Payroll Specialist

City of Indio•Indio, CA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Payroll Specialist is a confidential position that performs responsible journey level para-professional technical fiscal work; prepares and processes the bi-weekly payroll and related taxes; performs responsible accounting, administrative and technical duties for City payroll; and performs routine financial analysis. This classification is the confidential advanced/journey level classification in which incumbents are expected to perform the most complex paraprofessional payroll assignments and technical financial assignments. This classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Senior Finance Technician in that the latter is a professional level class responsible for the more complex, responsible, difficult and technical accounting duties.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
Three years of responsible paraprofessional accounting experience.
One year of hands-on payroll processing experience is highly desirable.
Possession of a valid Class C California driver's license.
Knowledge of modern principles and practices of financial record keeping, report writing, bookkeeping, business license and basic governmental accounting.
Knowledge of research methods and procedures.
Knowledge of standard office and administrative procedures and practices.
Knowledge of bank deposits and cash handling procedures.
Knowledge of computer operations and databases.
Knowledge of basic principles of mathematics.
Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
Knowledge of methods and techniques of scheduling work assignments.
Knowledge of standard office procedures, practices, and equipment.
Knowledge of modern office practices, methods, and equipment, including a computer and applicable software.
Knowledge of methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation and writing.
Knowledge of proper English, spelling, and grammar.
Knowledge of occupational hazards and standard safety practices.
Skill to operate an office computer and a variety of word processing, spreadsheet and software applications, including payroll, billing, receivables, payables and other financial systems.
Ability to prepare, maintain, and reconcile various financial, payroll, accounting, and statistical records.
Ability to administer and enforce the City's business license and purchasing provisions.
Ability to process applications and all related documents.
Ability to learn and excel in computer applications and software for accounts receivable and payable, and governmental reporting.
Ability to keep accurate payroll records.
Ability to respond to questions from the public and City staff regarding policies and procedures.
Ability to perform mathematical calculations quickly and accurately.
Ability to interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, codes, and regulations.
Ability to read, interpret, and record data accurately.
Ability to organize, prioritize, and follow-up on work assignments.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to make sound decisions within established guidelines.
Ability to analyze a complex issue and develop and implement an appropriate response.
Ability to follow written and oral directions.
Ability to observe safety principles and work in a safe manner.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Nice To Haves

One year of hands-on payroll processing experience.
American Payroll Association Certificate is desirable.

Responsibilities

Performs the bi-weekly payroll process, ensuring accurate and timely preparation, verification, and processing for all City employees, elected officials, boards, and commissioners, including reviewing personnel actions, employment agreements, timesheets, and time-entry submissions for compliance and accuracy.
Prepares and assists with weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, and annual payroll reports and supports completion of required Federal, State, Local and other agencies reporting for taxes, compensation, benefits, and audits.
Coordinates payroll activities with City departments and provides technical assistance regarding payroll reporting, documentation requirements, and problem resolution.
Monitors payroll data for accuracy, compliance, and alignment with policy, and assist in troubleshooting payroll system issues.
Performs quarterly and year-end payroll processing and responds to employee inquiries regarding deductions and payroll matters.
Prepares and processes payroll-related calculations including taxes, deductions, benefits, leave transactions, levies, garnishments, workers’ compensation, advances, and other required adjustments.
Reconciles payroll activity, payroll accounts, and related transactions within the general ledger to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable laws, MOUs, and City policies.
Maintain and process special payroll functions such as buy-backs, retirement reports, and special checks.
Assist in maintaining payroll and accounting systems and procedures; coordinates and tests implementation of changes relating to MOUs, legislation, tax tables, and other pay-related updates.
Provides technical and administrative support to Finance Operations and to the Finance Analyst.
Research, compiles, and prepares payroll and accounting-related documentation, analyses, and supporting records.
Complete special payroll-related projects assigned.
May compile payroll analyses or reports in support of collective bargaining processes as requested.
Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, state/local agencies and associations, staff, and the public.
Answers telephone; route and screen calls; greet customers at counters and direct them to the proper location; respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner.
Receives payments, issues receipts, balance cash, prepare daily bank deposits, and replenish amounts; may post receipts to various City accounts and funds; may operate cash register, receive and posts payments for various fees.
Assist with audit and budget preparation.
Performs other related duties as required.