Payroll Specialist

POSITION HIGHLIGHTS

• Support meaningful payroll and finance operations that directly impact our employees
• Opportunity to expand your finance and payroll skills in the public sector
• Work collaboratively with Human Resources, citywide departmental staff, and benefit providers to enhance payroll services
• Enjoy a flexible work environment with a 9/80 schedule that supports work-life balance

DESCRIPTION

The City of Thousand Oaks is seeking a Payroll Specialist to join our team! We are seeking an enthusiastic, customer-focused team player who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. As a key member of the Finance Department’s Accounting Team, the Payroll Specialist will perform a variety of payroll and accounting responsibilities while ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations, as well as internal City policies.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Process and review biweekly payroll transactions
• Maintain and reconcile payroll records with the general ledger
• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations and internal policies
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding payroll and deductions, and resolve issues
• Collaborate with Human Resources and other departments on payroll changes
• Prepare reports, journal entries, quarterly, and annual tax filings and W-2s
• Collaborate with benefit providers and reconcile accounts
• Train staff on payroll systems and procedures

IDEAL CANDIDATE

• Ability to interpret, explain, and implement payroll regulations
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing
• Knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping principles
• Demonstrated ability to effectively solve problems; ability to think creatively and independently
• Knowledge of financial reporting and reconciliation
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office software (Excel, Word, databases)
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
• Detail-oriented and excellent organizational and multi-tasking skills

EDUCATION

High school diploma or equivalent supplemented by specialized training in payroll or related field.

Valid Class C California Driver’s License

EXPERIENCE

3 years of progressively responsible experience in financial recordkeeping, including a minimum of 1 year experience in payroll

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Strategic Thinker
• Results Oriented
• Customer-Focused
• Technically Knowledgeable
• Flexible & Adaptable
• Organized & Accountable

BENEFITS

The City of Thousand Oaks offers excellent benefits including:
Medical, Dental, Vision, Pension Retirement Plan, 401(a), Retirement Health Savings Plan, Tuition Reimbursement and more.

REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS: The first review date is Wednesday, November 12, 2025. Applications and supplemental questions will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Please note that the recruitment may close without notice at any time after the first review date.

SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE - Applicants are required to complete the Supplemental Questionnaire. This will be used throughout the process to assist in determining each applicant's qualifications for the position.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION - The City of Thousand Oaks makes reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities to participate in the selection process. If you wish to request an accommodation in order to participate in the selection process, you must inform the Human Resources Department in writing no later than the final filing date. Applicants requesting an accommodation should document the request including the type and extent of accommodations requested to participate in the selection process and/or perform the duties of the job for which applied.

VETERAN'S PREFERENCE - In order to qualify for Veteran’s Preference a Form DD214, or other acceptable proof of service, must be submitted by the deadline date/time noted in the job announcement. Any veteran who has successfully completed all phases of a selection process for employment with the City shall be granted a final interview regardless of his or her ranking on the eligibility list, providing he/she meets the criteria for an eligible veteran.

The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute a contract, expressed or implied, and any provisions contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $33.05 - $44.29 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $33 - $44