Payroll Officer (Public Sector) – Large Scale Government Agency

About the Company

The Multnomah County Department of Finance is a cornerstone of county operations, responsible for managing the financial health and integrity of a diverse range of public services. Our team ensures fiscal accountability, transparency, and efficiency in supporting the county’s mission to serve its residents. We are committed to fostering a supportive and professional environment where employees can grow and contribute significantly to public welfare.

Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Payroll Officer to join our dynamic finance team within a large-scale government agency. This pivotal role involves managing complex payroll processes for a significant number of employees, ensuring accuracy, compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and timely compensation. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of public sector payroll intricacies and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of financial integrity and service delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly payroll for a large employee base, including wages, benefits, taxes, and deductions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations, including union contracts and collective bargaining agreements.
• Reconcile payroll data and resolve discrepancies in a timely and accurate manner.
• Prepare and submit payroll reports to internal and external stakeholders, including tax agencies and retirement systems.
• Manage and update employee payroll records, including new hires, terminations, and changes in compensation or benefits.
• Respond to and resolve employee payroll inquiries, providing clear and accurate information.
• Assist with year-end payroll activities, including W-2 preparation and distribution.
• Utilize and maintain payroll software and systems, ensuring data integrity and system optimization.
• Collaborate with Human Resources and other departments to ensure seamless integration of payroll-related processes.

Required Skills

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in payroll processing, preferably within the public sector or a large organization.
• Proficiency in payroll software and HRIS systems.
• Strong understanding of federal, state, and local payroll laws, tax regulations, and accounting principles.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., VLOOKUP, pivot tables) and other Office applications.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation.
• Experience with Oracle PeopleSoft or similar large-scale ERP systems.
• Knowledge of public sector benefits and retirement systems (e.g., PERS).

Perks & Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays).
• Participation in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS).
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Employee assistance program.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Wellness programs and initiatives.

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