Payroll Specialist - City of Hutchinson, KS : Job Details

Job Summary:

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for managing and executing payroll operations for the City of Hutchinson. This role ensures that approximately 420 employees are paid accurately and on time while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Key duties include administering payroll systems, reviewing timesheets, processing payroll, handling benefit deductions, and maintaining accurate records. This role requires strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

* Payroll Administration: Produce accurate bi-weekly paychecks for city employees, managing various FLSA work periods and benefits using complex earnings calculations.

* System Management: Administer and troubleshoot the city's timekeeping and payroll system (UKG), ensuring functionality and adherence to city policies.

* Compliance & Reporting: Calculate and remit payroll withholdings, prepare quarterly and annual reports (W-2s, 941s), and ensure compliance with tax laws and pension plans.

* Benefit Management: Maintain accurate records of employee benefits, manage plan transactions, and reconcile premium statements.

* Auditing: Conduct regular audits of payroll systems to ensure accurate computation of wages and leave balances.

* System Improvement: Develop strategies for enhancing the use of payroll technology, exploring automation and self-service workflows.

* Training & Support: Provide training to managers on payroll functions and assist employees with payroll-related inquiries.

* Policy Monitoring: Stay updated on payroll law changes and implement necessary adjustments to payroll procedures.

Qualifications:

* Associate degree in Accounting, Human Resources, Business, or a related field.

* 3+ years of electronic payroll production experience, preferably with UKG or similar platforms.

* Knowledge of FLSA, EEO, FMLA, and other employment regulations.

* Strong proficiency in MS Office and Excel; experience with report writing tools is desirable.

* Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification (preferred).

Ideal Candidate:

The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. They meet high standards for punctuality and attendance on an ongoing basis. The ability to work effectively under pressure, organize, prioritize, and multitask to ensure the timely completion of highly time-sensitive duties is crucial. They exhibit strong attention to detail, coupled with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. The candidate maintains complete confidentiality and integrity of all payroll and employee information and communicates tactfully and effectively with employees, coworkers, management, elected officials, vendors, and the public, both orally and in writing. A commitment to continuous learning and system improvement is essential.

Benefits:

The City of Hutchinson is a KPERS covered employer and offers a competitive salary, paid time off, comprehensive health benefits and additional retirement options.

Join our team to contribute to the efficient management of the City's payroll operations and help ensure a positive employee experience.

See the Attached Job Description for More Details about the Position.