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Payroll Clerk
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Scorecard
Based on Washington data
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What they do
A Payroll Clerk is responsible for elementary tasks relating to payroll, and issuing pay and pay-related information to employees
$47,997 / year median in Washington
-24% projected decline
Job Description
Description A local government organization in the Lakewood area is seeking a Payroll Specialist for a contract assignment. This role will support payroll operations, ensure compliance with applicable regulations, and provide critical support during a busy period. The ideal candidate will have experience processing payroll in a public sector, municipal, school district, or other government environment. Key Responsibilities
+ Process bi-weekly and/or semi-monthly payroll accurately and on time
+ Review and validate employee time records, leave balances, and payroll adjustments
+ Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
+ Process new hires, terminations, promotions, and employee changes
+ Reconcile payroll-related accounts and assist with month-end reporting
+ Respond to employee payroll inquiries and resolve discrepancies
+ Coordinate payroll deductions, garnishments, and benefits administration
+ Prepare payroll reports for management and auditors
+ Assist with year-end payroll activities, including W-2 processing and payroll audits
+ Support special projects and process improvement initiatives Requirements 3+ years of payroll processing experience Experience in a government, public sector, municipality, school district, or similarly regulated environment preferred Knowledge of payroll tax regulations, garnishments, and benefits deductions Strong attention to detail and accuracy Proficient with Microsoft Excel and payroll software systems Excellent communication and customer service skills Ability to handle confidential information with discretion Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more. All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms) and Privacy Notice (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/privacy) .