Payroll Specialist I

This position coordinates and oversees payroll processes for the institution and affiliated agencies.

  • 521919
  • Manhattan, Kansas, United States
  • Division of Financial Services
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Regular)
  • Closing at: Oct 4 2026 - 23:55 CDT
  • Hybrid eligible
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About This Role

This position coordinates and oversees payroll processes for the institution and affiliated agencies. The incumbent is responsible for the accurate, timely and complete processing of the 26 on-cycle and the various off-cycle (supplemental) payrolls and adjustments required to be completed that ensures adherence to state pay policies and practices. This position provides excellent customer service, could develop, and deliver payroll-related training and recommends and implements process improvements and efficiencies.

Jobs & Responsibilities:

  • Process 26 on-cycle and supplemental payrolls for the university and affiliated agencies accurately and within established deadlines.
  • Balance payroll files and submit required information to the State of Kansas while resolving identified discrepancies.
  • Complete payroll transactions and changes in accordance with established policies, procedures, and deadlines.
  • Manage payroll-related functions, including payments as add pays, bonuses, travel, and moving expenses.
  • Administer garnishments, third-party payroll deductions, refunds, processing dues, and Tuition in Lieu of Salary.
  • Receive, respond to, and resolve employee payroll inquiries, questions, and issues.
  • Develop and deliver payroll training to employees
  • Contributes to the development, implementation, interpretation, and revision of payroll policies and procedures in alignment with institutional, state, and legal requirements.

About Us

The Division of Financial Services at Kansas State University supports the university's mission of teaching, research, and service by providing strategic financial leadership, stewardship, and operational excellence. As part of Kansas State University, our team partners with campus units to deliver high-quality services in shared services financial and budgeting support, accounting, financial reporting, procurement, travel, and compliance. We are committed to integrity, innovation, and continuous improvement, leveraging data, technology, and collaborative relationships to ensure responsible resource management and an exceptional service experience for the K-State community.

Worksite Description

This position is  Hybrid eligible.

This position is hybrid eligible; however, the first 90 days are required to be 100% on-site. After that period, hybrid eligibility may be granted based on individual performance, with a requirement of three days on-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Requires a high school diploma (or equivalent) and three years of relevant experience
  • Requirements may be met through a combination of education and experience

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of principles of accounting, statistics, audit practices and generally accepted accounting principles.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Excellent logical, analytical, and problem-solving skills with outstanding attention to detail.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgement, discretion, and tact in a professional setting.
  • Strong knowledge of tax and wage laws.
  • Strong computer literacy including Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

  • Cover letter
  • Resume 
  • Three professional references 

Application Window

Applications close on:  10/04/2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$20.30 - $21.55/hour

 

 

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.

Work Authorization and Sponsorship: 

Employees must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment. International candidates who require employer-sponsored work authorization are welcome to apply. Eligibility for visa sponsorship depends on several factors, including but not limited to, the job’s occupational requirements, specific duties, wage level, the candidate’s qualifications (such as degree field) and available departmental resources. As a result, not all positions or applicants will be eligible for sponsorship.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Remote and Hybrid work options:

Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements.  An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.

Relocation to Kansas: 

Kansas participates in the MakeMyMove program, which connects eligible newcomers with participating communities offering financial incentives, housing support, and local perks to help make your move easier and more rewarding. If relocating from outside of Kansas you can visit the site to apply online for the program incentives. 

Background Screening Statement:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

Interview Preferences:

Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.

The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.

*Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.

To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.