Payroll Systems Analyst (UC)

The City of Santa Ana is looking for individuals who are results-oriented, possess great attitude, demonstrate creativity and innovation, work efficiently, show a record of success and have a passion for public service. Having highly talented employees provides the best service to our community.

Performs a variety of professional technical duties related to the configuration, maintenance, and administration of the City’s human resources and payroll system. Supports the Payroll Division within the Finance and Management Services Department and ensures compliance with applicable policies, labor laws, and related regulations.

There is currently one (1) vacancy under Finance and Management Services within the Payroll Division.

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received.  The deadline for the first review of applications is 11:59 p.m. on November 11, 2026.  Applicants are encouraged to submit applications early. Applicants who submit applications after the first review deadline are not guaranteed to be considered for this recruitment.  This recruitment may close at any time without notice after the first review deadline.

Minimum qualifications may be met via an equivalent combination of experience and education sufficient to perform the essential job functions. Experience and education must provide the listed knowledge, skills, and abilities.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Experience: Three (3) years of professional experience in administering and configuring human resources and payroll systems.

Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in public administration, business administration, computer science, finance, or a related field.

Special Requirements: 

• Must be available to work evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays, as required.
• May require the possession and retention of a valid driver’s license, or ability to use alternative transportation that reasonably meets operational needs.

Highly Desirable: Supervisory or lead work experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

• Federal, state, and local regulations related to payroll, including taxation, FLSA, and PERS.
• Public sector payroll processes and personnel administration. 
• Payroll and human resources and payroll system configuration.
• Principles of supervision, training, and performance management. 
• Payroll policy development, labor agreements, and administrative processes.
• Statistical analysis and data evaluation methods.
• Proper English usage, grammar, and punctuation. 
• Records management, retention practices, and data security.
• Modern office software and equipment.

Skill in:

• Managing and configuring payroll systems effectively.
• Problem solving and troubleshooting system issues.
• Creating and managing payroll queries, reports, and interface files.
• Using personal computers and business software, including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel.

Ability to:

• Analyze and resolve human resources and payroll system related issues.
• Understand and interpret personnel rules, benefit structures, and labor agreements.
• Understand and apply Citywide and departmental codes, policies, and procedures, and regulations applicable to payroll administration. 
• Implement, test, and document system adjustments and improvements.
• Research, analyze, and evaluate data, make process improvements, and implement recommendations.
• Select, supervise, train, and evaluate staff.
• Perform payroll calculations accurately. 
• Develop and deliver training to system users.
• Communicate clearly, concisely, and tactfully, both orally and in writing. 
• Analyze complex issues and effectively solve problems. 
• Work independently and as part of a team.
• Prioritize multiple projects and tasks to meet deadlines. 
• Maintain recordkeeping in compliance with retention policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with City employees, outside parties, and those contacted in the scope of work.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Received: Receives direction from the Payroll Supervisor and designated management staff.

Exercised: May provide supervision over technical and clerical employees.

All applicants are required to complete and submit a City application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the City online application. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application.  To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page. New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide. 
 
Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:

Oral Interview Examination (Tentatively scheduled for week of 12/7/2026): (Weight of 100%) will evaluate the candidates' experience, training, education, and abilities in relation to those factors which are essential for successful performance on the job. Candidates need a minimum passing score in order to be placed on the eligible list. 

The City of Santa Ana is an equal opportunity employer. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact us regarding providing reasonable accommodation.