Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist Due to retirement in 2027 the City of Hutchinson is seeking a highly skilled, dependable, and detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join our Human Resources team. This position is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing for City employees while supporting payroll compliance, benefits and deduction administration, HRIS/payroll system management, reporting, and employee assistance. This position is expected to begin in September, with training provided alongside the current Payroll Specialist through March 2027. This is an excellent opportunity for a payroll professional who brings strong technical expertise, sound judgment, and a commitment to accuracy, service, and confidentiality in a fast-paced public-sector environment. The Payroll Specialist plays a critical role in the City's payroll operations and will: Process accurate bi-weekly payroll Review and audit employee timesheets Manage payroll records, deductions, and benefit-related reconciliations Prepare and support required payroll reporting, including tax and compliance filings Maintain and troubleshoot payroll and timekeeping systems Assist employees and supervisors with payroll-related questions Help improve payroll workflows, reporting, and system processes Ensure payroll practices remain compliant with applicable laws, regulations, labor agreements, and City policies We are seeking a candidate with excellent expertise in high-level payroll systems such as UKG. The ideal candidate will also have: Strong experience in payroll processing and payroll system administration An excellent understanding of payroll legalities, including wage and hour compliance, payroll taxes, deductions, garnishments, and benefits-related payroll requirements Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities The ability to learn quickly, think through processes carefully, and stay focused on the quality of the end product A high level of confidentiality, accuracy, and attention to detail Strong communication and customer service skills This role requires a professional who is prepared to: Handle stress effectively in a deadline-driven payroll environment Report to work on time and consistently Manage multiple priorities with accuracy and professionalism Adapt quickly to system updates, process changes, and compliance requirements Work independently while maintaining strong collaboration with others Preference may be given to candidates with experience in: Public-sector or municipal payroll KPERS / KP&F payroll reporting and deductions Union environments or payroll administration involving labor agreements Qualifications: Minimum 5 years of payroll administration experience in a high-volume, large-company environment is preferred Associate's degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Business, or related field is preferred. Valid Kansas driver's license Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification preferred. Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a background check The City of Hutchinson is a KPERS covered employer and offers a competitive salary, paid time off, comprehensive health benefits and additional retirement options.