Payroll Accounting Specialist

Job Summary
Under the general direction of the Chief Deputy Auditor-Treasurer, this position is responsible to process biweekly payroll timely and accurately, create various payroll reports, and to assist in maintaining the County’s Human Resources Information System (HRIS).  
This position is based out of the Sherburne County Government Center in Elk River, MN with regular business hours of 8:00a - 4:30p, Monday - Friday. Sherburne County is one of the fastest growing counties in Minnesota, where you can find a nice blend of suburban and rural life. As a thriving organization fueled by people passionate about serving our community, Sherburne County strives to support and engage employees through investments in competitive compensation and equitable benefits; a culture that promotes physical and emotional wellbeing; opportunities for professional growth and a sense of honor and purpose.

Learn more about Sherburne County, our workplace culture and a brief overview of our employee benefits.

Interviews for this position are tentatively scheduled for February 27, 2025. Candidates selected for the interview process will be contacted via email. 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The following duties are normal for this position.  These duties are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive.   Other duties may be required and assigned.
 
Responsible for biweekly payroll processing for all county employees in compliance with county personnel policies and labor agreements, verify submitted timesheets, and resolve discrepancies with supervisors and Human Resources.  Perform data entry of payroll journal entries into the County’s accounting system.
Maintain time & attendance system.  Provide guidance to employees and supervisors on the completion of timecards pursuant to county personnel policy and labor agreements.
Act as a resource to departments.  Respond to questions from employees and supervisors regarding payroll processing, calculations and other related areas.
Provide clear documentation of all payroll and reporting processes.  Regularly rotate payroll duties for internal control.
Audit, reconcile and resolve any discrepancies with benefit deductions and vendor billings.    
Create and prepare a variety of reports for state and federal taxes, audits, annual financial reports and other areas required by state or federal law and regulations.
Maintain employee payroll files and timesheets as required by the County’s Records Retention Schedule.
Attend meetings and training as directed to maintain professional competency.
Provide back-up to property tax and election functions as needed.
Develop and maintain respectful and cooperative working relationships.
Regular and reliable attendance according to the department’s work schedule.
 
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Knowledge of governmental accounting standards and practices.
Knowledge of employment and labor laws and other state and federal laws that affect payroll.
Knowledge of office procedures, data entry and record keeping.
Proficient in Excel and excellent working knowledge of Word.
Excellent customer service skills and ability to communicate effectively both written and orally.
Extensive skill in mathematical computations.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and data privacy pursuant to state and federal laws.
Ability to plan and organize effectively.
Ability to work under pressure and accurately process payroll within prescribed deadlines.
Ability to multitask effectively.
Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
Ability to handle a variety of typical assignments independently.
Minimum Qualifications
An individual must meet the minimum qualifications as stated below to qualify for this position.
 
Two years of post-secondary education in payroll, accounting or related field; AND 
Three years of experience in payroll, accounting or related field.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Employer
Sherburne County
Address
Sherburne County Government Center
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, Minnesota, 55330-1692
Phone
763-765-3001
Website
http://www.co.sherburne.mn.us