Terry H. - Payroll Specialist
Q: What skills or abilities are essential to being successful in your job?
TH: You must have detail oriented and organization skills. Payroll requires someone who can multitask, work under a deadline, and problem solve. It is also important to be a team player who is able to work independently without supervision.
Q: Why did this type of work interest you, and how did you get started?
TH: The most interesting thing about payroll is the problem solving. I like answering questions and helping co-workers or employees solve a problem. I’ve been working with the City of Saint Paul in various roles since 2006. Originally, I worked as a temporary summer employee in payroll for the Parks and Recreation Department. I changed jobs a few times, working in different City departments, and when an opportunity in payroll was available, I applied.
Q: What tools or resources does the City provide to be productive and effective in this role?
TH: To do our job well we need to be knowledgeable about City policies, bargaining agreements, salary plans, rates of compensation, and more. I didn’t know all of that when I first started, and I was able to learn through resources provided by the City. I also have opportunities for further training through Century College and the American Payroll Association.
Q: How do you support the mission of your organization?
TH: I work as part of a team to process payroll bi-weekly. It is essential we do this correct and on time. My co-workers and I help each other as needed to do this effectively.
Q: What do you love about your job?
TH: I love solving problems, helping co-workers and employees with questions or issues, and working close to home. I like that the payroll specialist position benefits all of the City departments.
Q: Is there anything that you would like to add?
TH: At times this can be a stressful and demanding job. In two months we can hire 700 people in the Parks and Rec Department. I stick with it though because I know I am helping people, the work I do is important, and I have great co-workers.
The Payroll Specialist position is currently available. To learn more or apply, visit http://bit.ly/2YH3URx. Closing date is Monday, August 5, 2019; 4:30 PM CST.
Published on July 30, 2019.