Payroll Analyst - Hybrid

What You'll Be Doing

Wake County's Human Resources Department is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Payroll Analyst to support payroll operations while serving as a key resource for payroll reporting, data analysis, and system testing. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with complex data, identifying trends and discrepancies, improving processes, and leveraging technology to support accurate and efficient payroll operations.

In this role, you will help ensure payroll processes are completed accurately and timely while also partnering across HR, Finance, and departments to provide reporting, testing support, and data-driven insights related to payroll operations and systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Process and review payroll transactions to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely payroll processing
• Research and resolve payroll discrepancies, system issues, and complex payroll questions
• Develop, maintain, and analyze payroll reports using advanced Excel functions and reporting tools
• Perform detailed data analysis to identify trends, inconsistencies, and opportunities for process improvement
• Support payroll audits, reconciliations, and validation activities to maintain data integrity
• Assist with payroll-related system testing, including configuration changes, upgrades, integrations, and process enhancements
• Document testing results, identify issues, and coordinate resolution efforts with HRIS, Payroll, and vendors
• Collaborate with HR, Finance, and operational teams to support reporting needs and improve payroll processes
• Create and maintain standard operating procedures, documentation, and reporting tools
• Support year-end payroll activities, compliance reporting, and special projects

About Our Team

Wake County's Human Resources Departmentpartners closely with county leadership to deliver innovative, results-driven, and customer-focused HR programs and services. With a team of nearly 70 dedicated professionals, we provide a wide range of support including Benefits and Employee Wellness, Recruitment, Rewards and Recognition, Employee Relations, Training, and more. Our department is consistently recognized for excellence in wellness and talent management. Through forward-thinking strategies that serve as industry models, we've helped position Wake County asa national leader in public sector HR. Honors such as theHealthiest Employer Hall of Fameand theAgency Award for Excellencereflect our commitment to creating a thriving workplace. We invite you to explore ourcompetitive benefits package, which includes a 5% 401(k) contribution and free access to the Employee Health Center.Join usin building a stronger, healthier, and more innovative Wake County.

The Basics (Required Education and Experience)

• Associate's degree in Accounting, Business Administration or related field
• Three years of experience in payroll administration
• Equivalent education and experience are accepted
• Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Beyond the Basics (Preferred Education and Experience)

• Experience processing payroll in a mid-to-large size North Carolina local government organization
• Experience with payroll, HRIS, or timekeeping systems
• Experience with payroll reporting, auditing, reconciliations, or system testing
• Experience supporting system implementations, upgrades, or process improvement initiatives

How Will We Know You're 'The One'?

The ideal candidate is highly analytical, detail-oriented, and comfortable working with large amounts of data in a fast-paced environment. You are someone who enjoys solving problems, thinking critically, and identifying ways to improve processes and reporting capabilities.

Strong candidates will demonstrate:

• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including formulas, pivot tables, lookups, data validation, and reporting tools
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Experience analyzing and interpreting complex payroll or HR data
• Ability to identify discrepancies, troubleshoot issues, and recommend solutions
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a high-volume environment
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Ability to learn and adapt to evolving payroll systems, processes, and technologyAbout This Position Location: WCOB Raleigh, NC 27602 Employment Type: Regular Work Schedule: Mon - Fri 8:30 am - 5:15 pm (Hybrid) Hiring Range: 26.54 - 34.07 Market Range: 26.54 - 41.59 Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume. Posting Closing Date: 7:00 pm on 6/4/2026 What Makes Wake Great Equal Opportunity Statement Background Check Statement Emergency Service Worker Statement

What Makes Wake Great

Consistently ranked high among the best places to live and work in America, Wake County is home to NC State University, Research Triangle Park, and 2006 Stanley Cup Champions, the Carolina Hurricanes. In addition to being Wake County's seat of government, Raleigh is also the center of state government, with the Capitol Building, legislature and many state government offices located in Raleigh. With an estimated population of just over 1.2 million residents, Wake County is North Carolina's most populous county. Entertainment, recreation, and art and culture abound with the North Carolina Museum of Art, JC Raulston Arboretum, and the Neuse River Trail all in the heart of Wake County. Wake County uses the Council/Manager form of government. Currently, the seven members of the Board of Commissioners are elected by district on a partisan basis and serve four-year terms. In Fall 2026, two at-large seats will be added for nine total commissioners. The County is regarded as a fiscally responsible and well-managed government, enjoying a AAA bond rating. The County's FY2026 General Fund budget is approximately $2.1 billion, and the County has over 5,100 full time employees. Wake County Government came in at #2 on the Healthiest Employers list for 2024. This year, US News & World Report ranked Raleigh #5 on its list of Best Places to Live, and the Milken Institute ranked Raleigh #1 on its 2025 list of Best-Performing Cities.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Wake County provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

Background Check Statement

Position may require a background check that may include: criminal, credit, motor vehicle, education, and sexual offender registry or others based on job requirements. Unless required by state law, a record of conviction will not automatically exclude you from consideration for employment. Wake County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Emergency Service Worker Statement

In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager or designee, participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected. Employee may be required to fill a temporary assignment in a role different from standard duties, work hours and/or work location in preparation for, during and after the emergency. Employee may also be required to participate in relevant exercises and regular preparedness training.