Auditor-Controller Payroll Specialist I/II

• Payroll Processing
• Updating employee records for deduction updates, position changes, and benefit enrollment
• Payroll Audit Projects
• Assisting Accounting Staff 

Under direction, performs advanced County payroll and personnel functions and activities; provides difficult, technical, or specialized administrative office support; performs related work as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This flexible class is responsible for performing the countywide payroll functions of the Auditor-Controller's Office, including planning, organizing, and implementing difficult, complex or specialized responsibilities related to implementation of agency contracts, policies and benefits which requires a high level of independence, initiative, and discretion. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine functions in support of Auditor-Controller Payroll Services related processes and activities. As knowledge and experience are gained, work assignments will become more complex and broader in scope, and will be performed under more general direction. This class may be flexibly staffed with Auditor-Controller Payroll Specialist II, and incumbents may advance to the higher-level class after gaining the knowledge, skills and experience that meet the qualifications for the higher-level class and demonstrating the ability to perform the required work.

• Establishes and maintains payroll records in computerized payroll and personnel systems using a working knowledge of tax code, labor law and agency MOUs; applies appropriate system codes for accurate processing of payroll and benefit issuance.
• Reviews, verifies accuracy, and processes documentation and forms for onboarding new employees accurately in accordance with laws determining taxation based on bargaining group and employee type, changes in current employees' status, classification, position, or salary, and separation of employees from County employment; assists employees and directs departments with procedure and necessary paperwork.
• Receives timecard records from County departments, reviews for completeness and accuracy, verifies compliance with payroll procedures, County MOUs and FLSA; consults with departments as needed.
• Completes specialized and advanced payroll and benefits tasks such as wage garnishments, processing of health insurance premiums from employees on extended leave, integration of state disability insurance payments with employee benefit time, etc.
• Collects, maintains and analyzes payroll and benefits information and data using spreadsheets and other software; ensures compliance with Public Employee Retirement Law reporting requirements.
• Prepares a variety of specialized payroll reports and documentation on a scheduled or as needed basis.
• Serves as liaison between County Payroll, Human Resources, and other County departments.
• Provides input into the development of payroll procedures; works with County information technology staff in testing and revision of software as needed.
• Completes requests from outside entities related to verifying income and employment status.
• Researches employee data and responds to CalPERS requests for service history, salary and related information.
• Trains County department staff as needed to utilize County payroll system to make timecard entries and run reports used for benefit tracking, budget development, funding applications and other reporting needs.
• Tracks unpaid medical leave in accordance with County MOUs, advises department on relevant dates and related actions.
• Performs loan tracking, and maintains and reconciles County voluntary pre-tax retirement contributions in compliance with Internal Revenue Code.

Knowledge of:

• Applicable laws, ordinances and regulations pertaining to public employment, salary and taxation.
• Principles, practices, terminology and processes of the completion of an automated payroll system.
• Office administrative practices and procedures, including the operation of standard office equipment.
• Principles and practices of business computer systems including word processing, spreadsheets, and the use of personal computing equipment.
• Correct English usage including spelling, grammar, punctuation and oral presentations.
• Safety procedures and requirements for reporting and documentation.

Skill in:

• Training others in work procedures.
• Organizing and prioritizing work, including meeting critical deadlines and following up on assignments.
• Analyzing and resolving a variety of administrative problems.
• Performing payroll support work.
• Interpreting, applying and explaining complex laws, codes, regulations and policies.
• Organizing, researching and maintaining office files.
• Preparing payroll, benefit, and personnel reports as required.
• Operating standard office equipment including copy machine, calculator and personal computer.
• Maintaining accurate files and records.
• Exercising sound independent judgment within established guidelines.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work.

Other Requirements:

•  Must possess a valid California driver's license.

 Desirable Education and Experience:

 A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills outlined above is:

 Auditor-Controller Payroll Specialist I: Some college coursework in accounting, bookkeeping, human resources or related field and two years of payroll experience in a large public agency environment using an automated payroll system.

Auditor-Controller Payroll Specialist II: In addition to the above, one year of work experience at a level equivalent to the County's job class of Auditor-Controller Payroll Specialist I.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW TO APPLY

A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County’s automated application system at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/humboldtcountyca. 

Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer. 

It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected. 

Please read the job requirements section of the announcement.  Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.  

Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible. 

SELECTION PROCEDURE

The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable.  Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to fill out the application?

Can I change my application after submitting it?

How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?

Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways – oftentimes, outside of formal institutions – and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant’s qualifications for a position. 

If you’re excited about this role but your past work experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) 476-2349 so arrangements can be made.  

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances. 

MEDICAL EXAMINATION

A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.

OTHER EXAMINATIONS

Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.

LICENSES

Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver’s license.

PROBATIONARY PERIOD

Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.

EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY

It is the County’s intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States.  For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.  THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.

Salary : $22 - $29