Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for performing and coordinating all payroll functions for the Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority (VIPFA) and the Office of Disaster Recovery (ODR). This position ensures accurate and timely processing of employee compensation, benefits deductions, and payroll reporting. The Payroll Specialist also assists with audits, reconciliations, and compliance with the Government of the Virgin Islands (GVI) and agency policies.

• Prepare and process biweekly payroll for all VIPFA and ODR employees.
• Verify employee time submissions, pay rates, and deductions before final processing.
• Enter payroll data into Business Central/Great Plains (GP) and reconcile payroll accounts.
• Submit payroll to the third-party processor (Frost Co) for payment and recordkeeping.
• Maintain and update employee payroll records for new hires, transfers, and separations.

• Process employee benefits deductions, including health, retirement, and other with holdings.
• Prepare and transmit biweekly GERS uploads and reports; ensure timely contribution payments.
• Verify benefit adjustments, retroactive payments, and leave payouts for accuracy.
• Coordinate with the Human Resources Manager to ensure alignment of payroll and benefit data.

• Reconcile payroll general ledger accounts and verify accounting entries.
• Assist auditors by preparing payroll records, reports, and documentation requests.
• Generate biweekly, monthly, and annual payroll reports as required for management or auditors.
• Review and ensure compliance with federal, territorial, and GVI payroll regulations.

• Serve as primary point of contact for vendors, GERS, Department of Personnel, and other government entities.
• Maintain accurate electronic and physical payroll files in accordance with retention requirements.
• Respond to inquiries from GERS, the Department of Personnel, and other agencies regarding payroll.
• Prepare wage reports and other payroll-related documents.

• Assist the Comptroller and Director of Finance with budget forecasting related to payroll costs.
• Support reconciliation of payroll-related vendor payments, including insurance and benefits.
• Review and process corrections, retroactive adjustments, and special payments.

• Assist with HR-related data entry and employee onboarding documentation.
• Support the Finance and HR departments in maintaining the confidentiality of all payroll information.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned by the Director or Comptroller.

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Office Management, Accounting, or a related field.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in payroll administration, accounting, or HR support.
• An equivalent combination of experience, education, and/or training may be substituted for the listed minimum requirements.

• Comprehensive knowledge of office management procedures, payroll processing, and recordkeeping
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting/payroll software such as Business Central or Great Plains.
• Thorough understanding of payroll principles, deductions, and tax compliance.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and confidentiality.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

This position reports directly to the Comptroller and works under general supervision. Work is reviewed for accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with established policies and procedures.

The employee must be able to lift up to 20 pounds, sit for extended periods, bend, stoop, and reach overhead. Must have adequate vision to review detailed documents and operate a computer for long periods.

Work is performed in a standard office environment. The noise level is usually moderate. Work is performed in an office setting. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those employee encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. The noise level in the work environment is usually average.

This position is located at the Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority Office: 5033 Kongens Gade, Government Hill, St. Thomas, VI 00802.

A competitive benefits package is provided, including Government of the Virgin Islands health insurance, paid leave, retirement plan participation, and opportunities for continuing education.

The Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer