Payroll Assistant

Job Title

Payroll Specialist

Job Description

Under general supervision of the Human Resources Director, this confidential level position provides a wide variety of complex payroll accounting and reporting, with the major priority of assisting with the preparation and processing semi-monthly payroll for the City of Centralia. This position also assists in supporting Human Resources by answering questions regarding personnel programs, policies, union agreements and procedures, benefit enrollment and administration, management of personnel and negotiation records, participation in contract negotiations, advice to managers and other employees.

This class description reflects the general concept and intent of the classification and should not be construed as a detailed statement of all the work requirements that may be inherent in a position.

Education and experience: An associate's degree with major course work in accounting, finance, bookkeeping, business admin, human resources or a related field and two years of progressively responsible experience in payroll, human resources, bookkeeping, labor relations or a related field or any combination of experience and education which provides the applicant with the desired skills, knowledge, and ability required to perform the duties. Recent payroll experience and working with collective bargaining agreements for a public agency is strongly desired.

Additional requirements: Current WA State Driver's License with acceptable driving record is required. Applicant must pass background check and provide acceptable credit report.

Application process: To apply please submit a City of Centralia employment application which can be found at cityofcentralia.com/Jobs.aspx to: Human Resources Office, PO Box 609 / 118 W Maple, Centralia, WA 98531 or e-mail by August 11, 2026 by 5 pm. Postmarks not accepted. Note: Resumes may be submitted, but will NOT be accepted in lieu of the City's application form.

Benefits

Vacation and sick leave accruals, 12 paid holidays which includes one (1) floating holiday

Medical, dental and vision insurance options

City paid $105,000 life insurance

Long-term disability plan

Washington State Retirement Systems (PERS)

Participation in VEBA (Health Reimbursement Account)

Employee Assistance Program

Choice of two (2) Employee contributed Deferred Compensation Plans

Eligible for longevity premium pay