Payroll Assistant Director

Harris County, the third most populous county in the nation, provides critical services to its community, including public health initiatives, disaster recovery efforts, toll road management, flood mitigation, and justice administration. The Harris County Auditor's Office plays an essential role in supporting these services by overseeing the financial operations of over 90 departments. Under the leadership of the County Auditor, the office includes Accounting and Internal Audit divisions, ensuring integrity and efficiency in the county's fiscal management.

The work we do is impactful, driving the mission of the Auditor's Office and serving the residents of Harris County. We're a team of dedicated professionals who value objectivity, innovation, and collaboration.If you are an experienced payroll leader with strong technical expertise and a passion for accuracy and compliance, we invite you to consider joining us as the Assistant Director, Payroll!

Why Join Us?

• Competitive Pay: Up to $147,000, based on experience.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Including a zero-premium medical plan for employees, with affordable coverage options for spouses and dependents.
• Outstanding Retirement Plan
• Paid Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, 11 paid holidays, and 1 floating holiday.
• Subsidized Transit/Commute Assistance
• Professional Development: Opportunities for growth and skill-building.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualifying Employer
• Corporate Discounts and Memberships

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Payroll Director, the Assistant Director of Payroll plans, organizes, and assists with payroll operations to deliver payroll preparation and processing timely and accurately. This position oversees daily payroll activities, including tax reporting, compliance with federal, state, and Harris County regulations, and resolution of payroll concerns. The Assistant Director also establishes operational goals, delegates assignments, and collaborates with stakeholders to ensure efficiency and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and participate in payroll processing for nearly 20,000 employees, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Manage year-end processing, including W-2 reconciliation and compliance.
• Implement and enforce payroll policies and procedures.
• Supervise payroll staff, including recruitment, performance evaluation, coaching, and mentoring.
• Collaborate with Office of Management & Budget (OMB), Human Resources & Talent (HRT), Universal Services (US).
• Review and approve quarterly tax filings (Form 941) and biweekly payroll tax submissions.
• Test and approve program changes to the payroll and HCM system.
• Develop and improve payroll processes using best practices and advanced analytics.
• Respond to internal and external audit requests and provide comprehensive reporting.
• Serve as acting Payroll Director in their absence.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) required.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of payroll operational experience.
• 5 years of supervisory experience.
• PeopleSoft experience required.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, g. pivot tables, formulas, VLOOKUP, etc.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Self-starter with strong problem-solving skills.
• Highly detail-oriented and deadline-driven.
• Collaborative team player with integrity and professionalism.
• Ability to translate technical knowledge into training materials and mentor staff.
• Adaptable and proactive in identifying solutions.
• Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage complex issues, influence stakeholders, and maintain high standards of customer service.

Work Environment & Schedule

Location: Harris County Auditor's Office, 1310 Prairie Street, 14th Floor.

Schedule: Typically, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday–Friday.

Our Mission and Vision

The mission of the Harris County Auditor's Office is to be a progressive, independent organization recognized for professionalism in fiscal oversight. Our vision is to foster sound financial management and operations at every level of county government while upholding the highest standards of integrity and stewardship.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Learn more about our equal employment opportunity plan here: Harris County EEO Plan.

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.Employment also contingent on passing a drug screen.