With unemployment rates at record levels, temporary agencies are busier than ever. I had the pleasure of speaking with Aliya Purtee who is the branch manager at Patrick Staffing, a temporary staffing agency. She not only helps people get placed in jobs but also plays a big part in making sure people are paid.
Can you explain what you do for a living?
I am a branch manager and a payroll specialist at a staffing agency. As branch manager, I oversee three employees. An aspect of my role is to listen to the needs of the staff, and then I ensure that my staff fulfills their needs. A big part of my job is processing payroll for about 100 employees each week. This includes checking time cards to make sure there are no additional errors. Also, I engage with approximately 50 customers per week and then our branch takes applications five days a week.
When do you use basic math in your job?
I consistently use basic math skills in my job. My job consists of calculating hours for payroll, pay and bill rates. Also, I use math to generate company’s markups and to determine a burden rate for worker’s compensation. I use the company’s markup to calculate pay rates and bill rates. Some companies pay a shift premium which also requires calculation.
Do you use any technology (like calculators or computers) to help with this math?
I use a calculator sometimes, but most of the time I do the figures in my head. I enter the figures into the computer. Also, I issue debit cards for the employees that do not have direct deposit set up. After the time is entered, I print a report that allows me to audit my entries so that I can double check for mistakes.
How do you think math helps you do your job better?
If I did not have basic math skills, I could not fulfill my duties at work.
How comfortable with math do you feel?
I am very confident with my math skills. In my current position I cannot make errors. If I do, they can have large consequences.
What kind of math did you take in high school?
In high school, I took algebra. I did not like math in high school, and I refused to challenge myself with advanced classes. I really did not realize how much math is used in our everyday lives. [Tweet this]
Did you have to learn new skills in order to do the math you use in your job?
I did not have to learn new math skills at my job.
The people who manage payroll could easily go unnoticed — until we didn’t get our paychecks! If you have questions for Aliya, post them in the comments section, and I’ll ask her.
