Payroll Analyst

The Finance Department works in person, Monday through Friday from 8am-5pm. Remote work is generally limited to reasonable exceptions. 

Under the direction of the Accounting Manager, perform complex, paraprofessional-level accounting and advanced clerical work related to the entire processing and responsibility of the payroll function.  This includes computation of City payroll preparation, labor contract analysis, system analysis, report reconciliation and auditing to ensure the accuracy and completeness of all payroll-related transactions.  Assist with processing business licenses, deposits, and backup to front counter, Accounts Payable, and Accounts Receivable positions.

Perform technical accounting duties accurately in order to compute and enter all aspects of payroll including, but not limited to, auditing timesheets and entry of employee maintenance, benefits, and deductions; computing payout figures, retroactive increases, adjustments, and garnishments; and processing payroll. 

Review and audit information entered into the payroll system for accuracy and completeness to detect and prevent errors and to ensure City Policy, Collective Bargaining Agreements, and Federal and State laws are followed.  

Research, review, and compute all adjustments as needed including retroactive pay when Collective Bargaining Agreements settle; make recommendations to the Supervisor and provide an explanation of calculations to employees. 

Reconcile and disburse checks/wires such as direct deposits, deferred compensation plans, Department of Retirement Systems, Municipal Employee’s Benefit Trust, Social Security, deductions, benefits, garnishments, payroll taxes, W-2’s, 1095, and all related payroll reports. 

Sort and distribute employee payroll checks. 

Prepare a variety of correspondence and documents for reporting requirements after each pay period is complete.  Prepare and distribute reports for other departments and vendors. 

Compile, reconcile, and forward required State and Federal reports quarterly and annually. 

Create new benefits and deduction plans, hour types, garnishments, shifts, leave plans as needed. 

Respond to numerous requests for payroll information; assist with audits; use computer programs to generate special reports on request. 

Research and compile payroll and staffing information quickly upon request. 

Compile financial data for the preparation of various journal entries. 

Verify cash posting and account maintenance to daily audit reports. 

Assist with Position Control maintenance; and compile information as necessary for budget purposes. 

Prioritize job duties to meet federal and state reporting requirements and contractual obligations. 

Maintain knowledge of laws and procedures governing public sector payroll and reporting requirements, accounting systems, BARS, and municipal budgeting procedures. 

Maintain accurate payroll and accounting files and other records according to the state retention schedule. 

Provide internal controls for Finance Department staff for electronic transactions; coordinate with financial institutions on incoming and outgoing electronic funds transactions. 

Use computer word processing and complex spreadsheet applications and other office machinery such as 10-key machine, calculator, photocopier, and facsimile machine extensively in the performance of job duties. 

Work courteously and effectively with City officials, employees, outside organizations and agencies, and the public. 

Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information and confidential records. 

Maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance. 

Perform special projects upon request. 

Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience: 

Any combination equivalent to:  Associate’s degree in accounting, or closely related field, AND four (4) years payroll experience involving the use of automated systems; OR any combination of relevant education and experience which would demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions for the job.  Operating a 10-key by touch is required.  Municipal payroll experience preferred.  

Knowledge of:

• Methods, procedures and terminology related to payroll and other duties as assigned.
• Applicable laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures.
• City organization, operations, policies and objectives.
• Payroll taxes.
• Operation of a computer terminal and data processing applications related to accounting and auditing functions.
• Basic research methods.
• Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary.
• Modern office practices, procedures and equipment.
• Oral and written communication skills. 
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.

 Ability to:

• Use chart of accounts, laws, codes, policies, and procedures that pertain to assigned duties.
• Prepare clear and accurate financial records and reports.
• Analyze, balance, and reconcile payroll and accounting records.
• Understand complex rules, interpret and apply regulations and contacts from IRS, State, City and employee unions.
• Provide technical information and assistance to others concerning payroll and related policies and procedures.
• Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action.
• Read, interpret, apply, and explain rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
• Plan and organize work.
• Maintain accurate and accessible records and filing system.
• Attend to detail in the preparation of records and reports.
• Establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; demonstrating tact, diplomacy and patience.
• Conduct research and organize and summarize findings.
• Coordinate programs and projects.
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Work independently with little direction as well as contribute to the Finance Team as needed.
• Maintain confidentiality of records and information as appropriate.
• Meet schedules and timelines with frequent interruptions.
• Operate personal computer including spreadsheet, word processing and graphics software.
• Physical ability to perform the essential job functions.
• Positively and effectively interact with diverse individuals to accomplish a common goal.

 Environmental Conditions/Physical Effort:

Work is performed primarily in an office environment, typically sitting at a desk for long periods of time.  Employee may be exposed to noise from basic office equipment operation.  Some lifting of light objects (up to 25 lbs) may be required.

Salary : $74,100 - $93,840