Payroll Specialist

Note: This job will be posted through 11:59 PM of the day prior to the end date listed.Current Washington County Employees: Please apply through the employee portal to be considered for this opportunity.Job TypeRegularPay Range$32.32 - $39.31 HourlyDepartmentFinanceFLSA Exemption StatusNon-ExemptAbout The OpportunityThe Payroll Specialist is responsible for reviewing, verifying, balancing, and processing payroll data for Washington County’s centralized payroll system. This role requires specialized payroll knowledge, independent judgment, and the ability to complete complex payroll accounting tasks.Essential DutiesProcess and maintain payroll data, including time entry, pay rates, leave, deductions, garnishments, and corrections Ensure payroll accuracy and compliance by preparing reports, reconciling records, resolving discrepancies, and interpreting policies, regulations, and union contracts Prepare and submit payroll taxes, assist with reconciling payroll accounts, including PERS reconciliations Issue or reissue paychecks and direct deposits for regular processing, adjustments, and separations Support and improve payroll systems by testing changes, recommending process enhancements, and assisting decentralized payroll users Train new payroll users and participate in evaluating and updating payroll procedures Ideal Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities (KSAs)Payroll processing systems and ERP platforms (such as Workday), including payroll controls and procedures Federal, state, and local payroll regulations, tax requirements, and PERS processes Governmental payroll practices, personnel policies, and union contract provisions Financial recordkeeping principles and payroll related software tools Accurately process and reconcile high volume, complex payroll data under strict deadlines Research and analyze payroll issues, including deductions, garnishments, and regulatory impacts Use payroll and financial systems to prepare reports, maintain records, and ensure compliance Communicate clearly and effectively with employees, departments, and stakeholders Learn and navigate payroll software and ERP systems quickly Generate accurate payroll, tax, and yearend reports with minimal oversight Work independently while collaborating effectively with various individuals and departments Interpret and apply policies, regulations, and union contract provisions to payroll decisions Minimum QualificationsTo review the complete classification, including the full list of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) associated with this position, use this link: Payroll Specialist Class SpecificationEducation And ExperiencePossession of an Associate’s Degree in accounting, business, or related field AND two (2) or more years of relevant full cycle payroll processing experience related to maintaining a payroll system or processing payroll records, OR Accounting Certificate (12 months) AND three (3) or more years of relevant full cycle payroll processing experience related to maintaining a payroll system or processing payroll records; OR Five (5) or more years of relevant full cycle payroll processing experience maintaining a payroll system or processing payroll records. Additional RequirementsMust pass a background check which includes evaluation of credit history. Selection ProcessYou can review our standard selection process here.Our Commitment To YouWashington County is an equal opportunity employer committed to using a merit-based system in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on knowledge, skills, and abilities. Our organization embraces innovation, collaboration, and work-life harmony. We promote employee development and offer an award-winning benefits and wellness program as well as an opportunity to serve and support our vibrant community.Veterans' PreferenceIf you are a Veteran and would like to be considered for Veterans' preference for this recruitment, please review the instructions using this link: Veterans' Preference Points.Accommodation Under The Americans With Disabilities ActReasonable accommodation is available to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in the selection process for this recruitment. To obtain confidential assistance please contact Human Resources 503-846-8606, or email: Careers@WashingtonCountyOR.gov at least 48 hours before any step in the recruitment and selection process for which you feel you need accommodation.Status Of Your ApplicationYou will be advised by email of your status at each step in the application process, from initial application to final employment disposition. Please note that Washington County communicates with all candidates via email.Questions?RecruiterElle KruegerEmail AddressElle_Krueger@washingtoncountyor.gov