Payroll Specialist II

Posting Expires:
Until Filled.

Salary Range: $54,863.22- $57,574.40

The Payroll Specialist, Senior is a key member of the City of Atlanta’s Shared Services payroll team, responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll for more than 9,000 employees in a fully in-house environment. This position ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as City policies, while delivering high-quality customer service to employees and departments. The role requires strong analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational skills with the ability to manage complex payroll processes in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned departments regarding employee payroll inquiries.
• Provide exceptional customer service support, addressing employee questions on payroll, deductions, and related matters.
• Accurately process bi‑weekly payroll transactions, ensuring deadlines are met and reports are produced on time.
• Verify payroll data accuracy by partnering with Human Resources (central and departmental) to minimize miscalculations.
• Research and resolve payroll discrepancies, voluntary and involuntary deductions, and other payroll‑related issues.
• Adhere to internal control processes for payroll transactions, ensuring compliance with GAAP, audit standards, and internal policies.
• Maintain accurate payroll records, file payroll documentation, and oversee off‑site storage of prior‑year files.
• Assist in preparing balance sheet reconciliations and propose journal entries to clear reconciling items.
• Develop and recommend process improvements leveraging technology to improve efficiency and strengthen internal controls.
• Support communication efforts, including presentations to management and internal clients.
• Safeguard confidential payroll information and ensure proper retention of both electronic and paper records.
• Escalate complex issues to the Payroll Supervisor or other appropriate resources as necessary.
• Promote teamwork and collaboration within the payroll team and across departments.

• Working knowledge of payroll principles, practices, and compliance requirements.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state payroll regulations and tax codes.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; strong overall Microsoft Office Suite skills.
• Proficiency with ERP payroll systems (Oracle Cloud preferred) and workforce management systems (Kronos or equivalent).
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities with a focus on meeting deadlines.
• Ability to research, interpret, and apply payroll‑related data and regulations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with excellent customer service orientation.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively in a team environment.
• Flexibility to adapt to shifting priorities in a dynamic environment.

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field OR an equivalent combination of education, skills, experience, and training.
• At least four (4) years of progressive payroll experience in a web‑based or ERP environment.
• Experience working with Kronos or another workforce management system.
• Experience using Oracle Cloud or a similar ERP payroll system.
• Demonstrated experience with internal audit requirements and compliance.
• Knowledge of premium pay, shift differentials, shared leave, advanced sick leave, and public safety payroll calculations.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Finance, Accounting, or Business Administration.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation or similar certification.
• Experience supporting payroll in a large, unionized, or public sector environment.
• Strong background in preparing reconciliations and journal entries related to payroll accounting.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, formulas, and reporting).