Senior Payroll Specialist & Time Systems Lead

City of Des Moines, Washington; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 87,000 - 106,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Des Moines, WA is seeking an experienced Payroll Specialist II to manage semi-monthly payroll, ensure compliance with applicable laws, and act as the Executime system administrator. You will work closely with Finance, HR, and IT to optimize processes and resolve complex payroll issues.

The role requires strong knowledge of payroll principles, tax reporting, and benefits administration, with a focus on accuracy, confidentiality, and exceptional customer service.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree in accounting, finance, public administration or closely related field.
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in payroll administration or similar roles.
• Knowledge of federal, state and local public sector payroll laws and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Process semi-monthly payroll in collaboration with HR and IT.
• Administer Executime timekeeping system configuration and upgrades.
• Prepare payroll tax reports and filings per laws and regulations.
• Coordinate benefits processing and reconcile vendor billings.
• Provide payroll training and guidance to departments.

Skills

Payroll principles

Accounting principles

Public sector payroll

Wage & hour laws

ERP systems

Timekeeping

Data analysis

Confidentiality

Education

Assoc. degree in accounting

Tools

Executime

MUNIS

Payroll software

Job description

The City of Des Moines, WA is seeking an experienced Payroll Specialist II to manage semi-monthly payroll, ensure compliance with applicable laws, and act as the Executime system administrator. You will work closely with Finance, HR, and IT to optimize processes and resolve complex payroll issues.

The role requires strong knowledge of payroll principles, tax reporting, and benefits administration, with a focus on accuracy, confidentiality, and exceptional customer service.