The role of a payroll employee at the UCPath Center goes way beyond numbers crunching. The payroll department carries out the UCPath Center’s mission by providing an integrated payroll solution for the entire University of California (UC) system.
Those who work in payroll at the UCPath Center should have strong computer skills, including intermediate skills in Microsoft Office Suite, prior experience in databases and proficiency in PeopleSoft payroll. They also should be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, adhering to multiple deadlines.
Potential candidates interested in working in the payroll department should have strong skills focusing on a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. They enact problem-solving, critical and logical thinking, and organizational skills to evaluate options and implement solutions.
In addition to technical skills, payroll supervisors are team players and communicate information to colleagues in a clear and concise manner. They also possess a talent to motivate and develop their team members.
But it isn’t all work and no play for payroll employees like Payroll Supervisor Tiffany Garcia. She considers the holiday season the most wonderful time of the year and said she enjoys taking part decorating the payroll department with festive ornaments and knick-knacks. “I love sharing my traditions with the workplace,” Garcia says. “[My UCPath Center colleagues] feel like family!”Garcia has brought these skills and a lot more to the UCPath Center. “My favorite part of the UCPath Center is the people I work with,” she said. “I have never been in such a comfortable and friendly working environment where we all encourage one another.”
Garcia, who recently celebrated her year anniversary at the UCPath Center, shared her experiences about what she’s learned during her career so far:
In her own words, Tiffany shares an inside look at working in payroll at the UCPath Center.
Q: Give us an overview of your role:
A: “A typical day at work for me consists of daily interactions with my payroll team members. We are working together by identifying improvements to current processes. As a result, we are making a stronger team.
As a payroll supervisor, I serve as a subject matter expert (SME) for the data maintenance team. I also oversee and maintain the implementation and operational workflow of administrative practices and procedures regarding payroll, such as garnishments, reconciliation, payroll taxation, penalties and deposit requirements. I also evaluate salary information and compensation practices to ensure these are accurate and comply with federal and state legislation.”
Q: What originally drew you to this position at the UCPath Center?
A: “I first learned about the UCPath Center through Indeed.com when I was job searching. I was then intrigued, and wanted to learn more about the center and its project goals.”
Q: What three words would you use to describe the UCPath Center?
A: “Innovative, friendly and inspiring.”
Q: What do you like most about the work that you do?
A: “I love being a part of this huge project and seeing our efforts making a difference. Everyone has such a collaborative spirit, which makes this a joy to work with everyone I have gained confidence in myself to reach higher and never give up.”
Q: How has the UCPath Center helped you in your career development?
A: “The UCPath Center allows me to develop my career by challenging myself on difficult tasks and projects, allowing my knowledge growth within the UC systems.”
Q: What advice do you have for prospective candidates?
A: “Be sure to do your homework about the UC system and the UCPath Center. We are a crucial component of the University of California’s high-priority project to centralize, streamline and standardize the university’s human resources, payroll, benefits, general ledger, workforce administration and academic processes.
Bring some smart, high-level questions to your interview. Honesty goes a long way, so show it!”
