Payroll Associate

Puyallup, WA

Under general supervision, the Payroll Associate performs all activities necessary to process a multi-state payroll for union and non-union employees.  This includes maintaining related records, processing deductions and garnishments, compiles and records employee time and payroll data; issuing checks; assists with a variety of special projects; interacts with employees regarding questions and concerns regarding payroll issues; maintains up-to-date knowledge of a variety of payroll related requirements.

Essential Functions

Reasonable Accommodations Statement

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to complete each essential function (job duty/requirement) satisfactorily.  Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities or sincerely held beliefs, to perform the essential functions.  Contact HR for additional information.

  • Establishes and maintains employee records and payroll information by collecting, calculating, and entering data; Processes withholdings, deductions, wage garnishments, or other special payroll actions and changes affecting net wages such as exemptions, and insurance coverages.
  • Ensure that employee changes are entered correctly and made on a timely basis; review changes for proper authorization and adherence to compliance with City, State, and Federal regulations
  • Handle the administration of the electronic timekeeping systems.  Setup each employee, and adherence to FLSA; monitor submissions of approved timesheets, ensure valid data transfers to/from payroll service
  • Understands union collective bargaining agreements and applies pay related rules with compliance to City, State, and Federal regulations
  • Evaluate the accuracy of timesheets submitted by each operating company and region while addressing any discrepancies
  • Demonstrates a full understanding of applicable wage policies, procedures and work methods associated with assigned duties; maintains current knowledge of City, State, and Federal legislation affecting payroll Responsible for the coordination efforts between Payroll, Human Resources, Accounting and other departments to ensure proper flow and maintenance of employee data (e.g., overtime, leave balances, vacation, headcount, and retirement contributions)
  • Resolves payroll discrepancies by collecting and analyzing information
  • Maintains employee confidentiality and protects payroll operations by keeping information confidential
  • Keep informed about changes in tax and deduction laws that apply to the payroll process
  • Provide accurate and effective document preparation and records management in accordance to record retention policies and laws

Other Functions

  • Performs other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

Job Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED required; Associate degree or equivalent from two-year college or technical school preferred
  • One (1) plus years in a Payroll Office performing all payroll functions
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Effective communication skills including expressing ideas and thoughts verbally and in written form; exhibits good listening and comprehension; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise extreme discretion
  • Competent in required job skills and knowledge; exhibits ability to learn and apply new skills; keeps abreast of current developments; requires minimal supervision; displays understanding of how job relates to others; uses resources effectively.
  • Self-motivated and works well with others
  • Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks and meet all deadlines
  • Intermediate computer literacy of word and excel and recordkeeping principles

Physical Demands and Working Environment

  • While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to sit, communicate, reach and manipulate objects, tools or controls.  Minimum physical exertion.  Duties involve moving materials weighing up to 10 pounds on a regular basis and up to 20 pound on an occasional basis.  Manual dexterity and coordination are required over 75% of the work period while operating equipment such as computer keyboard, mouse, 10-key calculator, phone and similar machines.

Working Conditions

  • This is a hybrid role.  Work is performed in a standard office environment or is performed at home in a workspace environment. 
  • Occasional travel or necessary overtime.