Payroll Specialist
Robert Half - Lakewood, WA
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Description A well-established public-sector organization is seeking an experienced Payroll Accountant / Budget Analyst to step into a critical interim role supporting both payroll operations and instructional budgeting. This position plays a key role in ensuring accurate compensation for faculty while maintaining oversight of departmental budgets. This is a highly independent role with strong visibility, offering the opportunity to make an immediate impact during a transitional period. Key Responsibilities Payroll (Primary Focus) + Manage day-to-day payroll operations with an emphasis on adjunct/part-time faculty payroll + Review and process quarterly faculty contracts to ensure accuracy and compliance + Coordinate pay structures tied to course credits and contract terms + Handle manual adjustments, including stipends and variable pay scenarios + Ensure accurate setup and processing within the payroll system + Partner with internal stakeholders (department chairs, leadership) to validate payroll data + Support faculty eligibility considerations related to compensation and benefits Budget & Financial Oversight + Provide oversight and reconciliation of instructional and departmental budgets + Monitor budget activity and support forecasting and planning efforts + Analyze budget variances and provide reporting insights to leadership + Maintain accuracy across related accounts and ensure alignment with financial goals Requirements u2022 Proven experience in payroll management, particularly for adjunct or part-time faculty. u2022 Strong background in budget oversight and financial planning. u2022 Familiarity with multi-state payroll processes and compliance standards. u2022 Proficiency in payroll systems. u2022 Ability to handle payroll for large teams, including over 300 employees. u2022 Knowledge of benefits administration and eligibility guidelines. u2022 Excellent analytical and organizational skills for managing detailed financial data. u2022 Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively across departments. Robert Half is the worldu2019s 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 ( 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. u00a9 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking u201cApply Now,u201d youu2019re agreeing to Robert Halfu2019s Terms of Use ( and Privacy Notice (.
Created: 2026-03-30