Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist

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Payroll Specialist

Salary

$77,667.20 - $96,803.20 Annually

Location

Eugene, OR

Job Type

Full-Time Regular

Job Number

04312

Department

Central Services Department

Division

Finance

Opening Date

11 / 17 / 2025

Closing Date

11 / 30 / 2025 5 : 15 PM Pacific

Description

Benefits

Questions

General Statement of Duties

Join Our Team as a Payroll Specialist!

Are you detail-oriented and passionate about accuracy? We’re looking for a Payroll Specialist to process and manage payroll for all city employees. In this vital role, you’ll handle complex transactions, ensure compliance with tax and labor laws, maintain payroll records, and collaborate with departments to deliver timely and precise payroll services. From reconciling accounts to preparing W-2s, your expertise will help keep our city running smoothly. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy solving problems, we want to hear from you!

Application Deadline : Sunday, November 30, 2025, at 5 p.m. P.T.

Accepting Online Applications Only

Information on How to Apply ()

Classification : Payroll Specialist ()

Salary : $37.34 - $46.54 hourly / $77,667.20 - $96,803.20 Annually

The City of Eugene determines starting pay within the range based on relevant education and experience as provided by the applicant in their application materials. This process is consistent with the Oregon Equal Pay Act (OEPA () ).

Department, Division : Central Services, Finance

Union Representation : American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) ()

Work Location : 500 East 4th Avenue, Eugene, OR

Schedule : Monday - Friday, 8 : 00 a.m. - 5 : 00 p.m. with the flexibility per business need

Benefits : The City of Eugene offers robust and competitive benefits. For more information, select the Benefits Tab, or view benefits summaries () as well as see information about all employee benefits () .

Bilingual Pay Benefit : This position qualifies for up to an additional 5% of base salary for bilingual pay. Please see “Supplemental Information” at the end of the posting for more information.

Living & Working in Eugene : Information about living in Eugene, how the City of Eugene operates, and more can be found on our website () .

Examples of Duties Performed - Duties may include but are not limited to the following

Processes payroll for all city employees, audits, and maintains timesheets and all payroll database changes; verifies and maintains leave balance in various comp plan buckets; calculates and prorates salary and leave benefit amounts.

Coordinates with the Employee Resource Center (ERC) and departments to ensure timely and accurate data.

Maintains employee payroll records and implements payroll deductions for garnishments, tax levies and child support enforcement orders. Processes complex transactions including, but not limited to, severance, incentive, and settlement payments.

Researches, responds to, analyzes, and resolves various employee, department, and management inquiries and / or complaints related to payroll processing.

Generates and audits payroll register. Researches and resolves discrepancies and errors. Ensures system calculations are accurate and takes appropriate corrective action when needed.

Electronic maintenance and submission of payroll documentation for recordkeeping and benefits and tax reporting.

Balances, reconciles, and processes ACH or check payments to various agencies including; IRS, Oregon Department of Revenue, garnishments, Union dues, United Way, workers' compensation and other agencies. Develops and / or implements reporting mechanisms to meet the various requirements of each agency. Performs payroll account reconciliations and payroll audits.

Balances, reconciles, and submits required monthly, quarterly, and annual tax reporting. Prepares and distributes W-2 forms, according to state and federal laws each year.

Assists with research, analysis and preparation of personnel or payroll information for management including assistance with payroll budgeting.

Assists in the operation and management of the City's payroll system by recommending payroll process improvements, monitoring policies and procedures, providing training to supporting payroll personnel, working with Information Systems regarding payroll enhancements and performing testing to protect the accuracy and integrity of payroll information and system.

Prepares, reviews, and processes year-end W-2 statements; prepares related reports for dissemination to applicable federal agencies. Interpret and ensure compliance with local, state and federal laws related impacting the payroll program. Maintain proper audit trail. Follow and apply rules and regulation for the PERS retirement program

Interprets and applies relevant program / department information in making work decisions or in providing information to others; research, explain and enforce codes and other laws, if applicable, including problem resolution.

In an emergency event or an officially declared State of Emergency, responds as directed to ensure the restoration of essential public services, facilities and infrastructure.

Performs administrative support duties including keyboarding, editing and proofing correspondence and other materials; composes routine correspondence. Performs data entry as necessary.

Actively supports and respects diversity in the workplace. Performs other related duties as assigned.

To view detailed information on the duties, knowledge, and abilities that may be expected for this position, please see the classification : Payroll Specialist ()

Qualifications

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they are able to perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job , and that candidate may be one who comes with relevant transferable skills from a variety of sources and experiences. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

When screening your application, the City will consider an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience which provides the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to meet minimum qualifications for this position.

Minimum Qualifications

Experience

A minimum of two years progressively responsible payroll experience using computerized accounting systems.

Training

High school diploma or GED equivalent and one year of vocational or college-level accounting training.

Background

Must pass a background check.

The ideal candidate will have the following knowledge, skills, and abilities

Knowledge

Professional payroll knowledge as related to the City payroll program.

Payroll principles and practices, including processes, terminology, and policies; including knowledge of relevant department, and / or other jurisdiction programs.

Effective program principles and practices, and strategic planning methods for payroll. Governmental accounting, auditing practices and principles applicable to work performed.

Basic data processing systems and input methods including familiarity with various personal computer software packages.

Office administrative support work, methods, procedures and equipment.

Abilities

Organize and prioritize payroll or accounting projects to meet deadlines with minimal supervision while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

Analyze and interpret complex financial data and develop recommendations to improve payroll routines and procedures.

Operate standard office equipment such as calculator, personal computer, and multiple function devices.

Interpret and apply relevant payroll information in making work decisions or in providing information to others; research, explain and enforce codes and other laws, if applicable, including problem resolution.

Assign and review the work of others.

Establish effective working relationships with employees and other agencies. Evaluate and solve procedural problems impacting payroll.

Skills

Apply bookkeeping and accounting principles to prepare accurate and timely financial statements, annual reports and detailed account records.

Create electronic spreadsheets.

Supplemental Information

What to Expect from our Selection Process

Applicants are screened based upon their relevant knowledge, abilities, skills, experience, and training. The selection process varies according to the position and can include such things as screening of supplemental questionnaires, written or skill tests, ability or fitness tests, interviews, and assessment processes. In addition, background investigations and records checks may be required. Some positions also require applicants to have a psychological evaluation and / or physical examination and a drug test prior to employment. Marijuana use is evaluated consistent with current state law regulations. PLEASE NOTE : Once the posting closes, the process can take 4-6 weeks to complete.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The City of Eugene is committed to a respectful work environment. We value the cultural, educational, and life experiences of each employee. We believe that a diverse workforce enables us to deliver culturally responsive services to all members of our community. As part of our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion we desire to welcome, respect, and create a sense of belonging for a wide range of identities and experiences in our workforce. Women, people with disabilities, and persons of color are strongly encouraged to apply.

The City of Eugene complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Any applicant with a qualified disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request accommodation by contacting an employment coordinator at (541) 682-5061.

In compliance with the immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the City of Eugene will request all eligible candidates who accept employment with the City to provide documentation to prove they are eligible for employment in the United States. NOTE : The City of Eugene does not participate in the E-Verify program; therefore, candidates requiring E-Verify for employment authorization will not be eligible for employment with the City.

If a job posting indicates this position is temporary (not limited duration) then the employee serves at will. Temporary employees do not receive benefits through the City of Eugene unless required by City, State or Federal code / statute.

Representation

Employees in this classification are represented by American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), and their salaries may be subject to a monthly payroll deduction after 31 days of employment.

Salary and Benefits

The normal starting salary is the first step shown on the posting. Other placement in the salary range may be considered depending on qualifications and experience. Periodic advancement through the salary range is dependent upon merit. The City provides a full range of benefits, including holidays, vacation, sick leave, retirement benefit, and life insurance. Health, dental, and vision benefits are available.

To view a summary of benefits () , benefit premium rates () , and / or the AFSCME contract () click the respective link. Click here to view information about Total Worker Health () .