HR Payroll Specialist

Columbia Bank•Tacoma, WA

23h•Onsite

About The Position

A Payroll Specialist ensures accurate processing and recording of the Bank’s payroll, provides timely and accurate financial information, and participates in daily data entry for payroll processing. Columbia Bank is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to employing, engaging, and developing a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, protected veteran status, disability, or any other applicable protected status or characteristics. At Columbia Bank, we’re redefining what it means to bank and to build a career. As the West’s premier banking experience, we combine the strength and scale of a leading financial institution with the heart and mindset of a community bank. With more than 350 locations across eight states, we deliver relationship-based service backed by regional expertise and resources that help families and businesses thrive. Our culture is built on Do RIGHT, which means: Relationships: We create authentic connections with customers, colleagues, and communities. Impact: Every role here makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives and local economies. Growth: We invest in your success with career development, mentorship, and learning opportunities. Heart: We care deeply about doing what’s best for our customers and each other. Trust: Integrity and transparency guide everything we do. Why work for Columbia Bank? A strong, stable financial foundation with over $67 billion in assets and a diverse portfolio that supports flexibility and opportunity. A culture of belonging and purpose, where your ideas matter and your work has impact. Competitive benefits and flexibility designed to help you thrive personally and professionally. Community engagement that matters, from supporting local businesses to empowering youth through financial literacy initiatives. Ready to Do RIGHT for your career, your community, and your future? Explore opportunities and join Columbia Bank today.

Requirements

Some experience processing a multi-state payroll
Strong PC skills, including developing proficiency with Excel
Strong work ethic and team player
High degree of professionalism
Ability to sensitively deal with confidential material
Strong interpersonal (verbal and written) communication skills
Ability to communicate with various levels of management
Decision-making, problem-solving, and analytical skills
Organizational, multi-tasking, and prioritization skills

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent
Knowledge of federal and state regulations
Working knowledge of payroll systems
Workday experience
Learning payroll best practices

Responsibilities

Perform daily payroll department operations
Manage workflow to ensure all payroll transactions are processed accurately and on time
Reconcile payroll prior to transmission and validate confirmed reports
Understand proper taxation of employer paid benefits
Process correct garnishment calculations and compliance
Execute time and attendance processing and interface with payroll
Perform compliance procedures for unclaimed property payroll checks
Process accurate and timely year-end reporting when necessary (e.g., W-2, W-2c)
Load import files received from HR (All Companies)
Research and email appropriate audience of file issues
Demonstrates compliance with all bank regulations for assigned job function and applies to designated job responsibilities – knowledge may be gained through coursework and on-the-job training.
Keeps up to date on regulation changes.
Follows all Bank policies and procedures, compliance regulations, and completes all required annual or job-specific training.
Maintain a working knowledge of Bank's written policies and procedures regarding Bank Secrecy Act, Regulation CC, Regulation E, Bank Security and other regulations as applicable to this job description.
May be asked to coach, mentor, or train others and teach coursework as subject matter expert.
Actively learns, demonstrates, and fosters the Columbia corporate culture in all actions and words.
Takes personal initiative and is a positive example for others to emulate.
Embraces our vision to become “Business Bank of Choice”
May perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

competitive total rewards package including base wages and comprehensive benefits
comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision plans)
a 401(k)-retirement savings plan with employer match for qualifying associate contributions
an employee assistance program
life insurance
disability insurance
tuition assistance
mental health resources
identity theft protection
legal support
auto and home insurance
pet insurance
access to an online discount marketplace
paid vacation
sick days
volunteer days
holidays