Payroll Administrator

Applications will be reviewed as received and this job may close at any time. Payroll Administrator processes payroll and technical transactions for Grays Harbor County. This position works closely with the Benefits Coordinator to maintain payroll and benefit compliance. The primary purpose of this position is to ensure payroll functions are accurately performed in a timely manner. The position will assist with the transition of payroll and benefits to the Munis Software system as well as assist with balancing and running parallel payroll systems during the transition to the new software system. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Processes payroll and technical transactions for County departments, in compliance with all applicable Federal, state and county rules, regulations and procedures. Provide for deposit of payroll, payroll taxes, and withholdings in a timely manner. Develops systems and protocols to direct the collection, calculation entering of pay data for County Departments, special districts, and outside agencies. Reviews and checks payroll information submitted by other County departments or agencies, insures it is input into the data processing system, and verifies the output. Enters payroll, benefits, and related data into computer systems, and maintains information system database; enters data, processes transactions, validates data, and compiles documentation. Reviews source documents for compliance to rules and regulations; determines proper handling of payroll and technical transactions within designated limits; reports discrepancies. Interacts with Central Services on payroll system functions and coordinates implementation of payroll modifications. Checks documents for validity and accuracy of information; performs mathematical calculations; records, files and distributes related paperwork and technical documents for payroll and benefit records separately. (Employee, I-9, Direct Deposit, etc.) Reviews payroll records and corrects errors as required; assures the accuracy of the payroll and accounting records. Collects payroll and compiles data for reports; identifies and researches payroll issues, and recommends solutions; prepares and distributes required reports in a timely manner. Provides information and assistance to employees as authorized; responds to requests for information, and attempts to resolve them by researching files and records within the scope of authority; refers matters requiring policy interpretation to supervisor for resolution. Assures that all reports and paperwork are completed in a timely manner; updates, corrects, retrieves and releases information according to procedures. Maintains updated procedure manual for payroll processing and assists in training of other staff on the payroll system. Direct general user questions and basic technical issues to the help desk. Keeps record of current payroll tax requirements and relevant laws associated with the processing of employee wage data, including payroll taxes, employee federal income and social security taxes, and other required reporting. (SUI, L&I, PFML, Deferred benefits, LTC, etc.) Processes quarterly and fiscal year-end reports and reconciliations of 941 & W-2’s information for balancing, accuracy, and distribution. Retains documentation of payroll discrepancies throughout the year. Works with Human Resources and departments to coordinate employee leaves of absence under FLMA or other unpaid leaves to ensure level of benefits remain in place and costs/deductions are understood by all parties. When requested, verifies wages to assist Risk Management with L & I claims. Process wage garnishments, pay levies, and other involuntary court-ordered payments in a timely manner, including reporting to the necessary State office or jurisdiction and assisting employees with general process questions. Updates and balances payroll expenditures monthly. Makes corrections as needed for other department. Reconciles and maintains payroll clearing fund. Annually provides unclaimed warrants to Auditor’s office. Creates Annual Payroll Processing calendar. Provides back up to Benefits Coordinator as needed. Attends workshops, online trainings and seminars to gain greater knowledge of County payroll and benefit requirements. Preforms other related duties as required and assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of accounting principles as they apply to payroll and benefits. Skilled in using computers and related payroll software applications for record keeping and reporting. Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relations with staff, County departments and officials, court personnel, outside agencies and the general public. Skilled in prioritizing work activities and using time efficiently. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Ability to interpret and explain county policies and procedures to guide staff in accomplishing activities. Ability to analyze and solve complex problems pertaining to payroll and benefits. Ability to accomplish tasks under minimal supervision. Ability to multi-task and maintain composure under pressure. Ability to effectively use software applications such as Adobe Pro and Microsoft Office. Education and Experience: (Required) High school diploma or GED. Two year accounting or business certificate. Two years of experience may be substituted for each college year. At least two years’ experience in payroll preparation OR an equivalent combination of education and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and skills to perform this major functions of this position. At least two years’ experience in governmental accounting to include payroll, budgeting, accounts payable or general ledger. Certificates, Licenses & Registrations A valid Washington State Driver’s license and acceptable driving record. Ability to obtain and maintain First Aid, CPR, and Defensive Driving certifications. WORKING CONDITIONS Work is primarily performed in an office environment. Physical requirements include sitting, standing, walking, reaching, pushing, pulling, a sense of touch, finger dexterity, ability to grip with hands and fingers, ability to speak and the ability to read. Occasionally, there is a need to lift up to 20 lbs. The statements contained herein reflect general details describing the principal functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skills typically required, and the scope of responsibility. They are not an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise to balance the workload. GRAYS HARBOR COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER #J-18808-Ljbffr