Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist supports the City’s payroll function by ensuring payroll records are accurate, complete, and processed in accordance with City policies and applicable federal and state wage and hour requirements. Key responsibilities include preparing and verifying payroll documentation; entering and auditing time and pay data; maintaining payroll and leave accrual records; assisting with deductions, benefits with holdings, and garnishments; and responding to payroll-related inquiries with clear, timely communication.

Required qualifications/skills:

• Knowledge of basic payroll practices, bookkeeping procedures, and timekeeping processes
• Working knowledge of wage and hour requirements, payroll deductions, leave accruals, benefits deductions, garnishments, and payroll recordkeeping
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; familiarity with electronic timekeeping systems and payroll/financial software preferred
• Strong accuracy, data entry, basic accounting, and mathematical computation skills
• Ability to organize work, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality

This full-time position includes Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, along with Paid Time Off to support rest and planned time away.

Your day is structured around a consistent 40-hour, non-exempt schedule, with flexibility required for evenings, weekends, or holidays when operational needs arise. You will coordinate with multiple departments to clarify submitted time, confirm approvals, and resolve discrepancies before payroll deadlines. Much of the day involves focused computer-based work—reviewing reports, cross-checking entries, and updating records—balanced with professional, service-oriented communication to help employees understand pay-related questions.

As payroll cycles progress, priorities shift toward final validation, documentation organization, and maintaining orderly files that support audit readiness and timely pay distribution.