Location
Description
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
CORE COMPETENCIES
Strategic Thinker
Results Oriented
Customer-Focused
Technically Knowledgeable
Flexible & Adaptable
Organized & Accountable
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
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. Click here for more information.
Special Instructions
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.