Payroll and Accounts Specialist

The Payroll and Accounts Specialist is responsible for the comprehensive management of payroll processes for the municipality. This includes preparing, processing, and maintaining payroll records, ensuring compliance with payroll tax regulations, and managing related reporting. The position also provides support to the Finance Department by assisting with payroll-related accounting tasks, reconciliations, and other financial duties.
Work is performed under general supervision of the CFO and Accounting Manager. MAJOR DUTIES
Payroll Administration:

• Prepare and process biweekly, monthly, or other scheduled payrolls accurately and timely.
• Verify timesheets, calculate earnings, and ensure proper deductions for benefits, taxes, and other withholdings.
• Maintain and update payroll systems with employee data, salary adjustments, and benefits changes.
• Address payroll-related inquiries from employees, supervisors, and department heads promptly.

Payroll Tax Compliance:

• Prepare and file federal, state, and local payroll tax reports.
• Ensure compliance with applicable payroll laws, including withholding, unemployment, and retirement contributions.
• Reconcile and remit payroll taxes and garnishments to appropriate agencies.

Accounting Support:

• Reconcile payroll-related accounts and prepare journal entries.
• Assist in the preparation of financial reports and audits related to payroll.
• Support month-end and year-end financial close processes, including W-2 and 1099 preparation.

General Finance Support:

• Maintain accurate and organized payroll and financial records.
• Assist with special projects, budget preparation, and other accounting tasks as needed.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
The CFO and/or Accounting Manager assigns work in terms of general instructions. The CFO and/or Accounting Manager spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES
Guidelines include city and department policies and procedures, and relevant State and Federal laws. These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application.  

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

• The purpose of this position is to provide payroll support for the City’s operations.  Successful performance ensures the efficiency and effectiveness of those operations.
• The work consists of varied payroll and accounting duties.   Strict regulations and the need for accuracy contribute to the complexity of the position.

CONTACTS

• Contacts are typically with coworkers, other city staff, representatives of other government agencies, bankers, auditors, attorneys, and accountants.
• Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, provide services and ensure compliance.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work is typically performed in an office environment with minimal physical demands.  Occasional light lifting may be required.  Regular use of standard office equipment, including computers, copiers and telephones.  Occasional need to attend meetings or training sessions off-site.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY
None. 

• Comprehensive knowledge of payroll processes, payroll tax regulations, and labor laws. 
• Familiarity with accounting principles, general ledger reconciliation, and financial reporting.
• Proficiency in payroll software and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and ability to manage deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with employees and external agencies.
• Ability to analyze and solve problems effectively.
• Math skills to perform basic computations.
• Writing skills to compose written documents such as internal and external communications, etc.
• Reading skills to understand and interpret written instructions, etc.
• Knowledge of city and departmental policies, procedures, rules and regulations.

• Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field (Bachelor’s degree preferred).
• Two (2) years of experience in payroll processing and accounting, preferably in a government or public sector environment.
•  Possess a valid Alabama driver’s license.
• Ability to attend seminars, conferences, and workshops.
• Must meet the City of Enterprise physical standards which include drug and alcohol testing.
• Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with completion of specialized training in the field of work.
• Must possess and maintain a current payroll specialist certification within 18 months after completion of probationary period.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with payroll software, e.g., Tyler Technologies, ADP or another municipality software.
• Certification such as Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC).

Salary : $20 - $31