Payroll Specialist Ref 4641708824

Timekeeping / Payroll Assistant

Onsite – Oceanside CA

Essential Functions

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Reviews information in the payroll system; information may include employee’s hourly rates, salaries, paid leave and holidays, and other information.
• Prepare and maintain employee master file records in the timekeeping system to reflect employee’s hourly rates, paid leave and holidays, work schedules, cost centers, and other information.
• Ensures proper recording of employee time following appropriate governmental laws, regulations, and contractual rules and regulations to financial/accounting transactions as required.
• Analyzes time sheet data and verifies with supervisors and managers as needed to resolve discrepancies.
• Files, maintains, and archives electronic and paper payroll records in a secure and confidential manner.
• Prepares reconciliations and summarized reports of payroll and timekeeping data.
• Coordinates with Human Resources, CalPERS, Railroad Retirement Pension, and other payroll-related business partners to process payment submission and retrieval of data.
• Provides internal and external customer service. Responds to routine requests for timekeeping information within scope of authority, referring more complex questions and requests to the appropriate staff member.
• Recommends changes and enhancements to the timekeeping and payroll system which includes reports, procedural changes, and internal system control.
• Assists in developing, testing, and implementing changes to the timekeeping and payroll system by collaborating with Information Technology Services employees. Provides knowledge, input, and tests new processes to ensure they work properly.
• Participates and provides data to internal and external auditors as they relate to timekeeping and payroll.
• Provide administrative support as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience

• Associate’s degree in accounting, business, or related field.
• Five (5) years prior similar experience, with a minimum of two (2) years direct payroll experience.
• Experience with an automated payroll system is highly desirable.

A combination of experience/skills and education to fulfill the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities for this position may be considered.

Certificates/Licenses

• Possess and maintain a California driver’s license, Class C, and a satisfactory driving record for the last five years.

General Requirements

• Strong knowledge of applicable state and federal laws, rules, and regulations related to the preparation, processing, and reporting of employee time.
• Knowledge of and the ability to appropriately apply basic math and accounting principles, procedures, and techniques.
• Demonstrated above-average proficiency in computer software programs, particularly the Microsoft Office Suite, and automated timekeeping and payroll processing systems. Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems such as JD Edwards is strongly desired.
• Intermediate- to advanced-level experience with Microsoft Excel, including but not limited to experience with pivot tables, conditional formulas, VLOOKUPs, and nesting functions.
• Ability to think critically and work independently, with an unwavering attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to gather, organize, and analyze information, develop sound conclusions, and synthesize concepts.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, multi-task, and organize workflow so as to deliver high-quality products within established deadlines.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills to deal effectively with individuals at all levels of responsibility and authority.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to develop, prepare, and audit payroll reporting.
• Strong reading and comprehension skills, including the ability to understand and comply with federal and state regulations.