Payroll Specialist

Reports To Director of Financial Services Status Full Time, FLSA Non-Exempt Work Hours: 40 Hours per week / may include additional time not limited to meetings, committees, external interaction events, and duties as assigned by the Director of Financial Services. Employment Status At-Will Position Summary The district seeks a dedicated Payroll Specialist to process payroll for all district employees across multiple locations, assist with benefits administration, and ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations. This position will handle complex payroll scenarios, including overtime calculations, shift differentials, and multiple pay schedules, while maintaining strict confidentiality and accuracy. Immediate Supervisor(s) The Payroll Specialist shall work under the direct supervision of the Director of Financial Services. Supervisory Authority This position has no supervisory functions. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Process semi-weekly payroll for all employees, including operations (line) personnel, and administrative staff. Calculate and process overtime, holiday pay, shift differentials, and special assignment pay according to labor agreements and policies. Maintain accurate employee records, including personnel payroll files. Process enrollments, terminations, and status changes in coordination with HR. Ensure compliance with pension contributions, reporting requirements, and member services. Process pension related inquiries and coordinate with account representatives. Process wage garnishments, tax levies, union dues, and other payroll deductions. Maintain accurate records and ensure proper remittance to appropriate agencies. Assist with outsourced preparation and filing quarterly payroll tax reports, including federal, state, and local requirements. Process year-end tax documents including W-2s, 1099s, and other required forms. Reconcile payroll accounts and prepare payroll-related journal entries. Coordinate with the Director of Financial Services to ensure accurate financial reporting. Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, leave balances, and payroll-related matters. Provide excellent customer service while maintaining confidentiality. Support time and attendance tracking systems and processes. Coordinate with supervisors to resolve discrepancies and ensure accurate time reporting. Stay current with federal and state payroll laws, regulations, and best practices. Ensure district policies comply with legal requirements. Assist with accounts payable and receivables, audit preparation, system implementations, and other projects as assigned by the Finance Director. Minimum Experience/Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent; Associate's degree in Business, Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field preferred Minimum 3-5 years of payroll processing experience, preferably in government or multi-location environment Thorough knowledge of federal and Colorado state payroll laws and regulations Proficiency in payroll software systems and Microsoft Office Suite Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and calculations Excellent organizational and time management skills with ability to meet strict deadlines Strong customer service and communication skills Ability to handle confidential information with the utmost discretion High level of professionalism and integrity Ability to work independently and as part of a team Preferred Qualifications Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation or willingness to obtain Experience with government payroll, FPPA reporting, and public sector benefits Knowledge of fire/EMS scheduling, compensation practices, and labor agreements Experience with time and attendance systems and biometric timekeeping Experience with accounts payable and receivable Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) or similar professional certification Working Environment/Physical Requirements A substantial portion of this position involves sedentary, administrative work in an office environment This position requires sitting for extended periods and frequently using computers, calculators, and office equipment Requires frequent use of senses, including sight, touch, hearing, and speech Requires daily presence in the office during regular business hours, particularly during payroll processing periods Work involves periods of high mental and/or emotional stress, particularly during payroll cycles and year-end processing This position requires the ability to read, write, speak, and understand the English language at a level adequate to perform the job Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays on occasion as needed ACFR Benefits Our benefits package includes sixteen hours of sick leave per month, vacation pay, paid holidays, enrollment in the Statewide firefighter pension plan (12% employee/10.5% employer contribution), option to enroll and contribute in 457/Roth retirement savings plan, department 457 match up to 4%, longevity pay starting at five years of employment, higher education reimbursement, vision, dental, health, and life insurance. Annual Salary Range $72,500 - $85,000 (depending on skills/qualifications) #J-18808-Ljbffr Colorado Government Finance Officers Association