Job Description
Job DescriptionPayroll Clerk, FT Regular 1
THE CITY OF PORTALES, NEW MEXICO
POSITION POSTING #2025-12
POSITION: PAYROLL CLERK
DEPARTMENT: FINANCE
STATUS: EXEMPT
REPORTS TO: FINANCE DIRECTOR
SHIFT: REGULAR – 40 HOURS PER WEEK
SALARY: $40,000 – $49,000 ANNUALLY DOE
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Under the general supervision of the Finance Director, the payroll clerk is responsible for processing employee
compensation, ensuring compliance with tax regulations, and maintaining accurate payroll records. Calculate
wages, deductions, and benefits, while addressing payroll discrepancies and ensuring timely payments. This role
also involves preparing payroll reports and working closely with Human Resources. This individual will work with
confidential documents and maintain a high level of discretion relative to the information received and
disseminated.
TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Although the following are typical of the tasks and responsibilities routinely
performed, additional duties and/or responsibilities requiring comparable or lesser skills, knowledge, or dexterity
may be assigned. The primary responsibilities shall be regulated by the Finance Director and are not listed in any
order of primary job function.
▪ Collect and verify timekeeping data, such as hours worked, overtime, and leave time.
▪ Calculate wages, taxes deductions, and other withholdings, and process direct deposits for bi-weekly and
special payrolls.
▪ Collaborate with HR and maintain accurate and up-to-date payroll records, including employee information, pay
history, and tax records.
▪ Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations.
▪ Reconcile payroll reports, such as employee benefits (retirement, health insurance, leave accruals, and other
deductions).
▪ Resolve payroll discrepancies and answer employee inquiries related to pay deductions, and other payroll
matters.
▪ Process new employee paperwork, update employee records, and manage payroll-related systems.
▪ Provide support for all audits related to payroll and benefits.
▪ Prepare quarterly and annual payroll reports, including tax forms.
▪ Develop and implement process and procedures to improve payroll efficiency and accuracy.
▪ Assist with other accounting and finance functions as assigned by the Finance Director.
▪ Continuation of training and courses, as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS:
▪ High school diploma or GED required.
▪ Associate’s degree in business administration, public administration, or related field preferred.
▪ Minimum of 1-3 years of experience in payroll accounting is preferred.
▪ Familiarity with payroll software and systems.
▪ Strong attention to detail and ability to work accurately in a fast-paced environment.
▪ Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
▪ Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
▪ Strong understanding of payroll accounting principles and practice.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed in an office environment.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
▪ Must sit for extended periods of time, stand, or walk, as necessary.
▪ Must stretch, reach, or lift objects or materials that may be up to 25 pounds in weight.
▪ Must perform multiple tasks requiring manual dexterity at the same time.
▪ Ability to grasp and manipulate such items as paperwork, telephone, writing utensils, and other items used
▪ throughout the workday.
▪ Ability to coordinate use of hands and eyes in operation of various office equipment.
▪ Must write legibly.
▪ Must hear, understand, and respond to verbal information.
▪ Must speak clearly.
▪ Must see, read, and understand written information and instructions.
▪ Must think and apply judgment, discretion, and initiative in accomplishing work.
▪ Must engage in interpersonal interactions and complaints that could be stressful or sensitive in nature.
WORK SCHEDULE:
The regular work week is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with one hour off for lunch. Additional
time may be required after regular hours and on weekends. Attendance at regular City Council meetings
determined by Finance Director.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:
• Limited travel – ability to travel for training may be required.
• Overnight travel may be required.
PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:
Must pass a background investigation including work history, criminal records, driving records and other records
deemed necessary.
CONDITIONS OF CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT:
Candidates must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record and insurability in accordance with the City’s
insurance carrier.
DEADLINE TO SUBMIT REQUIRED APPLICATION: Position to remain open until filled. Applicant must submit
required application to Human Resources at City Hall, 1028 Community Way, Portales, N.M. 88130 or at
www.portalesnm.gov
I have read and understood the above position specifications for Payroll Clerk. I understand the demands and
expectations of the position described and to the best of my knowledge, believe I can perform these duties.
Applicant Signature ___________________________________ Date____________________________
The City is an EOE and Drug Free Workplace.
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