About Roanoke City Public Schools (RCPS)
Exciting things are happening at Roanoke City Public Schools (RCPS)—a district experiencing transformation, growth, and achievement. We invite you to be part of our journey!
At RCPS, we foster an inclusive, equitable, and student-centered learning environment that nurtures lifelong learning. Through engaging, relevant, and meaningful educational experiences, we empower all students to dream big, excel, and reach their full potential—benefiting both our community and its future. With state-of-the-art facilities and a team of highly qualified educators, we embrace the belief that “Together, We Are One!”
Who We Are
RCPS is an urban school division in Roanoke, Virginia, serving approximately 14,000 students across:
- 17 elementary schools
- 5 middle schools
- 2 high schools
- Specialized programs, including the Roanoke Valley Governor’s School for Science & Technology and two Career & Technical Education Centers
What We Value in Our Educators
Our teachers and administrators embody the following qualities:
- Passionate & Dedicated – Committed to student success and continuous improvement
- Creative & Effective – Bringing innovative and impactful teaching methods
- Compassionate & Nurturing – Understanding students’ evolving needs and fostering a supportive environment
- Collaborative & Open-Minded – Thriving in a culture of teamwork and adaptability
Join us at Roanoke City Public Schools and help shape the future—one student at a time!
Payroll Specialist – Job Overview
Roanoke City Public Schools (RCPS) is seeking a Payroll Specialist to join our team under the leadership of the Director of Payroll. This role is essential in fostering a positive and productive work environment, ensuring seamless payroll processing and benefits administration. The Payroll Specialist performs technical and administrative tasks related to payroll management, supporting school personnel and external agencies. Work is conducted under regular supervision.
This position is part of the RCPS Career Development Program, with four progressive levels:
- Payroll Specialist I
- Payroll Specialist II
- Payroll Specialist III
- Payroll Coordinator
The Payroll Specialist reports directly to the Director of Payroll.
Key Responsibilities
Duties include but are not limited to:
- Providing internal and external customer service and payroll support
- Processing semi-monthly payroll for 2,500+ employees
- Handling manual checks, voids, and reissued payments
- Managing payroll updates, including new hires, terminations, leave, deductions, and transfers
- Reviewing and processing timekeeping records
- Maintaining deduction balancing, including garnishments
- Preparing quarterly and year-end tax reports
- Processing electronic and check payments to employees and third parties
- Conducting salary and leave verifications upon request
- Training directors, principals, supervisors, and administrative staff on payroll processes
- Assisting with reporting, audits, and external payroll inquiries
- Reconciling and processing VRS retirement, life insurance, and other benefits
- Ensuring accurate record-keeping and compliance
- Performing additional duties as assigned
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong understanding of payroll processes, terminology, and best practices
- Ability to follow procedures, work independently, and meet deadlines
- Proficiency in mathematical calculations and data processing
- Skilled in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word), payroll software, and office technology
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
- Ability to collaborate effectively with staff, administrators, and external partners
Education & Experience Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Minimum two years of experience in payroll, benefits administration, bookkeeping, or employee communications
- Proficiency in spreadsheets, word processing, data management, and payroll systems
Physical & Work Environment
- Office-based role with prolonged periods at a computer
- Occasional travel to schools and city locations for training or meetings
- May require extended hours during peak payroll periods
- Frequent interaction with school administrators, employees, and external vendors
- Reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities
Join Roanoke City Public Schools and contribute to an efficient, employee-focused payroll system that supports the district’s mission!
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