Two weeks prior to the deadline to submit applications, the diversity of current applicants will be assessed. Upon review, if the pool does not include sufficient diversity at that time, the application window may be extended.
The Santa Clarita Community College District/College of the Canyons is seeking a
full-time Payroll Coordinator in the Business Services division.
Salary placement will be on
Range 47 of Classified Salary Schedule B.
Initial salary step placement for new employees is customarily at step 1, 2, or 3 ($7,346.00 / $7,794.00 / $8,238.00 per month) of this 20-step salary range.
Probationary period for new Classified Represented employees is
six months.
Work year is 12 calendar months. The
normal workweek for this position is
40 hours. Paid holiday, discretionary, and sick time are provided. Ten vacation days accrue during the first year of employment.
A regular work schedule will be assigned, with the ability to occasionally work a flexible schedule as needed with supervisor approval.
Who We Are
The Santa Clarita Community District is committed to achieving educational equity for all students. As presented in our District Strategic Plan, which focuses on Access, Engagement, and Success, “Equity, inclusion, and diversity are not goals in themselves, but ideologies embedded in all actions and planning across all departments and functions of our college and its two campuses.” These areas of focus demonstrate a resolve to focus on student success and confirm that we are at the forefront of change with integrated planning efforts that both evolve and anticipate the needs of our students. We provide students with a rich and dynamic learning experience that embraces differences – fostering healthy inclusion through inquiry, shared dialogue, and reflection to ensure that we promote a sense of community, collegiality, and cooperation. When you join our team at the Santa Clarita Community College District, you can expect to be part of an inclusive, creative, flexible, innovative, and equity-focused community that engages students, each other, and the community in scholarly inquiry, creative partnerships, and the application of knowledge and success.
Who We Want
We value the ability to serve students from a broad range of cultural heritages, socioeconomic backgrounds, genders, abilities, and orientations. Therefore, we prioritize applicants who demonstrate they understand the benefits diversity brings to a professional educational community. The successful candidate must be an equity-minded individual committed to collaborating with faculty, classified staff, administration, students, and community partners who share our commitment to closing equity gaps. The Santa Clarita Community College District seeks leaders possessing a strong grounding in academic and student services programs and a thorough understanding of the primary mission of the community college. We seek employees that value mentorship and working in a collegial, collaborative environment, who are conscientious risk takers and transformational leaders guided by a commitment to helping all students achieve their educational goals.
Position Description:
Under the supervision of the Director, Payroll Services, in conjunction with the Assistant Superintendent/Vice President, Business Services, the Payroll Coordinator is responsible for all aspects of payroll-related entries and reporting into the Los Angeles County Office of Education, District, and other related institutional/governmental agency computerized payroll systems. Performs a variety of highly skilled and specialized payroll and district retirement plan functions for the District. Prepares employee historical payroll, employment, and other related statistical data reports. Assures accuracy and conformance with established policies and procedures. Performs other related duties as assigned.
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this class.
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Organizes, plans and performs payroll activities to assure timely preparation, distribution and legal reporting of a complex payroll system while meeting multiple demanding payroll schedules and timelines.
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Reviews, prepares, processes, audits and balances complete payrolls from print, electronic, and/or other forms of time reporting for all District employees. Enters time worked into the Los Angeles County Office of Education computerized payroll system. Determines appropriate budget account codes, retirement codes, withholding for taxes, Social Security and Medicare status, Unemployment Insurance and payroll deductions.
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Maintains knowledge of, interprets, and ensures compliance with current legislation, Federal, State and Education Code laws, PERS and CalSTRS regulations, collective bargaining agreements, employee contract provisions, and other District policies, procedures, and regulations pertaining to payroll processing.
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Processes and enters employment-related documents for all new and current employees into Los Angeles County Office of Education computerized payroll system. Performs high level analysis in order to maintain an accurate employee database and related District tables, including verifying and updating all personnel related information, employee benefits selections, and voluntary deductions.
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Ensures continuity and compliance with various retirement systems. Researches, interprets, and determines employees’ applicable retirement plan membership. Clarifies related employee information through the coordination and review of Human Resources retirement questionnaire, communication with the Los Angeles County Office of Education, correspondence with other districts, and data obtained from CalSTRS and PERS retirement agencies.
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Interprets and adheres to the multifaceted reporting requirements for the CalSTRS Cash Balance retirement program. Researches, analyzes, reviews, verifies, adjusts, and prepares employee historical payroll and employment statistical data reports for related County and State agencies. Prepares finalized retirement report information for use by Fiscal Services in identifying related account distribution and processing warrant for timely submittal to CalSTRS.
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Coordinates, maintains, and provides reconciled reports to the District’s Third Party Administrator in the processing of employee Tax Sheltered Annuity contracts. Verifies, updates, and sets up related employee deduction records. Applies and processes payments of administrative fees. Develops customized employee reports as requested by Third Party Administrator.
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Maintains timely and accurate implementation of District salary schedules and work calendars in accordance with collective bargaining agreements, employee contract provisions, and other District policies, procedures including the District’s academic calendar to comply with compensation and work day requirements.
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Coordinates with District MIS department in order to record and maintain accurate employee leave accruals and disbursements in the District’s information system. Records and maintains detailed permanent employee records regarding accrual and disbursement of sick, vacation and other paid/unpaid leaves. Processes related reports and payments according to collective bargaining agreements, employee contract provisions, and other District policies, procedures.
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Compiles and processes timely and accurate payroll tax deposits as well as assists with the quarterly and annual Federal, State and Unemployment Insurance payroll tax reports. Provides employee salary history and position information in response to State EDD audits, and for other authorized governmental jurisdictions.
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Ensures compliance with underlying regulations for voluntary and required payroll deductions. Reviews accuracy of requests for employee voluntary deductions. Reconciles employee deductions with monthly vendor invoices and processes warrant requests for related payments.
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Tracks and ensures accurate calculations of temporary employees’ workdays and hours in accordance with Ed Code and District policies. Communicates with supervisors and Human Resources as workdays and hour time limits are approached.
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Determines the causes of payroll errors and discrepancies in payments or records and makes corrections and adjustments as necessary. Assists District personnel in resolving payroll concerns.
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Retains complete and accurate records and documents for all employees relating to payroll and fringe benefits. Ensures compliance with record retention policies and procedures in order to assure the security and accessibility of documents and records.
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Coordinates with Human Resources regarding employee leave calendars for Workers' Compensation, medical leaves, and Unemployment Insurance information. Processes payroll adjustments according to collective bargaining agreements, employee contract provisions, and State and Federal guidelines.
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Assists in the preparation of various reports including but not limited to, year-to-date tax earnings, payroll estimates and analysis, employee compensation information, and other payroll-related reports as assigned. Reconciles reports and audits for accuracy.
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Presents Payroll Services information at new employee orientations. Participates in Professional Development workshops in coordination with other Business Services departments, providing critical information in a timely manner to other departments on campus.
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Provides payroll information and documents as requested by faculty, staff, students, and other miscellaneous requests. Responds to official inquiries regarding employee’s working status and earnings in response to auditors and/or employment verification requests.
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Performs various administrative and clerical duties as required, including but not limited to typing correspondence, reports and forms, copying and filing documents, faxing information, establishing and maintaining files, attending meetings and assisting District administrators, staff, and faculty.
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Maintains confidentiality of sensitive information and works effectively with minimal supervision and frequent interruptions.
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Performs other related duties as assigned.
Demonstrated Knowledge and Abilities:
Position requires ability to:
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Learn, interpret and apply legal mandates, policies, regulations, and guidelines and operational procedure.
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Demonstrate excellent customer service skills and ability to multi-task in a high stress, team-oriented environment.
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Perform repetitive work, or continuously perform the same work with accuracy and efficiency.
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Adapt to changing payroll and procedural requirements.
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Analyze data and solve non-routine problems using good judgment and applying generally accepted accounting principles.
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Interface in difficult situations, assess complex and technical problems, collect data, and suggest potential solutions to minimize problems from escalating.
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Write technical reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals or handbooks related to payroll.
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Work independently while meeting schedules and timelines.
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Establish and maintain comprehensive and accurate files and records as well as prepare concise and complete reports as required.
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Provide appropriate information to the students, faculty, staff, and the public in a friendly and professional manner.
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Maintain confidentiality when dealing with sensitive and privileged material and information.
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Communicate effectively and accurately orally and in written form.
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Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with students, faculty, staff, temporary employees, and others connected in the performance of duties.
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Work effectively and demonstrate currency of knowledge with computers and other forms of advanced technology utilized in providing high-quality services.
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Type with speed and accuracy using automated payroll system, word processing, spreadsheet, database; and make arithmetical calculations in like manner.
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Apply knowledge of modern office practices and equipment, including record management and filing systems, receptionist and telephone techniques, correspondence and report writing.
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Apply knowledge of proper English usage, grammar, spelling and punctuation.
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Demonstrate clear evidence of sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, staff and community.
Minimum Requirements:
Experience:
Three (3) years of full-time equivalent experience processing payroll. Experience using a computerized payroll system and Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUP’s and pivot tables) is required. Payroll experience working in an educational institution or public agency system is desirable.
Education:
Education equivalent to an Associate’s degree from an accredited institution is required. Two (2) additional years of payroll processing experience in addition to that identified above may be substituted for each year (30 units) of the educational requirement.
Desired Qualifications:
Proficiency in Payroll Software (HCM Human Capital Management system, Colleague, Power BI).
Physical Characteristics:
Position requires sitting and viewing a computer monitor for extended periods of time plus frequent periods of standing and walking, which may include climbing staircases; dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and related equipment; reaching, bending, stooping, kneeling, and crawling; frequently exert 10 to 20 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects; handling and working with various materials and objects; hearing and speaking to communicate and provide information to others; vision to read printed material and computer monitor; may be exposed to occasional contact with dissatisfied individuals; and travel from site-to-site.
District Classified Employee Benefits:
Full-time employees are provided with a diversified program that includes medical, dental and vision insurance including dependent coverage, disability and life insurance as well as Section 125 options. These benefits commence on the first of the month following date of hire. Professional development opportunities are provided to all employees. Educational incentive is available to eligible Classified Represented and Confidential employees.
RETIREMENT: Classified employees contribute to the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS), a defined benefit retirement plan through the State of California.
Conditions of Employment:
Successful completion of background fingerprint clearance, pre-employment physical examination (disabilities not related to the physical job will not affect the application process) and TB screening.
Proof of eligibility to work in the United States and signing of loyalty oath per government codes 3100-3109.
Meeting applicable eligibility requirements under CalPERS or CalSTRS if you are a current or former member.
Board of Trustees approval.
Official, sealed transcripts are required upon offer of employment.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
Santa Clarita Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
The Santa Clarita Community College District is committed to employing qualified employees who are dedicated to student learning and success. The Board recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students. The Board is committed to hiring and staff development processes that support the goals of equal opportunity and diversity, and provide consideration for all qualified candidates. The District does not unlawfully discriminate in providing educational or employment opportunities to any person on the basis of race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 years and over), sexual orientation, veteran and/or military status, protected medical leaves (requesting or approved for leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act or the California Family Rights Act), domestic violence victim status, political affiliation, and any other status protected by state or federal law or on the basis of these perceived characteristics, or based on association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.
Applicants who have disabilities may request that accommodations be made in order to complete the selection process by contacting the Human Resources office directly at (661) 362-3427.
About the District:
Why Work at College of the Canyons?
College of the Canyons (COC) is a nationally recognized Hispanic-Serving Institution located in Santa Clarita, California, and is dedicated to fostering student success in a dynamic and inclusive environment. Serving over 37,000 students across two campuses, COC offers more than 275 degree and certificate programs and is known for its strong transfer pathways, award-winning workforce programs, and innovative initiatives like Zero Textbook Costs (ZTC) and the Canyons Promise program, which provides two years of free education for new full-time students. As a regional leader in innovation, equity, and community engagement, the college partners with over 100 organizations, and has secured millions in grants and workforce development funding. Its students regularly transfer to top UC schools, win national scholarships, and contribute to projects reaching as far as NASA. With new facilities like the Takeda Science Center, an Intercultural Center, and robust University Center partnerships offering bachelor’s and graduate degrees, COC continues to grow its impact. Faculty and staff are driven by a shared commitment to teaching excellence, respect, creativity, and meaningful community connections, all in a vibrant Southern California setting.
APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS:
Applicants are encouraged to complete their applications online. Please visit our website at http://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources. If you require assistance, please call the Human Resources office at (661)362-3427 or for the hearing-impaired TTY/TDD Line at (661)362-5178. Applicants may check the status of their application online and may expect to be notified within approximately 4 - 5 weeks following the Review Date as to the status of their application.
All application materials must be uploaded online or received in the Human Resources office by the end of the day on the Review Date in order to assure consideration for this position. Postmark is not acceptable for this purpose. Separate application materials must be submitted for each position applied for. Materials submitted become property of the District and will not be returned, copied, or considered for other openings. The Human Resources office is located in the University Center, Suite #360 at 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA, 91355.
Your application is not complete until the following required materials have been uploaded online or received by the Human Resources office:
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Online District CLASSIFIED Application.
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Detailed resume, which includes month/year dates of employment and descriptions of responsibilities at each employer.
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Letter of interest (cover letter). In your letter, please address your qualifications and experience as they pertain to the job duties and the abilities section of this announcement.
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Copies of complete and legible college transcripts clearly indicating all college units earned and any degree awarded. You can submit unofficial copies of transcripts for application purposes. Copies of diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of college transcripts. Official, sealed transcripts are required upon offer of employment. Please see our website for the requirements for evaluation of transcripts from foreign colleges or universities.
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Confidential Recruitment Source Information (voluntary survey). This is voluntary and is a part of the online applicant profile, separate from the application.
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Supplemental Questionnaire. Please answer the following questions as part of your application packet.
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Do you possess an education equivalent to an Associate’s degree (60 semester units) or higher from an accredited institution? If yes, list your degree(s) and please provide a legible copy of your college/university transcript(s) in your online application packet. Copies of diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of college transcripts. If no, and you are using additional years of work experience in lieu of the semester unit of education, please clearly indicate how you meet the minimum educational requirement through this additional work experience.
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Do you possess three or more years of full-time equivalent experience processing payroll? Please describe your experience using a computerized payroll system and Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUPs and pivot tables). Please include employer names(s), position title(s), dates of employment, full-time or part-time status (hours per week), your roles and responsibilities. Please provide your total years of full-time experience in this field.
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Please describe any experience you may have working in an educational institution or public agency system.
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Please describe your experience/knowledge relating to the interpretation and applications of employee contracts, labor laws, and employment paperwork, as it pertains to payroll processing.
- Please describe your experience using payroll, human resources information, timekeeping, or enterprise resource planning systems. Include the systems you have used and your role in utilizing them.
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Describe the methods you use to audit and reconcile payroll and timesheet data to ensure accuracy and resolve discrepancies.
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How do you stay current on changes to federal, state, and local payroll laws, regulations, taxes, and compliance requirements?
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Describe a time you worked collaboratively with others to resolve a payroll, timekeeping, or operational issue. What was your role and what was the outcome?
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Please describe your ability to work successfully and thrive in a multicultural, diverse environment.
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Why do you want to work at College of the Canyons in this staff position?
Please note:-
Skills evaluation of candidates for interview may be required.
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Travel and relocation expenses are the responsibility of the applicant.
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Hiring committees review all complete, qualified application packets. Possession of the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview.
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“Experience” generally refers to relevant paid experience. In some instances, unpaid experience may be counted as experience towards meeting the minimum qualifications or requirements for the position only if it entailed responsibilities substantially similar to those of relevant paid positions in the field. It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide sufficient information and details to the Human Resources office at the time of submission of their application packet. Details should include the organization, contact name and contact information, start and end dates, hours per week, and a list of relevant unpaid/volunteer duties or responsibilities performed. Not all unpaid experience may qualify. Upon offer of employment, an applicant will be required to obtain written verification(s) of any relevant unpaid/volunteer experience.
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Current COC employees who are applying for this position: Please be aware that materials from your personnel file are not included as part of the application file; therefore, please provide the same requested application materials as any other applicant.
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Please be aware that, should you be considered as a finalist for this position, reference checks will include current supervisor(s).
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Applicants are encouraged to apply online. If you need assistance with the application process, contact:
Human Resources Office
(661) 362-3427
TTY/TDD (661) 362-5178 or visit our website at
www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources
It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all application materials are fully and correctly submitted. All materials submitted are for this position only and become the property of the District. Materials will not be returned, copied or considered for other openings. Resumes may not be submitted in lieu of the official application form.
The College is expecting to conduct initial interviews between the weeks of October 5, 2026 and October 12, 2026 and conduct final interviews between the weeks of October 12, 2026 and October 19, 2026. This is an estimated timeline, and is subject to change.
** Interviews may be conducted in-person or remotely via Zoom.
** This is an in-office position, working forty hours per week on the Valencia campus.
Positions are offered contingent on funding. We reserve the right to withdraw, extend the filing date, reopen, or delay filling this position. Recruitment may continue until the position is filled. This recruitment may be used for future vacancies. 