Payroll Assistant Temporary

At JH Kelly
, we’re looking for a detail-oriented Payroll Assistant who thrives in a fast-paced environment and loves being the behind-the-scenes hero that keeps our people paid accurately and on time. This is a temporary position.

Celebrating over a century of excellence, JH Kelly is a fourth-generation, family-owned construction powerhouse with a legacy of tackling complex commercial and heavy industrial projects. With offices in Vancouver, Longview, Seattle, Bellingham, WA, and Milwaukie, OR, we’re an industry leader fueled by an award‑winning team known for safety, quality, and a tight-knit, dynamic culture. Curious about our story and impact? Check us out at

We want someone who is naturally organized, loves digging into the details, and isn’t fazed by deadlines or high volume. You’re the type who spots discrepancies before they become problems, handles confidential information with total discretion, and genuinely enjoys helping people—from craft workers on the jobsite to managers in the office. You’re positive, approachable, and ready to roll up your sleeves in a collaborative, team-first environment.

Experience with union construction payroll is a huge plus, but a great attitude and willingness to learn matter just as much.

As our Payroll Assistant, you’ll be a key player in making sure our large, mixed non-union and union workforce gets paid accurately and on time—every week. This is an entry-level role with plenty of growth potential on a supportive Payroll team.

Pay Range: $19 - $21 per hour (DOE), FLSA non-exempt (OT eligible).

Here’s a deeper dive into what you’ll take on:

• Assist with accurate and timely weekly payroll processing for a high-volume workforce
• Collect, review, and input timecards; calculate and enter payroll data with meticulous accuracy
• Maintain payroll records, databases, and document management/archiving systems
• Generate payroll reports and complete employment/income verification requests
• Coordinate with HR, Tax, Finance, field management, and employees to resolve issues quickly
• Protect employee confidence by keeping all payroll information strictly confidential
• Support internal and external audits and various payroll-related projects as needed
• Jump in on ad‑hoc tasks and special projects—whatever it takes to keep things running smoothly

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required;
  Associate’s degree in business/accounting preferred
• Experience: Minimum of 1 year in payroll or accounting roles
• Big bonuses if you have: Experience with union construction payroll and prevailing wage requirements
• Big bonuses if you have: In-house payroll processing experience
• Big bonuses if you have: Worked with Viewpoint Vista ERP (or similar construction/ERP systems)
• Tech
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel, Word, and Outlook)
• The must‑haves: Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy—even when the pace is intense
• The must‑haves: Strong organizational and time-management skills; proven ability to prioritize and meet tight deadlines
• The must‑haves: High level of integrity and ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• The must‑haves: Positive, can‑do attitude and true enjoyment of teamwork and customer service
• The must‑haves: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

This office-based role involves sitting at a computer for extended periods, repetitive typing/mouse use, occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 20 pounds. Clear verbal and written communication is essential. Reasonable accommodations are available to support individuals with disabilities.

Pay Range: $19 - $21 per hour (DOE), FLSA non-exempt (OT eligible).

You’ll be part of a family-oriented, fourth-generation company that truly values its people. This role gives you hands‑on experience with complex union and non‑union payroll in the construction industry, plenty of mentorship from seasoned pros, and a real opportunity to grow.

Submit your resume and a brief cover letter telling us why you’re excited about payroll, how you stay organized under pressure, and any experience you have with union or construction payroll. We can’t wait to meet you!

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.