As the HR and Payroll Manager at the University of Maryland College Park, you will oversee payroll appointments, ensuring accuracy and compliance with HR policies. You'll coordinate administrative functions related to payroll and human resources for approximately 700 individuals in the Physics Department. Communication with faculty and staff is critical, as you will educate them on system standards and best practices while providing exceptional customer service.

To qualify for the HR and Payroll Manager role at the University of Maryland College Park, candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree and at least three years of professional HR or payroll experience. Supervisory experience of at least one year is also required. Familiarity with HR information systems and proficiency with payroll software, especially Workday, is highly desirable. A Master’s degree or any relevant certifications can enhance your application.

Success in the HR and Payroll Manager position at the University of Maryland College Park hinges on strong organizational and time management skills. Effective oral and written communication abilities are essential for interacting with staff and faculty. Additionally, having a deep understanding of payroll processes, HR policies, and legal compliance is crucial for managing the department’s functions effectively.

Daily tasks for the HR and Payroll Manager at the University of Maryland College Park include overseeing payroll processes, coordinating HR administration tasks, and facilitating communication between staff, faculty, and students. You will also address payroll issues, train staff on HR best practices, and provide reports and metrics to university leadership, ensuring that the department operates smoothly and efficiently.

While not mandatory, previous experience in HR and payroll operations within a university or higher education context is preferred for the HR and Payroll Manager role at the University of Maryland College Park. This background will help you navigate the complexities of academic administration and understand the unique needs of the university environment.

During your answer, highlight specific instances where you've utilized payroll systems such as Workday, focusing on your familiarity with payroll processing, system maintenance, or new feature implementation. Share examples of how you've navigated challenges or improved processes to demonstrate your expertise.

Discuss your time management strategies, such as creating daily to-do lists or using project management tools. Explain your approach to assessing urgency and importance, ensuring compliance with deadlines while maintaining quality service for staff and faculty.

Emphasize your communication skills by discussing various methods you use, such as email updates, in-person meetings, and training sessions. Provide examples of how you adapt your communication style based on the audience to ensure clarity and understanding.

Outline a systematic approach you follow for addressing payroll discrepancies, such as gathering relevant information, collaborating with IT or HR colleagues, and effectively communicating findings. Highlight your attention to detail and dedication to finding resolution.

Talk about the resources you utilize for staying informed, such as attending workshops, subscribing to relevant publications, and participating in professional organizations. Demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and how you apply this knowledge in your role.

Share instances when you've successfully managed or led a team, including challenges you faced, how you motivated staff, and the outcomes achieved. Highlight your leadership style and how it fosters teamwork and accountability.

Explain your understanding of the importance of confidentiality in HR and payroll roles, detailing the measures you take to secure sensitive information, such as data encryption and limited access protocols, demonstrating your commitment to ethical practices.

Discuss your methods for educating staff, such as conducting workshops or creating training materials. Illustrate your ability to present complex information in a clear and engaging manner, fostering a culture of compliance and awareness among employees.

Describe the metrics or KPIs you focus on, such as employee satisfaction, turnover rates, and compliance audits. Discuss how you analyze this data to adjust programs for improvement, showcasing your analytical skills and results-oriented approach.

Select a specific challenge you've faced and detail the steps you took to resolve it. Highlight your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and outcome to demonstrate your capacity to handle similar situations in the future.