Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist

Salary

$76,206.78 Annually

Location

Lakewood Campus, Lakewood, WA

Job Type

Full-time, regular

Job Number

2627AF07

Direct Report Unit

Finance and Administration

Department

Payroll and Benefits

Opening Date

09/14/2026

Closing Date

9/22/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Bargaining Unit

AP

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Position Objective

Under the supervision of the Payroll Manager, the Payroll Specialist will be responsible for performing professional-level assignments, primarily focusing on time and labor, payroll processing for staff, faculty, and students, and account reconciliation to support the payroll and benefits functions of the College. Under general direction, this position will independently provide information and counsel to internal customers regarding tenure and tenure track faculty contracts, pay compliance with verification of collective bargaining agreements (CBA) versus contracts. Partners with Instructional positions performing faculty workload and faculty benefit impact analysis. Primary payroll backup for Payroll Manager and manages payment processes. This work will require the application of professional judgment and the duties of this position will have budgetary impact. The work also requires excellent customer service in-person, phone, and email to both internal and external customers.

This description is not intended to cover every aspect of this job. We are a team that works together to meet the needs of those we serve, and every member of the team is expected to contribute, even beyond the specific responsibilities listed in this description.

Clover Park Technical College celebrates the many individuals that make up our community and embraces the opportunity to learn from both our differences and similarities. CPTC values equity and respect. We seek to create an environment of innovation and excellence and focus on student success, lifelong learning, and social responsibility.

While the full annual salary range for this role is $76,206.78 to $92,863.38, successful candidates are typically hired at the beginning of the salary range (Level AF9, Step A) and receive scheduled salary increment increases in accordance with the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement.

This position is represented by the AFT Professional Staff, Local 6431.

Duties and Tasks (Essential Functions)

Duty: Payroll Processing and Reconciliation

Tasks include:

• Verify and process confidential payroll data while adhering to strict deadlines.
• Schedule payroll jobs in the ctclink or other designated college payroll systems.
• Oversee union enrollment and dues collection in accordance with the appropriate collective bargaining agreement.
• Work in partnership with Union Representatives to resolve requests for information.
• Compare and confirm payroll vendor payment amounts with system-generated reports; disburse checks.
• Scan and validate payroll documents using college-approved imaging technology.
• Use independent judgment to evaluate discrepancies and determine appropriate corrections.
• Calculate and process retroactive deductions or refunds.
• Compile payroll data using system-generated reports to prepare semi-monthly payroll reconciliations.
• Validate and at times initiate reporting of payroll gross and taxable wages.
• Update annual pay tables.

Duty: Special Leave

Tasks include:

• Collaborate with Benefits Specialist on compensated leave and leave programs such as Family and Medical Leave (FMLA), WA Family Care Leave, and pregnancy disability leave in accordance with federal and state laws, Clover Park Technical College policies and procedures, and collective bargaining agreements.
• Collaborate with Benefits Specialist on ad hoc requests for payroll data.

Duty: Other Duties

Tasks include:

• Serve as back-up to payroll check printing.
• Participate in a variety of college-related meetings, training, committees, and activities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associates Degree or equivalent work experience from an accredited college or university, or 4 years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of State and Federal regulations pertaining to payroll practices.
• A minimum of three years of work experience in an office environment that included: strict confidentiality, direct customer contact, heavy workflow, adhering to strict deadlines, researching rules and regulations, and regular use of computer programs, spreadsheets, and accounting systems.
• Intermediate proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite of applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university with an emphasis in Accounting, Business Administration, or closely related field.
• Working knowledge of Washington State Community and Technical College Administrative systems.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience of Clover Park pay practices (including contracts, employment action forms, shared leave, audits).
• Expert proficiency with Microsoft Office 365, specifically Excel applications.

Application Instructions

• Complete application
• Attach your CTC certifications and/or industry-recognized credentials
• Upload a resume and cover letter describing your skills and experience
• Complete Supplemental Questions

All offers of employment at Clover Park Technical College are contingent upon successful completion of background checks, including criminal history. Information obtained from the background checks will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicants suitability and competence to perform in the specific position.

Should you have any difficulties uploading your documents, dont hesitate to contact NeoGovTechnical Support at 1-855-524-5627, Mon-Fri 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM Pacific Time

Supplemental Information

At this time, Clover Park Technical College is not sponsoring H1-B Visas.

Land Acknowledgement Statement

We acknowledge that we are on the traditional land of the Puget Sound Salish peoples belonging to the Puyallup, Steilacoom, Nisqually, and Squax in Island tribes and bands, and we honor and thank the traditional caretakers of this land. We value the tribes in our community, and the impact that they continue to make on our college to this day. For more information about CPTCs commitment to indigenous tribes, please visit http://www.cptc.edu/diversity

Why Work at Clover Park Technical College?

At Clover Park Technical College, we are proud to be part of Washington States Community and Technical College system, supported by the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC). Our institution is dedicated to building strong individuals, families, and communities by providing accessible, high-quality education and training.

Working here means being part of a team that empowers students to develop their skills and talents, preparing them to become engaged global citizens. Our faculty and staff create a dynamic learning environment where students feel supported and motivated to succeed. As an employee, you'll have opportunities to participate in college events, clubs, and committees that foster engagement and connection. Guest speakers and professional development opportunities further enrich the experience, ensuring that both students and staff continue to grow and thrive.

Our History

Clover Park Technical College is located in Lakewood, Washington. Our college has a rich history of professional and technical education dating back to the 1940s, when Clover Park School District established a War Production program, training civilians as auto mechanics, aircraft-service mechanics, ship-fitters, welders and blueprint readers. Now, CPTC offers more than forty programs in Aerospace, Advanced Manufacturing, Health Sciences, Human Services, Business, Hospitality, Science Technology, Engineering, Transportation and Trades. CPTC has two campuses: Our main campus is located in Lakewood, WA and our South Hill Campus is located in Puyallup, WA. Learn more about Clover Park Technical College by visiting About CPTC. Jeanne Clery Statement Notice of Availability of Annual Security Report:

Jeanne Clery Statement

Notice of Availability of Annual Security Report: Clover Park Technical Colleges Annual Security Report is available online at http://www.cptc.edu/risk/safety/security.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Clover Park Technical College is an equal opportunity employer and committed to principles of diversity. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, marital status, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information or status as a disabled veteran or Vietnam-era veteran.

Non Discrimination Statement

Clover Park Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal.

For inquiries, please contact:

• Title IX Coordinator: Demetria Orthouse, Director of Human Resources | 253-589-6039 |demetria.orthouse@cptc.edu
• Section 504/Disability Coordinator: Sarah Addington, Manager of Student Disability Services | 253-589-5755 | sarah.addington@cptc.edu

CPTC Benefits & Perks

Clover Park Technical College (CPTC) offers an abundant benefits package to best fit our employees and their familys needs. As an eligible employee at Clover Park Technical College, you will be able to choose from top medical and dental programs, as well as plan for your future with CPTC's competitive retirement options. At CPTC, we also believe in family work-life balance by offering generous vacation and sick leaves in addition to 10 paid holidays per year. Join the CPTC Team!

Health Insurance / FSA

Eligible employees may choose from among seven health plans offered in 2026-2027, including Consumer-Directed Health Plans with Health Savings Account (CDHP-HSA). In addition to top Health Insurance plans, employees are also able to contribute to a tax-exempt Flexible Spending Account (FSA) that allows you to save money on eligible health expenses.

Dental Insurance

Eligible employees may choose from two managed care plans and one preferred provider plan. Dental premiums for you and your dependent(s) are fully paid by CPTC.

Life Insurance

CPTC provides each eligible employee with $35,000 Basic life insurance, and $5,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment policy at no additional cost. Options allow employees to design their own coverage by purchasing additional coverage as well as coverage for dependents.

Long Term Disability Insurance

CPTC pays for Long-Term Disability (LTD) coverage with a 90-day waiting period and a maximum benefit of $450 per month. You may purchase additional optional LTD coverage to supplement the Basic LTD, providing up to 60 percent of your monthly salary.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

The employee assistance program is for State of Washington employees, other governmental entities, and their family members. EAP offers free professional counseling and referral services.

Retirement

CPTC participates in several retirement plans administered through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and TIAA. Eligibility in the plans is based on your current classification .

Extras!

• Discounted Child Care and the Hayes Child Care Center

• Fine Dining in the Rainier Room

• Exquisite pastries by Bon Sucre'

• Automotive repairs

• Variety of spa treatments provided by our esthetics program

• On-campus coffee shop & store

• Career growth potential

• Washington State Tuition Waiver

• Access to state-of-the-art workout facility

• Professional Development opportunities

01

Do you possess an Associates Degree or higher OR 4 years of relevant professional experience?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you have knowledge of State and Federal regulations pertaining to payroll practices?

• Yes
• No

03

Do you possess a minimum of three years of work experience in an office environment that included: strict confidentiality, direct customer contact, heavy workflow, adhering to strict deadlines, researching rules and regulations, and regular use of computer programs, spreadsheets, and accounting systems?

• Yes
• No

04

Do you have intermediate-level proficiency in Microsoft Office applications?

• Yes
• No

05

I am a WA State resident or will obtain residency within 45 days of my start date.

• Yes
• No

06

Describe the climate for diversity at your present or recent employer or institution. What impact have you had on that climate?

07

Do you possess a Bachelors degree or higher from an accredited college or university with an emphasis in Accounting, Business Administration, or closely related field?

• Yes
• No

08

Do you have a working knowledge of Washington State Community and Technical College Administrative systems?

• Yes
• No

09

Do you have knowledge of and experience with Clover Park pay practices (including contracts, employment action forms, shared leave, audits)?

• Yes
• No

10

Do you have expert level proficiency with Microsoft Office 365, specifically Excel applications?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer Clover Park Technical College

Address 4500 Steilacoom Blvd SW

Lakewood, Washington, 98499-4004

Phone 253-589-5576

Website http://www.cptc.edu