Senior Payroll Specialist

Overview

The City of Raleigh Municipal Government seeks a Senior Payroll Specialist to support accurate, timely payroll operations for the city’s workforce.

• Experience in payroll processing within a local government, public sector, or similarly structured organization, including familiarity with timekeeping systems, deductions, and payroll cycles.
• Working knowledge of payroll regulations and compliance and regulatory requirements, such as FLSA, tax with holdings, garnishments, and benefit deductions.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy, especially when reviewing payroll data, performing reconciliations, and/or preparing reports.
• Proficiency with financial or payroll software systems (e.g., Enterprise Resource Planning systems, timekeeping platforms, or Human Resources Information Systems, along with Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet and Microsoft Office tools).
• Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to respond timely and accurately to employee inquiries and collaborate effectively with internal departments.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, priorities and deadlines, while maintaining confidentiality and demonstrating sound judgment in handling sensitive payroll information.

The Payroll Division of the Finance Department processes end-to-end biweekly payroll for more than 5,500 full and part-time employees. This is a team-oriented, accuracy-driven environment where your work ensures timely, reliable compensation and contributes to the City’s broader financial health. Our Finance Department prides itself on fiscal integrity, accountability, and smart decision-making, with a focus on efficiency, compliance, financial reporting, and strong internal controls.

After onboarding, you’ll also enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule that supports work‑life balance – making this an excellent opportunity for professionals who want to make an impact while enjoying flexibility.

As a Senior Payroll Specialist in the Payroll Division, you’ll be a key contributor to delivering accurate, timely, and compliant payroll services for the City. You’ll:

• Ensure every paycheck counts: Perform end-to-end payroll processing, including data verification, audits, and corrections to ensure employees are paid accurately and on time.
• Handle the complex with confidence: Manage specialized payroll functions such as garnishments, child support orders, terminations/separations, and retirements with precision and care.
• Keep the books balanced: Support payroll-related account reconciliations—identifying discrepancies and working collaboratively to resolve them.
• Turn data into clarity: Maintain and prepare payroll spreadsheets, reports, and documentation that are accurate, up to date, and audit ready.
• Be the first line of support: Respond to employee and department inquiries about payroll matters—resolving issues or escalating them when needed.
• Champion compliance: Assist with internal audits and compliance reviews, ensuring adherence to payroll policies, labor laws, and reporting requirements.
• Protect what matters: Maintain organized, confidential payroll records in line with retention policies and audit standards.
• Support the bigger picture: Take on related fiscal and administrative duties that contribute to the smooth operation of the Payroll Division and the City’s broader financial goals.

Education and Experience:

• Associate's Degree or 2 Years of College in Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, or related field, and 1 to 3 years' experience in billing, accounting, payroll, or a related field.
• OR any equivalent combination of training and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities may be substituted.

• Medical insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k)
• Disability insurance
• Tuition assistance
• Paid paternity leave
• Pension plan
• Paid maternity leave