Payroll Specialist

Payroll Processor

The City of St. Louis Park is guided by our strategic priorities to ensure that all city programs are fair, objective and meet the needs of the community we serve.

We are focused on hiring and retaining a highly competitive and skilled workforce that reflects a wide range of backgrounds and experiences while demonstrating a commitment to serving all residents with expertise and respect.

Job Summary

Responsible for processing payroll for all employees, maintaining records, processing and remitting required withholdings and deductions, and preparing and filing related reports. Provides excellent customer service regarding payroll activities and requires a high level of accuracy, focus, and commitment during biweekly payroll processing weeks, including the ability to work extended hours when necessary. This is a hybrid role working three days onsite and two days remote.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Responsible for processing bi-weekly payroll for city employees in accordance with approved pay plans and collective bargaining agreements, reviewing all data for content and accuracy.

• Create and update employee payroll records and master files.

• Verify and correct employee time sheets, process special payroll checks and adjustments such as termination checks and wage assignments.

• Balance, sort, distribute, prepare, reconcile, and file all payroll related reports including W2's, state and federal tax statements, PERA reports, and other year-end payroll reports.

• Answer all questions regarding employee payroll, payroll reports, and related issues.

• Maintain appropriate payroll records including taxes, retirement, PERA, garnishments and levies, child/spousal support orders, and others.

• Monitor federal and state tax changes and IRS regulations that affect city HR/payroll business operations.

• Process payments for annual cash out or transfer of accrued leave, uniform allowance, supplemental or assignment pay, and all other special payments.

• Provide input to help create and implement new payroll deductions and programs based on city policy and/or collective bargaining agreements.

• Responsible for entry, review, retrieval, and maintenance of payroll data in the city's payroll information system (JDEdwards).

• Process eligible reimbursement requests for tuition reimbursements and keep track of approved coursework and other related files.

• Prepare reports as needed including bi-weekly leave reports, monthly reports, audit reports and schedules, and quarterly statements. Research and provide information to supervisory personnel as requested concerning payroll related questions/problems.

• Assist in tracking and monitoring employee leaves of absence and other leave banks.

• Conduct written and oral employment verifications and other requests for payroll information in compliance with MN Data Practices Act.

Minimum Qualifications

• A combination of 4 years of hands on payroll processing experience or education in payroll, accounting, or related area.
• Computer proficiency, including word processing and spreadsheet applications.
• Ability to work independently, confidentially, and prioritize work with multiple deadlines.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks effectively under pressure created by constantly varying and conflicting demands and deadlines.

Desired Qualifications

• Four years of hands on payroll processing experience.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification.
• Strong working knowledge of payroll laws, federal/state tax regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Experience with Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
• Experience with running year end reports.
• Payroll experience in public sector with union environment.
• Experience with JD Edwards HRIS program.

Invitations to interview will be based upon an assessment of education and experience. Applications and questions must be filled out completely for consideration.

This position is eligible for a competitive benefits package.