Human Resources Generalist - Payroll

Human Resources Generalist - Payroll

Northshore Utility District in Kenmore, Washington is seeking a Human Resources Generalist - Payroll. This position is open until filled. The first-round candidate review will be June 3, 2026, and may be closed at any time a qualified candidate is selected. Work Schedule: M-F, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or 9/80 schedule (M-Th 7:00am – 4:30pm, Fri. 7:00am – 3:30pm with every other Fri. off) Under general supervision the HR Generalist- Payroll is responsible for processing and maintaining the District's "in-house" payroll and supporting a broad range of human resources functions. This position processes semi-monthly payroll, maintains payroll records, compliance reporting, administer leaves, and coordinates human resources activities including benefits administration, assists in recruitment, onboarding, training, employee records management, and policy compliance. The incumbent serves as a resource to employees and management regarding payroll and human resources matters while ensuring compliance with District policies and applicable laws and regulations. Reporting Directly To: Human Resources Manager

Examples of Duties:

• Process and maintain accurate semi-monthly "in-house" payroll, including timesheets, leave balances, deductions, garnishments, adjustments, and final pay calculations.
• Prepare payroll reports, reconciliations, tax filings, and related documentation for submission to applicable agencies.
• Research and resolve payroll discrepancies and respond to employee payroll-related inquiries.
• Ensure payroll practices comply with applicable federal and state laws, regulations, and policies.
• Perform routine tasks required to administer and execute employee benefits, leave programs, training, and other human resources programs and activities.
• Administer employee leave programs including FMLA, ADA accommodations, paid family leave, and workers' compensation.
• Assist in coordinating recruitment activities including job posting, applicant tracking, interview scheduling, candidate communications and onboarding processes.
• Maintain accurate and confidential personnel, medical, payroll, and training records in accordance with legal requirements and records retention standards.
• Coordinate, review, track, and document compliance with mandatory and non-mandatory training, continuing education, and work assessments.
• Interpret and explain District policies, procedures, benefits, and employment-related regulations to employees and applicants.
• Maintain current knowledge of payroll regulations, employment laws, and HR best practices to support compliance.
• Assist with policy development, updates, and implementation.
• Provide responsive and professional customer service and support to employees, applicants, and management regarding payroll and human resources matters.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Payroll and benefits compliance with tax regulations, and reporting requirements.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of payroll administration, record keeping, reporting, mathematical and basic knowledge of accounting.
• Interpret, explain, and apply payroll policies and procedures, State and Federal laws, and regulations related to payroll.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities in a timely manner.
• Skill in using initiative and independent judgment within established guidelines.
• Must possess advance Excel knowledge, including the use of pivot tables, data analysis, filtering/sorting datasets, and reporting.
• Proficient organizational skills and problem solving.
• Knowledge of pertinent Federal and State laws and regulations related to areas of Human Resources, including FLSA, ADA, FMLA, EEOC, and other employment-related laws and regulations.
• Strong communication skills (oral and written); including the ability to compose professional correspondence.
• Ability to maintain and establish effective and cooperative working relationships with District employees, public and public officials and to work as a positive team member.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and maintain confidentiality.
• Thorough knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Experience/Education:

• Four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in payroll and human resources administration, including payroll processing, benefit administration, recruitment, leave management, and employee records management.
• A combination of education and experience that provides the requisite knowledge, skills and ability required to successfully perform the duties of this position.

Licensing Requirements:

• Valid Washington State Driver's License preferred not required.

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily performed in a standard office environment. This position requires frequent use of a computer and standard office equipment, including repetitive hand and finger motions for typing and data entry. The role requires the ability to communicate effectively through talking and hearing, as well as sufficient visual acuity to perform job duties. The employee must be able to move about the office environment to attend meetings, access work areas, and interact with staff. This may include standing, walking, bending or reaching as needed. Occasional lifting or carrying of objects up to 25 pounds may be required. Occasional travel may be required for meetings, training or other job-related activities. A valid Washington State driver's license is preferred but not required; alternative arrangements may be made for transportation when necessary if cost and time reasonably matches. After-hours work may be required in response to urgent or time-sensitive needs.

Benefits:

Medical, Dental, & Vision Employees have various medical plan options to choose from – either managed care plans or preferred provider plans. The Employer pays 100% of the premium costs for employees & their eligible dependents for most plan options.

HRA/VEBA Employees who have completed their Trial Service Period will receive an employer contribution into their HRA/VEBA account. The contributions equal $2,000 for employee medical coverage and $4,000 for employee plus eligible dependent.

Flexible Spending Accounts Save money in taxes by using the Flexible Spending Accounts to pay for eligible health care or dependent care expenses on a pre-tax basis.

Retirement Plans Public Employee's Retirement System (PERS) As a public employer, most of our employees are eligible for retirement benefits administered by the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems. Employees have two plans to choose from.

Deferred Compensation 457 (b) and Roth plan. Optional deferred compensation plan allows eligible employees to contribute to their account through payroll deductions. The Employer matches up to 2% contributions into your selected plan.

Paid Time Off / Work Schedule We offer a competitive time off program that includes vacation based on years of service, 8 hours/month accrued sick leave, and 13 paid holiday. We offer two schedules for our employees. Your traditional Monday - Friday 8:00am -4:30pm or a 9/80 schedule to foster a healthy work life balance.

Term & Accident Insurance Employer paid and optional term life and accident insurance help protect against financial hardship in the event of serious injury or death.

Employee Assistance Program Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available via a 24-hour hotline. The EAP provides no-cost, confidential assistance for a variety of personal and professional issues, including stress, financial challenges, work-related issues, or marital and family counseling.

Training & Development We have a rich history of training and development for our employees. We encourage our employees to realize their full potential and offer a variety of ways to advance their careers through internal, external, and on-the-job training opportunities, as well as tuition reimbursement and mentorship.