Title: Temporary Payroll Administrator
VP Area: CFO
Department: Accounting Services
Position Compensation: $23.00 - $30.00 / hour
Location: University Campus - St. Paul, Minnesota

Who We Are:
Northwestern is a faith-driven community, UNWavering in our Christ-centered principles and identity as those who profess faith in Jesus. Rooted in the unshakable foundation of God’s Word and our calling to impact His world, our mission and vision flow from these core values, expressed through Christ-centered higher education at the University of Northwestern – St. Paul and through gospel outreach and faithfulness with Northwestern Media.

POSITION SUMMARY
The Temporary Payroll Administrator supports the end‑to‑end processing of bi‑weekly payroll and related tax filings, ensuring timely, accurate, and compliant payroll operations. This position partners closely with HR and Finance to maintain high‑quality service and respond to employee payroll inquiries.

The full-time, temporary position is anticipated to run approximately from early May through mid‑October, depending on the timing of the incumbent’s return from leave. The preferred work location is our Roseville, MN office; however, hybrid or remote arrangements may be considered.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Payroll Processing: Administer bi‑weekly payroll in Ellucian Banner, including processing timesheets and adjustments, validating payroll accuracy, generating payroll registers, transmitting direct deposit files, and coordinating check printing and distribution.
• Tax Compliance: Remit federal and multi‑state tax withholdings in accordance with regulatory deadlines and organizational procedures.
• Regulatory Filing: Prepare and file required payroll tax documents, including IRS 941 returns, unemployment insurance filings, and workers’ compensation reports for monopolistic states.
• Employee Support: Respond to payroll‑related employee inquiries, providing timely and accurate information with support from existing HR and payroll staff as needed.
• Perform other duties as requested or assigned.

Because our community is a significant part of our mission and the development of our students and listeners, all employees serve as ministers of the gospel of Jesus Christ by actively partnering with the University to disciple students as they grow intellectually and spiritually, and with Northwestern Media to lead people to Christ and nurture believers to maturity in their faith.

QUALIFICATIONS
Required:

• Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field or equivalent experience
• Minimum 1 year experience with multi-state payroll administration, tax compliance reporting, and filing requirements
• Maintain a growing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ, reflect His character in all interactions, and faithfully uphold and embrace Northwestern’s mission, Doctrinal Statement and Declaration of Christian Community

Nice to Have:

• Experience preparing or supporting IRS 941, state unemployment filings, or workers’ compensation reporting
• Experience in a higher-education, non-profit, or public-sector payroll environment
• Experience with Ellucian Banner or payroll systems commonly used in higher education or complex organizations
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation
  
  

KEY SKILLS

• Independent & Teamwork: Capable of working both independently and collaboratively, with minimal supervision.
• Attention to Detail: Demonstrated ability to accurately review, verify, and reconcile payroll data, swiftly identify discrepancies and ensure high levels of precision in all work.
• Confidentiality: Maintains discretion and handles sensitive information appropriately.
• Organizational Skills: Strong time management and problem-solving abilities; able to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Technical Proficiency: Intermediate to advanced computer skills, including Microsoft Office and related software.
• Written & Verbal Communication: Strong writing, editing, proofreading, and verbal communication skills.
• Background Check: Must pass initial and ongoing background checks as a condition of employment.
  
  

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment involves working for a suburban, Christian university or Christian owned and operated radio station alongside those with a demonstrated commitment and personal relationship with Jesus Christ, a commitment to the mission and values of Northwestern, and an agreement to abide by all Northwestern policies.

Northwestern's Benefits Overview