Payroll Specialist

$59,654 - $80,163/Yr

City Of Salem - Salem, OR

Full-time - Entry Level

Remote - Salem, OR

1,001-5,000 employees

Support Activities for Transportation

About the position

The Payroll Specialist plays a crucial role in the Payroll Team within the Human Resources department, providing payroll services to employees of the City of Salem and the Salem Housing Authority. This position is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll documents, taxes, and benefits, while ensuring compliance with various regulations. The role offers opportunities for growth and development in response to evolving payroll technologies and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Provide excellent customer service to employees and supervisors of the City of Salem and Salem Housing Authority.
• Process garnishments and other special pay requirements.
• Conduct Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) reporting and reconciliations.
• Interpret multiple employee collective bargaining unit contracts.
• Research and resolve complex payroll issues related to time entry, leave accruals, and adjustments.
• Audit timecards, payroll processes, and reconciliations using Excel and reporting writing programs.
• Apply Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) rules and regulations regarding bargaining contracts and HR policies affecting employee-employer relations.
• Collaborate closely with the Human Resources team regarding contract interpretation and employee payroll processing.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent and specialized payroll classes.
• Two (2) years of experience in processing municipal payroll or related field, or any combination of experience and training that demonstrates possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the job.

Nice-to-haves

• Associates degree or some college preferred.
• Government and accounting experience and procedures preferred.
• Experience with in-house payroll processing.
• Microsoft Excel skills, including spreadsheet design, formulas, functions, and pivot tables.
• CPP or FPC designation desirable.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families.
• Paid vacation and sick time in accordance with City policies.
• Competitive pay.
• Employer-paid PERS contribution of 6%.
• Opportunity for voluntary pre-tax contributions to a 457b account.
• Health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• Voluntary long-term care.
• Employee wellness program.
• Employee assistance program.
• Employee health clinic.
• Flexible/Hybrid work options after training.