Payroll Specialist

JOB The City of Bend is accepting applications for one (1) regular, full-time Payroll Specialist in the Finance Department. This is a non-represented, hourly, non-exempt (overtime eligible) position. The City may use this job posting to create an eligibility list for future hiring purposes. Please review the entire job posting, including the application requirements at the end.This role is ideal for someone who takes pride in delivering accurate, reliable payroll support and enjoys work that blends routine processes with analytical problem-solving. As a key contributor to the City’s payroll operations, you’ll handle a wide range of responsibilities—from processing timesheets and maintaining employee records to auditing payroll data and ensuring compliance with state and federal requirements. The work is detail-oriented and collaborative, connecting you with HR, department leaders, and employees across the organization.This is an opportunity for someone who thrives in a structured environment but appreciates the challenge of navigating exceptions and unique scenarios. You’ll use your analytical skills, customer service mindset, and strong technical abilities to keep payroll operations efficient and reliable. If you enjoy balancing routine responsibilities with investigative problem-solving and want to contribute to a team that supports every employee across the organization, this may be the position for you!Classification Framework: Payroll Specialist EXAMPLE OF DUTIES The following duties are a sample of major duties performed in this role and not intended to be an exhaustive list.Process, audit, and maintain payroll data, including timesheets, payroll changes, leave accruals, and salary/benefit calculations to ensure accurate and timely payroll runs.Research and resolve payroll inquiries and discrepancies from employees, departments, and management, providing clear guidance and issue resolution.Generate, audit, and reconcile payroll registers, identifying errors and taking corrective action to ensure accurate system calculations.Prepare and submit payroll-related payments and reports to agencies including IRS, state revenue departments, retirement systems, insurance carriers, and other benefit providers.Balance and file required monthly, quarterly, and annual payroll tax reports, including preparation and distribution of W-2s.Perform payroll account reconciliations and internal payroll audits to maintain accuracy, compliance, and a complete audit trail.Support payroll system operations, including recommending process improvements, coordinating system updates, testing enhancements, and maintaining the payroll/general ledger interface.Ensure compliance with contracts, policies, and state and federal payroll laws, maintaining confidentiality and safeguarding payroll data.Assist with payroll-related analysis and reporting, including budgeting support and preparation of payroll information for management. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Application Deadline: Applications received by March 31, 2026, and 12:00 PM (noon) Pacific Time will be included in an initial review and consideration for interview; however, the position will remain open until filled.Application Requirements: To be considered for an interview, applicants must complete an online application including the following attachments (failure to include required attachments may result in disqualification): Cover LetterResumeVeterans’ Preference: Applicants seeking Veterans’ Preference as a qualified veteran or disabled veteran must attach appropriate documentation to their application. For more information click here.Equity Statement: The City of Bend remains committed to building a workforce that advances diversity and inclusion within our community and all we do. We recognize that not everyone starts from the same place, and that gender, race, ability, sexual orientation, and other identities face different barriers. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are dedicated to creating an inclusive, safe, and respectful workplace where employees can thrive without these barriers. A more extended version of the City of Bend’s Organizational Equity Statement is available upon request.Benefits: The City of Bend offers an excellent competitive benefits package for Employees and Dependents for health and dental coverage, retirement benefits, and a robust paid leave program. Details are available on the benefits tab of the job posting.Starting Compensation: Starting compensation is determined based on a pay equity analysis considering the candidate’s education, applicable work experience, and internal equity. Please include all relevant information on your application.