Payroll Specialist

Job TitleUnder general supervision, to perform complex and technical payroll related clerical duties involving the preparation and maintenance of safety (Police and Fire) employee payroll system and payroll related personnel records; respond to payroll inquiries from employees and other staff in support of the payroll processing function; acts as administrator for automated scheduling system and; performs special projects or other work as required.Minimum QualificationsApplications will be accepted only from those applicants who properly complete the City application and clearly demonstrate on the application, supplemental questionnaire, and resume that they possess the minimum qualifications which include:Graduation from high school or GED program ANDThree (3) years of full-time journey-level clerical experience performing personnel, payroll, bookkeeping or fiscal activities. Two (2) years of experience must have included duties such as: using automated personnel, payroll, or timekeeping systems ORAn equivalent combination of training, certification, and experience, which provides the capabilities to perform the described job duties.Must be able to pass a police background check.HIGHLY DESIRABLE: Experience with Telestaff, public safety payroll/timekeeping, or any other 24/7 scheduling environment. Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work with payroll and timekeeping information, research and resolve discrepancies, and manage strict and recurring deadline.OTHER MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: As listed in the full job description link above.PRELIMINARY BACKGROUND QUESTIONNAIRE (PBQ): Prior to appointment, applicants must successfully complete a preliminary investigation of their personal history and background to determine suitability for this position with the Bakersfield Police Department. Qualified candidates will be required to submit a COMPLETED Preliminary Background Questionnaire by September 16th, 2026 (Tentative). Instructions will be provided at a later date.Examination (Weighted: 100%)An appraisal will be made of the applicant's education, training, experience, and personal qualifications for the position. A minimum passing score of 70% is required. NOTE: Admission to the Examination may be limited to those applicants who demonstrate the best combination of qualifications. Applicants possessing the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed admittance to the Examination. Employment applications must be properly completed in accordance with instructions on the application form. All pertinent information needed to determine that the applicant meets the minimum qualifications must be shown on the application, supplemental questionnaire, and resume; otherwise, the application may be rejected. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the COMPLETED application.BenefitsFull Summary of Benefits by Bargaining Unit:Blue & White Miscellaneous UnitFire Safety UnitPolice Safety UnitPolice Trainee UnitSupervisory & Management UnitINSURANCE: The City and the employee share contributions for premiums for health insurance coverage. The City provides life insurance benefits based on bargaining unit. Visit the Cityweb Employee Benefits page for detailed information (rates and plan information).RETIREMENT: Benefits are provided by the City's participation in the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). 2% @ 62 for new hire Miscellaneous and 2.7% @ 57 for Safety (Fire & Police). Visit the City's Retirement Info page for additional information.