Payroll Specialist

Job Description:

Payroll Specialist

Description

Summary

Under general supervision, administers the payroll and benefits system for the City to include payroll preparation and reporting to ensure employees are paid accurately and in a timely manner.

Essential Functions

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Prepares semi-monthly payroll.
• Monitors computerized payroll system to ensure data integrity and reliability.
• Monitors, records, and reconciles City payroll transactions and accounts.
• Files required federal and state payroll reports and taxes.
• Assists with system improvements, conversions and upgrades.
• Sets-up and maintains employee direct deposit information; scans and verifies timesheets in computer system; enters and processes all employee hours for payroll; balances all benefit and deduction premiums, including all medical premiums.
• Maintains the City’s payroll calendar; verifies, issues, and prints checks and direct deposit slips.
• Processes and files various reports to include payroll reports, quarterly employment reports, and end of year W-2 reports.
• Maintains retention schedules and archives for payroll processing and reporting.
• Prepares and analyzes payroll-related transactions and processes entries and corrections and develops, prepares and maintains computerized spreadsheets.
• Manages healthcare accounts and related charges.
• Responds to various payroll related questions from City employees; assists directors with inquiries related to payroll policies and procedures and compensation contract language.
• Assists with budget development and monitoring.
• Confers with other Human Resources personnel to resolve problems and develop solutions
• Works closely with Finance staff.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education, Training, and Experience Guidelines
Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field AND three (3) years of progressively responsible payroll experience, preferably within a local government agency or the public sector; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Applicable local, State, and Federal laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances.
• Payroll administration practices and procedures.
• General office policies, procedures, and equipment.
• Customer service principles, practices, and etiquette.
• Records maintenance and retention policies and procedures.
• Proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Payroll and accounting related software programs.

Skill in:

• Interpreting and using City policies, collective bargaining agreements and procedures.
• Analyzing and interpreting state and federal laws and requirements.
• Preparing and reconciling general ledger accounts and financial reports.
• Developing and maintaining computerized spreadsheets.
• Maintaining accurate records and filing systems.
• Interacting tactfully and professionally with City staff, outside agencies, and the public.
• Completing multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Typing and entering data with speed and accuracy.
• Completing accurate mathematic calculations.
• Understanding and explaining compensation and benefits related contract language.
• Handling and maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Preparing clear and concise communications, reports, and technical documents.
• Analyzing complex issues and implementing appropriate responses.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• A valid State driver’s license may be required.
• Certification as a Payroll Professional (CPP) from the American Payroll Association is preferred.

BENEFITS

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurances
• Life Insurance policy
• Employee Assistance Program
• Department of Retirement Systems Retirement Plan
• Paid vacation, holidays and sick leave
• Gym Membership reimbursement
• Deferred Compensation (voluntary)

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter and resume with their application. Applications must be received no later than 11:59 pm on Sunday, June 8, 2025.

Applicants selected to continue in the process will be invited to the interview process on June 18, 2025.

For additional information, or a complete job description, please visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/mtvernonwa/classspecs

The City of Mount Vernon provides and enforces a drug free workplace and maintains a smoke free work environment.

The City of Mount Vernon is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurances
• Life Insurance policy
• Employee Assistance Program
• Department of Retirement Systems Retirement Plan
• Paid vacation, holidays and sick leave.
• Gym Membership reimbursement.
• Deferred Compensation (voluntary)

Closing Date/Time: 6/8/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$71,892.00 - $94,620.00 Annually