Payroll Specialist

Under general direction of the Payroll Administrator, the Payroll Specialist ensures accurate processing of payroll functions, including calculations, check preparation, record maintenance, tax and deduction reporting, and handling involuntary deductions. This role also provides backup support for vendor management, accounts payable, accounts receivable billing, and payment processing. Extensive attention to detail, independent judgment, and discretion are required.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily tasks related to the City’s payroll and time/attendance systems; review additions, deletions, and changes for accuracy; maintain system updates (earnings codes, deduction codes, cost centers).
• Review compensation and benefit data entered by HR against pay records; set year-end deadlines for HR and Payroll functions.
• Process payroll actions including IRS wage garnishments, child support, benefits withholding, overtime, and workers’ compensation claims; prepare, balance, and correct payroll reports.
• Prepare bi-weekly ACH payroll transfer files and bank transfers; verify payroll and cash transfer journal entries.
• Generate monthly reports, check requests, and submit quarterly/year-end filings (tax deposits, 941s, TMRS contributions, W-2s).
• Resolve employee and department payroll inquiries professionally and promptly.
• Research regulatory updates impacting payroll; assist in developing policies and procedures.
• Maintain unclaimed property check databases; prepare annual state reports and research returned checks.
• Support Citywide payroll/timekeeping training and develop training materials.
• Provide accounting operations support: vendor setup/maintenance (including 1099 processing), voucher audits, void/stop payments, purchasing receiver tasks, AR billing, and cash receipts processing.
• Assist with month-end/year-end closing, operational report reviews, audit preparation, and continuous improvement of accounting services.
• Perform other assigned duties.

Requirements

• Associate’s Degree in accounting, finance, or related field and 2 years of accounting/finance experience plus 3 years of customer service, clerical, or function-specific experience or equivalent combination.
• Knowledge of computerized financial applications (AP, AR, Payroll).
• Customer service orientation, teamwork focus, self-starter mindset, professional attitude, strong organization, detail orientation, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
• Municipal or governmental accounting experience.