Payroll Specialist

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. 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). Work with vendor to maintain accuracy and integrity of data, identify and solve problems or opportunities for improvement, input and retrieve data, and ensure overall efficient operations of the system. 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. Qualifications Four 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. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr