employee questions regarding paychecks, deductions, W-2s, and timekeeping providing exceptional and confidential customer service.

  • ​Develop, document, and implement efficient payroll policies and procedures to optimize operations and strengthen internal controls.

  • ​Manage the completion of employment onboarding tasks for new and current employees to ensure compliance with state and federal laws and regulations to include work authorization

  • Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and by providing leadership to subordinates.

  • Requires consistent on-time attendance.

  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Education and/or Work Experience: ​​Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education; at least three years of experience in payroll services; and at least one year of supervisory experience.​ Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for part of these requirements. ​

Preferred Education and/or Work Experience: ​Bachelor’s degree in business administration, human resources, or accounting; at least five years of experience in payroll services; experience with Workday or other payroll/HCM platform(s); and at least two years of experience working in an institution of higher education. ​

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: To perform the job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:

  • ​​Knowledge of state and federal payroll reporting requirements

  • ​Knowledge of supervisory practices and techniques

  • ​Ability to establish, maintain and process payroll and associated reports

  • ​Ability to supervise payroll staff

  • ​Ability to provide assistance to university employees concerning payroll activities

  • ​Ability to structure work efficiently

  • ​Solid analytical skills

  • ​Strong organizational and task management skills

  • ​Strong written and oral communication skills

  • ​Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including complex formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis for payroll processing​

Working Relationships: ​The Payroll Services Manager has frequent contact with university employees and departments, personnel from other state agencies and institutions, University of Arkansas System employees, and the general public. ​

List Employees Supervised: ​Payroll Services Specialist​

Special Job Dimensions: ​​Work performed primarily in an office setting. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly exhibits digital dexterity when entering data into computer. The employee frequently sits for extended periods of time, and occasionally stands and walks. Vision demands include close, relatively detailed vision when focusing on a computer screen. Employee regularly talks and hears. Employee occasionally lifts items up to 50 pounds. ​Routine work schedule Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm with occasional overtime and travel required​

Background Check Requirements. ​Criminal and Financial Background Check and Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) Check.​

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, and/or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.


Additional Information:


Salary Information:

$54,000 - $56,000


Required Documents to Apply:

Cover Letter/Letter of Application, List of three Professional References (name, email, business title), Resume, Unofficial/Official Transcript(s)


Optional Documents:


Special Instructions to Applicants:


Recruitment Contact Information:

HR
479-788-7080


All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site https://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.


Pre-employment Screening Requirements:

Child Maltreatment, Criminal Background Check, Financial Credit Check, Motor Vehicle Reports Check

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and/or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of any category or status protected by law, including age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, or pregnancy. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University’s Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.


Constant Physical Activity:

N/A


Frequent Physical Activity:

N/A


Occasional Physical Activity:

N/A


Benefits Eligible:

Yes