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2025 Payroll Specialist

2025 Payroll Specialist

PAYROLL SPECIALIST II


Job Summary:

The role of Payroll Specialist II with Renton RFA offers more than just a job—it’s a chance to contribute to those who put their lives on the line to serve our community every day. Working in the fire service is not only deeply rewarding but also provides a unique backdrop that elevates the significance of your work. As part of our Finance team, you’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring timely payroll functions for our firefighters, support staff, and their families.

The Payroll Specialist II is a mid-level position responsible for independently performing payroll tasks, resolving issues, and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. This role requires technical expertise and the ability to handle more complex payroll functions and contribute to process improvements.

We are on the lookout for a candidate who is not just seeking a role but a purpose. Prior experience in the public sector, especially within the fire service, is not required but will be considered an invaluable asset. If you are driven by a desire to support people, possess a keen eye for detail, and are ready to be part of a team that makes a real difference in the community, we encourage you to seize this opportunity and apply today!

Job Duties / Responsibilities:

Essential Functions

Payroll Processing and Compliance:

  • Process and audit payroll, ensuring adherence to labor agreements, federal and state laws, and organizational policies.
  • Prepare and transmit payroll files, including direct deposits, taxes, deductions, and garnishments.
  • Reconcile and balance payroll accounts, deductions, and benefits independently.

Analysis and Reporting:

  • Research and compute advanced payroll adjustments, explaining calculations to members as needed.
  • Generate routine and advanced ad hoc reports using Excel and payroll software.
  • Monitor and resolve discrepancies in account balances.

Member and Record Management:

  • Set up new employees in the payroll system and process employment verification requests.
  • Implement terms of collective bargaining agreements, including pay codes, benefits, and leave plans.
  • Distribute W-2 forms and maintain up-to-date payroll records.

Support Functions:

  • Assist with the annual budget preparation and related payroll data.
  • Serve as a backup for Accounts Payable/Receivable functions.
  • Participate in training to enhance technical experience and departmental functions.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Salary:

$89,383 – $108,646

Job Type:

Regular Full-Time

Location:

Admin HQ – Fire Station 13

Division:

Administration

Supervision:

Reports To:  Finance Manager
Supervises:  None

APPLY FOR THIS POSITION

Education, Experience, and License Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration or related field preferred.
  • 3-5 years of payroll experience.
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
  • Public sector experience preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Requirements:

Knowledge of:

  • Intermediate Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook functions.
  • Payroll laws and regulations applicable to Washington State.
  • Methods, procedures, and terminology related to payroll.

Ability to:

  • Independently organize and analyze payroll data.
  • Understand and apply complex policies, rules, and regulations.
  • Reconcile discrepancies in payroll data.
  • Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
  • Exercise initiative and judgment in payroll processes.

Skills in:

  • Advanced written and verbal communication skills.
  • Analytical skills for complex payroll calculations.
  • Effective interpersonal skills for working with internal and external stakeholders.

Work Environment / Physical Demands:

The following represent the physical demands that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job:

  • Work in an office environment with extensive exposure to computer screens.
  • Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and other office equipment.
  • Noise level in the office is moderately quiet.

Approved reasonable accommodation requests will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.