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Senior Payroll Specialist/Analyst

Government Jobs, Decatur, Alabama, United States, 35603

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Job Title

The City of Decatur is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Senior Payroll Specialist/Analyst to join our team. This position reports to the Human Resources Director and is primarily responsible for managing and executing all aspects of the City's payroll processing and timekeeping functions to ensure the accurate and timely compensation of employees in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. This position is solely responsible for end-to-end payroll administration, including processing bi-weekly payroll, reconciling payroll data, preparing and submitting payroll tax reports, and managing all year-end reportingspecifically the preparation, processing, and reconciliation of W-2s and 1095s. The Senior Payroll Specialist/Analyst will also collaborate regularly with the Human Resources and Finance departments to ensure compliance, accuracy, and alignment across all payroll-related processes. The position plays a critical role in auditing payroll activities, maintaining the integrity of payroll systems, and advising on payroll best practices. Ideal candidates will possess strong attention to detail and analytical skills, a thorough understanding of payroll laws and reporting requirements, proficiency with payroll and timekeeping software systems, and excellent communication skills. Prior experience in municipal or government payroll is a plus. Major Duties

Administrates the payroll processes for all city employees and elected officials; reviews and ensures the accuracy of payroll records, including timesheets/time entry records; tracks and deducts all payroll tax withholdings, benefits deductions, leave, garnishments, and other special payroll deductions. Coordinates efforts between payroll, human resources, budget, and other departments to ensure proper flow and maintenance of employee data, including the preparation and distribution of detailed reports (overtime, leave balances, head counts, retirement contribution reports, etc.) Ensures compliance with state and federal regulations and files applicable payroll reports including tax withholding, retirement systems, quarterly and annual reports; prepares annual W-2 and 1095 forms and reports. Maintains computerized payroll and related records; prepares various reports, schedules, exhibits, and summaries and performs periodic reviews of various payroll areas, and prepares materials for payroll auditors. Reconciles monthly group benefit invoices through payroll processing vendor reporting. Will serve as a project leader in payroll systems integration, implementation, upgrades, and ongoing administration, in collaboration with IT and HR. Will be responsible for successfully managing payroll software transitions, including data mapping, testing, user training, and troubleshooting. Will be responsible for analyzing system functionality, recommending enhancements, and supporting end-users is required. Will be responsible for payroll analytics, metrics, and HR support, as needed. Performs other related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with the completion of a baccalaureate degree in a course of study related to the occupational field such as finance, math, human resources or general business with concentration in same. Experience sufficient to thoroughly understand payroll administration, including compliance with federal and state regulations and reporting in order to be able to answer questions and resolve problems, usually associated with five or more years of experience or service. Knowledge and experience with all payroll related accounting impacts, reporting, analytics, metrics, W2 and 1095 preparation/processing and ACA reporting. Project lead experience in payroll systems integration, implementation, upgrades, and ongoing administration is required. Must have a proven track record of successfully managing payroll software transitions, including data mapping, testing, user training, and troubleshooting. Experience should include collaboration with IT and HR teams to ensure system alignment with organizational goals and compliance with applicable regulations. Proficiency in analyzing system functionality, recommending enhancements, and supporting end-users is also required. Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Excel, Word, Outlook, and database management, including prior experience with financial ERP and payroll processing systems. A solid understanding of federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations is critical. Must be detail-oriented, possess strong time management skills, and demonstrate the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills are essential. Must be able to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain a high level of accuracy and confidentiality in a fast-paced environment. Knowledge and experience with Retirement System of Alabama Benefit Plan and reporting requirements highly desirable. Knowledge and experience with the principles and practices of public payroll administration highly desirable. Supplemental Information

Guidelines Employment policies and procedures, state and federal employment laws, and city and department policies and procedures. These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application. Complexity/Scope of Work The work consists of varied high-level analytical, problem solving, and management duties. The variety of situations to be managed and strict regulations contribute to the complexity of the position. The purpose of this position is to manage and coordinate payroll processing and systems for the City. Successful performance ensures the efficient and effective delivery of human resource services to all city staff and job applicants. Contacts Contacts are typically with co-workers, other city employees, elected and appointed officials, job applicants, and members of the general public. Contacts are typically to exchange information, motivate persons, negotiate matters, resolve problems, and provide services Physical Demands/Work Environment The work is typically performed in an office while sitting at a desk or table. The employee occasionally lifts heavy objects. Supervisory and Management Responsibility None.