Job Description

Payroll Specialist
City of Mansfield, Ohio | Finance Department

Do spreadsheets calm you down? Does a balanced payroll feel like a small but meaningful victory? The City of Mansfield is seeking a Payroll Specialist who thrives in precision-driven work and isn’t intimidated by complexity.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys mastering systems, interpreting rules, and ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time—every time.

Why You’ll Love This Role

• Stable public-sector environment
• Meaningful work that directly supports City employees
• A role that rewards accuracy, accountability, and problem-solving
• Complexity that keeps the work interesting (no autopilot payrolls here)

Important Reality Check (a.k.a. the Fine Print We’re Proud Of)

The City operates with multiple bargaining units , each governed by distinct labor agreements, pay structures, and benefit rules. This is not a uniform payroll environment. Success in this role requires comfort with nuance, exceptions, and detailed interpretation.

If you enjoy untangling complex pay scenarios and building mastery over time, you’ll excel.

Key Responsibilities

• Review payroll work for accuracy and compliance
• Process payroll-related EFTs, benefits, and Workers’ Comp payments
• Administer payroll, leave, and retroactive pay using Time Clock Plus
• Prepare W-2s and payroll-related reports
• Manage insurance billing, COBRA, unemployment, and benefits coordination
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries with professionalism and discretion
• Support audits and financial reporting

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field preferred
• Prior payroll experience required
• Strong understanding of payroll regulations and collective bargaining agreements
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills

Compensation

• $55,000 – $75,000 annually (equivalent)
• Non-bargaining, FLSA Non-Exempt

You’ll Thrive Here If You:

• Enjoy detailed, rules-based work
• Like understanding why numbers are calculated a certain way
• Are comfortable navigating union contracts and exceptions
• Take pride in accuracy and consistency
• Can manage confidential information with integrity
• Appreciate structure but can adapt when things change

This Role May Not Be a Fit If You:

• Prefer uniform or highly automated payroll environments
• Dislike interpreting policies or labor agreements
• Get frustrated by exceptions, retroactive adjustments, or complexity
• Prefer speed over accuracy

(We believe the right candidates appreciate honesty—so we’re being upfront.)

Ready to apply? Send your resume and cover letter to Kelly@ci.mansfield.oh.us with Payroll Specialist in the subject line.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $55,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

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