What are the responsibilities and job description for the Payroll Technician position at City of Anaheim?
Description
The City of Anaheim is currently accepting applications for a Payroll Technician in our Finance/Payroll department. Incumbents perform complex technical accounting work required to coordinate the preparation of the City's payroll; maintain centralized payroll operations; prepare, maintain, and distribute a variety of payroll records and reports. Payroll experience in a public sector agency is highly desirable.
Distinguishing Characteristics
This is an advanced journey-level and specialized class in the paraprofessional accounting series that performs a variety of technical duties in support of the City's payroll and benefits systems. Incumbents are responsible for the overall preparation and distribution of payroll, maintenance of payroll records, and required reporting in accordance with Federal, State, and local laws, rules, and regulations.
Essential Functions
The following functions are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed functions and/or may be required to perform additional or different functions from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.
Receive, review, verify, and process time recording documents to prepare payroll for all City employees; audit such documents for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with rules and regulations; prepare and balance payroll reports and records.
Processes, and maintains records of a variety of payroll actions, including but not limited to retroactive pay, benefits withholdings, wage garnishments, workers compensation claims, and final paychecks and pay-offs based on appropriate provisions; maintains employee records for voluntary and non-voluntary deductions; prepare payroll warrants; prepare reports and payments for various federal, state, financial, and insurance organizations.
Process payroll-related transactions, make appropriate adjustments, and changes in the payroll system. This includes association/bargaining unit dues, tax forms, direct deposit full and partial set ups, statistical correction sheets for earnings and deductions, utility standby pay, certification pay and Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) adjustments. Set up e-mail activation for e-stub delivery of pay checks.
Transmit Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) files for payroll deductions, including but not limited to credit union, loan deductions and court-mandated deductions.
Distribute all vendor checks for garnishments, spousal support and federal and state tax agencies.
Prepare exhibit report for all subpoena documents for Manager approval to distribute.
Run reports and distribute checks for all union organizations on contract.
Prepare tax wires as directed by Payroll Manager.
Calculate hourly rates, gross pay, all forms of overtime, differentials, upgrade and other supplemental pay. Understands how the component rates and factors calculations, pay parms and other recurring payments.
Input checks into Checking Accounting Reconcilement System (CARS).
Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with provisions of collective bargaining contracts and personnel rules as they apply to payroll and a wide variety of paid and unpaid leave usage. Suggest contract and rule changes to improve payroll and time reporting as required.
Apply and ensure compliance with applicable tax laws and rulings with regard to the employee benefits program as well as earnings.
Receive and verify Finance timesheets; check for available sick leave and vacation days and other types of available leave days and input into payroll system; advises supervisors and employees on requirements of union contracts for time reporting. Submit Timesheets after reviewing all input and verify for accuracy and completeness.
Assist department(s) managers and employees by providing payroll information, explain procedures, and answer labor contract questions pertaining to payroll .
Maintain a variety of files and records related to the City's payroll system and general accounting techniques and procedures; reconcile transactions and data as directed; record changes and resolve differences, maintain the accuracy of the accounting and financial records.
Post and balance data to various general ledger accounts, registers, journals, and logs according to established accounting techniques and procedures.
Check and tabulate complex paycheck calculations and problem solve Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) reporting, leave accrual and FLSA calculations; statistical and financial data.
Identify potential payroll/personnel related problems and report to supervisors or management staff for further action.
Post and maintain fringe benefit tracking and reporting for employees. Calculate and post taxable fringe pay on employee wages.
Serve as back up support for direct deposit Automated Clearing House (ACH) banking transmission to City's financial institution.
Serve as back up support for the Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) file transmission.
Assist Manager with special projects as required. May provide functional supervision of the Payroll Specialist.
Qualifications
Experience: Performing journey level experience that has included the maintenance, processing, and preparation of employee payroll and/or financial and accounting processing and record keeping. An equivalent combination of experience and training sufficient to perform the essential job functions and provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.
Knowledge of: public agency finance and account functions, payroll processes and techniques, employee benefits processes as they relate to payroll, and laws, rules, regulations, procedures, and office practices related to the processing and recording of payroll; computerized accounting and finance systems and computer software and systems related to finance and payroll processes; other computer applications related to work, including word processing and spreadsheet software; record keeping, information processing requirements and rules and policies related to the production of an employee payroll; payroll reporting and payment requirements of various State and Federal agencies; applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility, including the City's various Union Memoranda of Understanding and related contracts and documents; principles and practices of auditing payroll documents; modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment; English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation; techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
Ability to: Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with applicable Federal, State, and local laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of accounting, payroll processing, employee record-keeping functions, basic employee benefits processes, and Union Memoranda of Understanding; review payroll and other financial documents for completeness and accuracy; review, post, balance, reconcile, and maintain accurate and confidential payroll records; work closely with staff to maintain a high level of integrity and confidentiality when dealing with sensitive and complex payroll issues; compose correspondence and reports independently or from brief instructions; establish, maintain, and research payroll and related accounting records and files; make accurate arithmetic, financial, and statistical computations; enter and retrieve data from a computer with sufficient speed and accuracy to perform assigned work; establish and maintain a variety of filing, record-keeping, and tracking systems; understand and follow oral and written instructions; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines; operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and specialized software applications programs; use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing; Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines; establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Supplemental Information
Applications will be accepted until Monday, April 13, 2026 at 5:00 PM. Applicants are encouraged to apply early. Applications will not be accepted after this deadline.
The selection process will consist of a minimum of skills examination and oral interview. The eligibility list established from this recruitment may also be used to fill the current and/or additional vacancies throughout the City.
The successful candidate will be required to undergo a reference / background check (to include a conviction record) and pass a post-offer pre-employment medical examination (which will include a drug/alcohol screening). The City of Anaheim utilizes E-Verify and new employees must provide documentation to establish both identity and work authorization.
Candidates must be specific and complete in describing their qualifications for this position. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Failure to state all pertinent information may lead to elimination from consideration.
Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process.
The City of Anaheim offers a range of benefit programs for employees and their eligible dependents. These include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a variety of voluntary benefits. Programs and benefits amounts vary and are based on bargaining unit, family size, hire date, plan selection, and number of hours worked.
To view the current benefits summary, visit: https://www.anaheim.net/DocumentCenter/View/30970/Benefits-Summary-Full-Time
For additional information about the City's benefits, visit: www.myanaheimbenefits.com
RETIREMENT BENEFITS – The City contracts with the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) to provide retirement benefits. Retirement formula is based on appointment date and membership status with CalPERS.
Note: Pension contribution limitations are set by CalPERS each calendar year, with compensation limit requirements for Public Employee Pension Reform Act (PEPRA) members and Classic members. Employee contributions will be deposited into a 401(a) account after reaching this limit. Employees with CalPERS membership dates prior to July 1, 1996 are not impacted by these limits.
To view the current limits and additional CalPERS information, visit:
https://www.anaheim.net/DocumentCenter/View/4783/CalPERS-Rates
01
Candidates will be evaluated based on the information provided on both the application and the responses to the following Supplemental Questions. Failure to fully detail all experience or stating experience in response to the Supplemental Questions but not listing the experience in the application, copy/pasting information, or responses referring to your resume may eliminate you from consideration. Do you understand this requirement?
How many years of experience do you possess working with the maintenance, processing, and preparation of employee payroll?
Please describe your experience processing payroll. If no experience, write N/A.
04
How many years of experience do you possess handling complex technical accounting work?
Please describe your experience handling complex technical accounting work. If no experience, write N/A.
06
What is your level of competence in utilizing Microsoft Excel?
Processing payroll in a public sector setting is highly desirable. Please describe any experience you have working in public sector payroll or accounting. If no experience, write N/A.
The City of Anaheim is currently accepting applications for a Payroll Technician in our Finance/Payroll department. Incumbents perform complex technical accounting work required to coordinate the preparation of the City's payroll; maintain centralized payroll operations; prepare, maintain, and distribute a variety of payroll records and reports. Payroll experience in a public sector agency is highly desirable.
Distinguishing Characteristics
This is an advanced journey-level and specialized class in the paraprofessional accounting series that performs a variety of technical duties in support of the City's payroll and benefits systems. Incumbents are responsible for the overall preparation and distribution of payroll, maintenance of payroll records, and required reporting in accordance with Federal, State, and local laws, rules, and regulations.
Essential Functions
The following functions are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed functions and/or may be required to perform additional or different functions from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.
Receive, review, verify, and process time recording documents to prepare payroll for all City employees; audit such documents for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with rules and regulations; prepare and balance payroll reports and records.
Processes, and maintains records of a variety of payroll actions, including but not limited to retroactive pay, benefits withholdings, wage garnishments, workers compensation claims, and final paychecks and pay-offs based on appropriate provisions; maintains employee records for voluntary and non-voluntary deductions; prepare payroll warrants; prepare reports and payments for various federal, state, financial, and insurance organizations.
Process payroll-related transactions, make appropriate adjustments, and changes in the payroll system. This includes association/bargaining unit dues, tax forms, direct deposit full and partial set ups, statistical correction sheets for earnings and deductions, utility standby pay, certification pay and Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) adjustments. Set up e-mail activation for e-stub delivery of pay checks.
Transmit Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) files for payroll deductions, including but not limited to credit union, loan deductions and court-mandated deductions.
Distribute all vendor checks for garnishments, spousal support and federal and state tax agencies.
Prepare exhibit report for all subpoena documents for Manager approval to distribute.
Run reports and distribute checks for all union organizations on contract.
Prepare tax wires as directed by Payroll Manager.
Calculate hourly rates, gross pay, all forms of overtime, differentials, upgrade and other supplemental pay. Understands how the component rates and factors calculations, pay parms and other recurring payments.
Input checks into Checking Accounting Reconcilement System (CARS).
Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with provisions of collective bargaining contracts and personnel rules as they apply to payroll and a wide variety of paid and unpaid leave usage. Suggest contract and rule changes to improve payroll and time reporting as required.
Apply and ensure compliance with applicable tax laws and rulings with regard to the employee benefits program as well as earnings.
Receive and verify Finance timesheets; check for available sick leave and vacation days and other types of available leave days and input into payroll system; advises supervisors and employees on requirements of union contracts for time reporting. Submit Timesheets after reviewing all input and verify for accuracy and completeness.
Assist department(s) managers and employees by providing payroll information, explain procedures, and answer labor contract questions pertaining to payroll .
Maintain a variety of files and records related to the City's payroll system and general accounting techniques and procedures; reconcile transactions and data as directed; record changes and resolve differences, maintain the accuracy of the accounting and financial records.
Post and balance data to various general ledger accounts, registers, journals, and logs according to established accounting techniques and procedures.
Check and tabulate complex paycheck calculations and problem solve Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) reporting, leave accrual and FLSA calculations; statistical and financial data.
Identify potential payroll/personnel related problems and report to supervisors or management staff for further action.
Post and maintain fringe benefit tracking and reporting for employees. Calculate and post taxable fringe pay on employee wages.
Serve as back up support for direct deposit Automated Clearing House (ACH) banking transmission to City's financial institution.
Serve as back up support for the Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) file transmission.
Assist Manager with special projects as required. May provide functional supervision of the Payroll Specialist.
Qualifications
Experience: Performing journey level experience that has included the maintenance, processing, and preparation of employee payroll and/or financial and accounting processing and record keeping. An equivalent combination of experience and training sufficient to perform the essential job functions and provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.
Knowledge of: public agency finance and account functions, payroll processes and techniques, employee benefits processes as they relate to payroll, and laws, rules, regulations, procedures, and office practices related to the processing and recording of payroll; computerized accounting and finance systems and computer software and systems related to finance and payroll processes; other computer applications related to work, including word processing and spreadsheet software; record keeping, information processing requirements and rules and policies related to the production of an employee payroll; payroll reporting and payment requirements of various State and Federal agencies; applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility, including the City's various Union Memoranda of Understanding and related contracts and documents; principles and practices of auditing payroll documents; modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment; English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation; techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
Ability to: Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with applicable Federal, State, and local laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of accounting, payroll processing, employee record-keeping functions, basic employee benefits processes, and Union Memoranda of Understanding; review payroll and other financial documents for completeness and accuracy; review, post, balance, reconcile, and maintain accurate and confidential payroll records; work closely with staff to maintain a high level of integrity and confidentiality when dealing with sensitive and complex payroll issues; compose correspondence and reports independently or from brief instructions; establish, maintain, and research payroll and related accounting records and files; make accurate arithmetic, financial, and statistical computations; enter and retrieve data from a computer with sufficient speed and accuracy to perform assigned work; establish and maintain a variety of filing, record-keeping, and tracking systems; understand and follow oral and written instructions; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines; operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and specialized software applications programs; use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing; Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines; establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Supplemental Information
Applications will be accepted until Monday, April 13, 2026 at 5:00 PM. Applicants are encouraged to apply early. Applications will not be accepted after this deadline.
The selection process will consist of a minimum of skills examination and oral interview. The eligibility list established from this recruitment may also be used to fill the current and/or additional vacancies throughout the City.
The successful candidate will be required to undergo a reference / background check (to include a conviction record) and pass a post-offer pre-employment medical examination (which will include a drug/alcohol screening). The City of Anaheim utilizes E-Verify and new employees must provide documentation to establish both identity and work authorization.
Candidates must be specific and complete in describing their qualifications for this position. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Failure to state all pertinent information may lead to elimination from consideration.
Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process.
The City of Anaheim offers a range of benefit programs for employees and their eligible dependents. These include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a variety of voluntary benefits. Programs and benefits amounts vary and are based on bargaining unit, family size, hire date, plan selection, and number of hours worked.
To view the current benefits summary, visit: https://www.anaheim.net/DocumentCenter/View/30970/Benefits-Summary-Full-Time
For additional information about the City's benefits, visit: www.myanaheimbenefits.com
RETIREMENT BENEFITS – The City contracts with the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) to provide retirement benefits. Retirement formula is based on appointment date and membership status with CalPERS.
Note: Pension contribution limitations are set by CalPERS each calendar year, with compensation limit requirements for Public Employee Pension Reform Act (PEPRA) members and Classic members. Employee contributions will be deposited into a 401(a) account after reaching this limit. Employees with CalPERS membership dates prior to July 1, 1996 are not impacted by these limits.
To view the current limits and additional CalPERS information, visit:
https://www.anaheim.net/DocumentCenter/View/4783/CalPERS-Rates
01
Candidates will be evaluated based on the information provided on both the application and the responses to the following Supplemental Questions. Failure to fully detail all experience or stating experience in response to the Supplemental Questions but not listing the experience in the application, copy/pasting information, or responses referring to your resume may eliminate you from consideration. Do you understand this requirement?
- Yes
- No
How many years of experience do you possess working with the maintenance, processing, and preparation of employee payroll?
- No experience
- Less than one year
- 1 to less than 2 years
- 2 to less than 3 years
- 3 to less than 4 years
- 4 to less than 5 years
- 5 years of experience
Please describe your experience processing payroll. If no experience, write N/A.
04
How many years of experience do you possess handling complex technical accounting work?
- No experience
- Less than one year
- 1 to less than 2 years
- 2 to less than 3 years
- 3 to less than 4 years
- 4 to less than 5 years
- 5 years of epxerience
Please describe your experience handling complex technical accounting work. If no experience, write N/A.
06
What is your level of competence in utilizing Microsoft Excel?
- None, I do not know how to use it.
- Basic, I am able to enter data, use simple formulas, and perform basic formatting, sorting, and filtering.
- Intermediate, I can analyze data using formulas, PivotTables, and data tools to support reporting and reconciliation.
- Advanced, I can build complex analyses, automate processes, and develop reports using advanced formulas, data modeling, and automation tools.
Processing payroll in a public sector setting is highly desirable. Please describe any experience you have working in public sector payroll or accounting. If no experience, write N/A.
- Required Question