Central Washington University ยท 1 month ago
Payroll Specialist (Human Resource Consultant 2)
Central Washington University is seeking a Payroll Specialist (Human Resource Consultant 2) to enhance their Human Resources team in Ellensburg, Washington. This role provides essential payroll services and serves as a primary point of contact for payroll-related inquiries, ensuring compliance and fiscal management while fostering a culture of student success.
Responsibilities
Provide essential payroll services, ensuring accurate processing, compliance, and fiscal management
Serve as a primary point of contact for payroll-related inquiries, offering guidance, resolving issues, and directing customers to appropriate resources
Maintain in-depth knowledge of CWU payroll processes, policies, and systems, with a focus on accuracy, fiscal responsibility, and excellent customer service
Collaborate closely with payroll, leave and benefits personnel, serving as a full backup to ensure seamless payroll services and operational continuity
Uphold and contribute to CWU's vision, mission, and values, fostering a culture of student success and institutional excellence
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Human Resources, or related field
Solid working knowledge of payroll laws, regulations, fiscal methods, and best practices
Proven ability to perform tasks and projects to successful completion with limited supervision
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail and follow-through
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), enterprise-wide payroll/HR systems, and email communication tools
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, including payroll auditing, reconciliation, and data analysis
Superior customer service skills with the ability to respond effectively to difficult, stressful, or sensitive situations while maintaining positive relationships with internal and external customers
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including correct grammar, punctuation, spelling, and professional document composition
Ability to interpret and apply complex rules, regulations, and policies accurately
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and sensitivity
Demonstrated ability and/or experience working collaboratively with students and/or colleagues to foster a supportive and effective learning and work environment
Familiarity with federal and state wage and hour laws, garnishments, and tax reporting requirements
OR applicable combination of education and/or experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions of the position
Preferred
Minimum of 3 years' experience in payroll processing, accounting, or related field, preferably in higher education or government
Proficiency with HRIS/enterprise payroll systems such as PeopleSoft (Time & Attendance and Payroll modules) and familiarity with CWU payroll processes
Knowledge of multi-state payroll taxation and Nonresident Alien tax compliance
Payroll certification preferred (Fundamental Payroll Certification - FPC, Certified Payroll Professional - CPP, or equivalent)
Demonstrated ability to promote institutional excellence and contribute to CWU's vision, mission, and values through professional experience and life experiences
Benefits
Medical, dental, life and disability insurance
Retirement and optional savings plans
Tuition assistance for you and your dependents
Discounts across town
An employee assistance program for individualized counseling
A wellness incentive program
Vacation and sick leave plans depending on employment classification
Company
Central Washington University
Central Washington University, or CWU, is a publicly assisted university in Ellensburg, Washington in the United States
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Recent News
2025-10-16
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2025-09-12
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