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Payroll Clerk

Government Jobs, Bozeman, Montana, United States, 59715

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Payroll Clerk

The Payroll Clerk supports county-wide payroll operations by entering, verifying, and maintaining payroll data in the County's ADP payroll system. This position performs day-to-day payroll transactions to ensure that all employees, elected officials, and temporary staff are paid accurately and on time. Working under the supervision of the Payroll Specialist, the Payroll Clerk is responsible for processing employee timesheets, maintaining payroll records, and supporting regular payroll runs. The role provides direct support to employees and supervisors on routine payroll matters and ensures adherence to established procedures and timelines. This position plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of payroll data and contributes to the smooth and efficient operation of Gallatin County's Human Resources Department. Payroll Processing and Data Entry (60%) Review employee timesheets and leave submissions for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with established policies and union agreements. Review new hire, termination, and status change information for accuracy and enter it into the payroll system in a timely manner. Process biweekly payroll runs in ADP, including timekeeping uploads, adjustments, and audit checks. Ensure payroll transactions such as overtime, shift differentials, garnishments, and special pay items are properly entered. Generate and review preliminary payroll reports to identify and correct discrepancies prior to final submission. Maintain employee payroll files and digital records in compliance with County policies and record retention guidelines. Track and enter employee leave accruals, corrections, and balances. Employee and Department Support (20%) Serve as the first point of contact for routine payroll inquiries from employees and department supervisors. Provide guidance on payroll deadlines, timesheet submissions, and general pay-related questions. Refer complex issues or exceptions to the Payroll Specialist for resolution. Assist with onboarding activities related to payroll setup, such as direct deposit forms and W-4s. Administrative and Technical Support (10%) Assist with generating standard payroll reports and distributing payroll-related communications. Prepare and organize documentation for payroll audits, wage verifications, or records requests. Support year-end processes, including W-2 verifications and ACA reporting preparation. Help test ADP system updates or changes as directed by the Payroll Specialist. Other Duties as Assigned (10%) Provide occasional administrative support for other Human Resources functions. Participate in cross-training and continuous improvement efforts within the department. Perform other duties as assigned, including essential services during declared emergencies or disaster response events. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Working knowledge of payroll practices, timekeeping rules, and wage and hour laws. Ability to accurately enter, review, and correct payroll data using software systems (preferably ADP). Basic understanding of benefits, deductions, and tax withholdings as they relate to payroll. Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy in data entry and recordkeeping. Excellent organizational skills and ability to meet strict deadlines. Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion. Professional and courteous communication skills, both written and verbal. Strong customer service orientation and teamwork skills. Required Competencies Strong attention to detail and organizational skills Excellent written and verbal communication Ability to manage competing priorities in a deadline-driven environment Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities Sound judgment, confidentiality, and discretion Adaptability and commitment to continuous improvement Ability to work collaboratively and independently Willingness to complete all required ADP training and assessments Preferred Qualifications Experience using ADP payroll systems Familiarity with public sector payroll and collective bargaining environments Certification such as FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification) or CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) is a plus Education & Experience High school diploma or equivalent, and At least two (2) years of experience in payroll, accounting, or administrative support role that involved data entry, timekeeping, or payroll-related processing. Preferred Qualifications: Experience using ADP or similar payroll/timekeeping systems. Prior experience in a government or large organizational setting. Familiarity with collective bargaining agreements or public sector pay structures. A combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge and abilities will also be considered. The position is open until filled. Please be prepared to attach the following documents when you submit your application materials: cover letter resume three work references. As a condition of hire, the final candidate will be required to successfully pass a criminal and driving background check. Gallatin County does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.