HR Senior Payroll Analyst

About the Role

The HR Senior Payroll Analyst is an advanced individual contributor and subject matter expert responsible for complex payroll operations, compliance, and oversight. This role will lead complex payroll activities, influencing cross‑functional processes and acting as an escalation point.

• Lead payroll validation to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timeliness of payroll processing.
• Make decisions on complex or high‑risk payroll issues and escalate only when necessary.
• Lead reconciliation strategy, ensuring audit‑ready balances and controls.
• Serve as SME on payroll regulations, garnishments, and multi‑state compliance.
• Resolve escalated/high‑risk issues, performing root cause analysis and prevention.
• Design, interpret, and deliver insights from complex reporting to leadership and partners.
• Lead system enhancements, testing strategy, and payroll process optimization.
• Provide audit support and ensure strong internal controls and readiness.
• Influence decisions across HR, Finance, HRIS, and vendors.
• Maintain knowledge of bank policies and procedures, including the Bank Secrecy Act, Regulation CC, Regulation E, and Bank Security.

• High School Diploma required;
  Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business, human resources, or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of payroll experience, including complex/multi‑state payroll.
• Prior mentoring or informal leadership experience preferred.
• Advanced expertise in payroll systems, operations, and regulatory environments.
• Strong project leadership and change management capabilities.
• Advanced analytical, reporting, and spreadsheet or data skills.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and drive decisions across HR, Finance, and business partners.
• Strong judgement, initiative, and ability to work independently on highly complex issues.
• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) preferred.

Pay range: $85,000.00 to $. Compensation may include performance‑based incentive. Primary location: 2228 South 78th Street, Tacoma, WA 98409. Ability to work fully onsite at posted location(s).

• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match.
• Employee assistance program.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Tuition assistance.
• Mental health resources.
• Identity theft protection.
• Legal support.
• Auto and home insurance.
• Pet insurance.
• Access to an online discount marketplace.
• Paid vacation, sick days, volunteer days, and holidays.
• Benefit eligibility begins the first day of the month following hire for associates regularly scheduled at least thirty hours weekly.

Columbia Bank is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to employing, engaging, and developing a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, disability, or any other applicable protected status or characteristics. If you require an accommodation to complete the application or interview(s), please let us know by email: