Payroll Specialist

Under general supervision and direction of the Assistant Finance Director, this person is responsible for the preparation and distribution of payroll including all associated payroll functions and reports. Responsibilities also include maintaining cash receipts and accounts receivable records and assisting with the utility billing function of the City.These examples are intended only as illustrations of various types of work performed and are not necessarily all inclusive. The job description is subject to change as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. Duties include but are not limited to:

• Perform computer/data processing activities including data entry for the city's payroll function.
• Provide information, assistance, and explanation on payroll matters to employees and the public.
• Process the payroll, resolve payroll problems, manage payroll adjustments, and calculate separation pay.
• Prepare and distribute payroll reports required for federal, state, and other governmental agencies (FICA, PERA, insurance, unions).
• Balance, sort, and distribute payroll reports, W2s, and year-end payroll reports.
• Create, update, and maintain employee records on salary, benefits, deductions, ABTs, vacation and sick leave usage, COBRA/Chapter 488 benefits, etc.
• Prepare audit reports and schedules and compile and disseminate other financial reports and information as directed.
• Use routine and complex features of word processing, spreadsheet and database packages.
• Enter and balance daily cash receipts.
• Maintain escrow, deposit and invoice records.
• Provide training and mentorship to other finance department staff, ensuring adherence to best practices and facilitating knowledge transfer of complex payroll issues.
• Backup other finance functions, including utility billing and accounts payable.
• Perform other payroll activities including the calculation of FLSA for overtime pay purposes, assisting with the annual workers compensation audit, and reconciling payroll activity to bank activity.
• Administer the electronic timekeeping system.
• Research City policy, union agreements, separation agreements, and any other related sources to ensure proper pay.
• Provide technical and administrative assistance to city personnel by producing various payroll reports, research payroll, and compensation.

• Thorough knowledge of bookkeeping and accounting practices and procedures.
• Thorough knowledge of payroll functions and operations.
• Thorough knowledge of data processing practices and procedures.
• Skill, ability, and proficiency in spreadsheets, databases, and word processing.
• Skill and efficiency in the operation of office and data processing equipment and calculator.
• Ability to perform clerical accounting work requiring accuracy, speed, and repetitive activities.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff and the public.
• Ability to deal tactfully, confidently, and effectively with all City personnel, outside agencies, and the public, both in person and on the telephone.
• Ability to communicate effectively, in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to operate data processing functions for Microsoft Office based personal computer.
• Ability to perform general clerical work requiring confidentiality, concentration, organization, and judgment in interpreting practices and procedures to meet problems.

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• One year of progressively responsible experience in payroll and/or accounting.
• One year of experience in spreadsheet applications.

Desirable Requirements

• Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance or related field.
• Two years of experience in a payroll capacity.
• Municipal experience as a payroll specialist/clerk.
• Experience with Tyler Technologies Operating System.

Supervision of Others

• N/A

 
Physical Requirements

• Positions in this class typically require: feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, reading and repetitive motions.
• Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force very infrequently to move objects.

 
Conditions of Employment

• Must possess a valid Class D driver’s license with a good driving record.
• Must successfully complete a PD background check, drivers check and reference check.

Application Materials

• To complete an application please click on the green apply button at the top of this posting.

• For a paper application stop at City Hall, located at 10801 Town Square Drive NE, Blaine, MN 55449, and request a paper copy from Human Resources.

The position description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and the requirements of the job change. 

The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.