Payroll Manager (Internal Only)

Payroll Manager (Internal Only)

Salary

$98,016.00 - $120,000.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Olympia, WA

Job Type

Exempt

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-06486

Department

Office of Financial Management

Division

Fiscal & Operations

Opening Date

08/12/2026

Closing Date

8/24/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

This job opportunity is only open to OFM employees.

Please note: The starting salary offer will be determined based on the successful candidates' qualifications within the budgeted salary range of $98,016 - $120,000 annually. However, there is the potential for longevity, growth, and salary progression for the individual once employed.

Why work for OFM

The Office of Financial Management (OFM) serves as the backbone of Washington state government. Our mission is to make our state a better place by connecting people, budgets, policies, data, and systems for state agencies and the Legislature. Our team includes budget advisors, researchers, and other experts, all dedicated public servants working towards an equitable future for every Washingtonian.

If you want to play a key role in enhancing how state government serves its citizens, you've found the right place. Join us in making a meaningful difference for every Washingtonian!

The job opportunity

The Office of Financial Management supports and improves government on behalf of all Washingtonians. The Fiscal and Operations Unit advances this mission by providing fiscal, facilities, and operational services to OFM, the Governor's Office, affiliated agencies, and the Office of Independent Investigations.

The candidate selected serves as the primary expert and point of contact for payroll, leave, and employee benefits. This position oversees semi-monthly payroll, leave, and benefit processes and supervises the payroll officer and three financial analysts. It also provides guidance to employees on fringe benefits, leave, out-of-state payroll reporting and taxation, and other payroll matters. The role ensures every payroll cycle is accurate, timely, and properly documented.

What you'll work on:

The candidate selected manages, leads, and reviews (as necessary) payroll, time, and benefit-related functions and actions for the Office of Financial Management, the Governor's Office, and the Office of Independent Investigations using a strict schedule of deadlines on rigid and varying schedules. The payroll manager also ensures that all payroll activities follow internal controls/audit trails and implements continuous improvement measures.

The Payroll Manager:

• Oversees semi-monthly payroll, leave, and benefit processing, supervising the payroll officer and financial analyst.
• Directs and reviews staff work to ensure accurate payroll processing within critical deadlines.
• Manages payroll systems, timekeeping, and the execution of taxes, levies, and garnishments.
• Consults with employees on payroll, leave, and benefits.
• Ensures compliance with tax laws, monitors legislative changes, and advises leadership on required actions.
• Leads complex payroll tax compliance for OFM, GOV, and OII in Washington and currently 12 other states.
• Ensures each payroll cycle is accurate, timely, and fully documented.
• Reviews and processes personnel and payroll actions in HRMS and PAY1.
• Administers benefit program accounting, including PFML, Medical Aid, and Workers Compensation payments.
• Partners with HCA, ESD, LNI, and DRS to resolve employee questions.
• Approves payments related to shared leave, garnishments, state income taxes, and miscellaneous deductions.
• Oversees payroll reporting, quarterly tax deposits, periodic returns, personnel forms, timecards, annual leave actuals, W2s, and 1099s, if necessary.
• Approves payments to beneficiaries of deceased employees as required by SAAM.
• Analyzes payroll, leave, and benefit data for audits, research, and corrective actions.
• Approves payroll revolving fund activities and annual federal reporting.
• Manages DRS ERA access and corrections related to wages and hours.
• Maintains HRMS cost distribution, payroll records, and position funding across divisions and agencies.
• Provides consultation on policies that impact payroll, in addition to drafting and updating policies, as necessary.

What you need to bring:

• Demonstrated knowledge and leadership of payroll principles, practices, and procedures, including payroll processing, reporting, and compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated knowledge of governmental accounting principles, internal controls, auditing practices, and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) as they relate to payroll operations.
• Understanding of federal and state laws, regulations, policies, and collective bargaining agreements affecting payroll and benefits administration.
• Experience performing payroll administration functions using payroll, human resources, or financial management systems.
• Ability to research, analyze, and interpret complex payroll data, regulations, policies, and procedures to make informed decisions and recommendations.
• Ability to identify, investigate, and resolve payroll discrepancies while ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Ability to communicate complex payroll, accounting, and regulatory information clearly and effectively to employees, management, and other stakeholders.
• Proficiency in developing, implementing, and monitoring payroll processes and internal controls to ensure operational effectiveness and compliance.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, organize work effectively, and meet critical deadlines in a high-volume environment.
• Ability to establish and maintain collaborative working relationships with internal and external partners while providing responsive customer service.
• Demonstrated skill in preparing, reviewing, and maintaining accurate payroll records, reports (HRMS, WWA, and Enterprise Reporting), and financial documentation.
• Ability to lead process improvements and support organizational goals through effective problem-solving, planning, and decision-making.

Preferred/desired education, experience, and competencies:

• A Bachelor's degree in Accounting or closely related field
• 5 years of payroll and/or human resources experience within Washington State. Specified experience in payroll or budgeting may substitute for education.
• 5 years of supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience working with the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) and the Health Care Authority's 24-7 benefit system.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience using HRMS and PAY1 for the State of Washington.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience using AFRS, Enterprise Reporting, Washington Workforce Analytics (WWA), MyPortal, and other accounting and leave systems.
• Reconciliation skills related to the payroll revolving account 035.
• Understanding of state and federal tax requirements, 941's, PFML and L&I quarterly reporting.
• Working knowledge of other state income tax payment processes and periodic reporting requirements.
• Understanding of State policies and laws, i.e., State Administrative and Accounting Manual SAAM), Revised Code of Washington (RCW), and the Washington Administrative Code (WAC).
• Understanding of State retirement plans administered through DRS, i.e., PERS, TERS, etc.
• Strong technical skills in order to produce high-quality work products using multiple types of Microsoft products
• The ability to complete multiple and high-priority assignments by utilizing good judgment, managing priorities, and meeting deadlines.
• Excellent to advanced skills utilizing Microsoft Word and other Microsoft Office products (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.).
• The ability and competence to create ad hoc reports from Webi, as needed.
• Certification and licensure as a Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)

We are committed to finding the candidate whose skills and experience align best with this role. We recognize that strong candidates may come from a variety of professional backgrounds and experiences. If your qualifications align with the role and you excel in collaborative environments, can manage competing priorities, and are committed to equitable and inclusive practices, we encourage you to apply.

Supplemental Information

What we offer

At OFM, we foster a culture of integrity, innovation, inclusion, and belonging. We value both learned and lived experiences, believing that diversity makes us stronger. To support your health and well-being, we offer a variety of benefit programs for our employees.

Please visit our Recruitment Page for a full list of benefits available to employees. Here's a quick glance at some of the unique benefits that OFM offers:

• An environment of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• 12 paid holidays, 14 paid vacation days (minimum), and 12 days of sick leave per year
• State retirement programs

Application Process:

Once you've decided to apply for a state government job, you'll complete an online application to showcase your qualifications. Keep in mind that once you submit the application, a real person will read it. We do not use AI or any other technology to screen your application and reject it. Please ensure you provide clear, detailed information about your work history so your qualifications can be accurately assessed. We will contact the top candidates directly to schedule interviews. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please call 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

When completing your application, please attach all of the following required documents:

• Cover letter: describing your qualifications for this specific position
• Resume: that details your applicable experience and education.
• References: at least three professional references and their current contact information.

Questions:

OFMs Staff ASL interpreter is available to all deaf and hard-of-hearing applicants. For questions about this recruitment or to request a reasonable accommodation in the application or interview process, please email us atTalentAcquisition@ofm.wa.gov.

The Office of Financial Management is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, and disabled and Vietnam-era veterans are encouraged to apply.

This position is exempt from civil service rules.

For more information, please seeWAC 357-19-195.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

(OFM) The application process requires that you attach a cover letter detailing how you meet the qualifications of this position and a resume. Please check your attachments and click below to indicate you have attached the required documentation.

• Yes, I have attached a cover letter and a resume.
• No, I have not attached a cover letter and a resume.

02

Please select all that apply to your experience:

• Payroll Principles, e.g. IRS, Social Security, LNI, LTC, and PFML
• Payroll Processing
• Governmental Accounting Principles and Auditing Practices
• Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• Understanding of Federal and State laws and regulations, policies and collective bargaining agreements
• None of the Above

03

In 250 words or more, describe your experience processing payroll and ensuring compliance with federal or state requirements. Please reference which payroll systems you used.

04

In 250 words or more, explain your experience applying governmental accounting principles, internal controls, auditing practices, or GAAP within payroll operations.

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov