Payroll Operations and Communications Specialist

Job Description

Finance, Planning, and Budgeting (FPB) has an outstanding opportunity for an Payroll Operations and Communications Specialist to join their Payroll team.    

About this Opportunity  

Reporting to the Assistant Director for Payroll Customer Engagement and Analytics, the Payroll Operations and Communications Specialist is critical to supporting Payroll Operations through the management of knowledge resources, operational communications, business process documentation, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role will lead the development, maintenance, and governance of payroll documentation, online resources, and operational reference materials that support payroll services across the University. 

The Payroll Operations and Communications Specialist partners with Payroll Operations, UW Information Technology, Human Resources, and campus stakeholders to identify resource needs, evaluate business processes, and support the implementation of operational improvements related to payroll systems, services, and communications. In addition, the Specialist will develop, organize, maintain, and continuously improve payroll documentation, website content, knowledge management tools, and resource materials to ensure information is accurate, accessible, and aligned with evolving business requirements and University standards.  

The Payroll Operations and Communications Specialist evaluates operational needs and stakeholder feedback to identify opportunities for process improvement, increased efficiency, enhanced user support, and broader adoption of payroll-related services and technologies. Apart from these responsibilities, the Specialist will coordinate payroll communications, support website administration and accessibility efforts, evaluate and recommend technology solutions, assist with reporting and business analysis initiatives, support the development and delivery of payroll operational resources and informational materials and support special projects that advance Payroll Operations' strategic and operational objectives. 

This position serves as a key operational resource for the Payroll Customer Engagement and Analytics team, contributing to the effectiveness, consistency, compliance, and accessibility of payroll services for the University community through stakeholder engagement, resource management, process improvement, and strategic communications. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Knowledge Management, Documentation, and Resource Administration (35%) 

• Website Administration, Technology Coordination, and Resource Accessibility (25%) 

• Stakeholder Communications and Outreach (20%) 

• Business Process Improvement and Operational Support (20%) 

Required Qualifications:    

To be considered for this opportunity, your application must demonstrate that you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration 

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree and three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in program operations, business operations, communications, knowledge management, process improvement, project coordination, or a related field. Equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills have been acquired may substitute for degree.  

• Demonstrated experience developing, managing, and maintaining operational documentation, knowledge resources, communications, business process materials, or program support initiatives.  

• Knowledge of business process documentation, knowledge management practices, stakeholder engagement, communications strategies, and continuous process improvement methodologies.  

• Experience developing and maintaining web-based content, online resources, content management systems, or collaboration platforms, or digital knowledge management tools.  

• Demonstrated ability to analyze business processes, evaluate stakeholder needs, and recommend solutions that improve operational effectiveness and customer service.  

• Proven ability to build collaborative relationships and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including leadership, operational partners, technical teams, and end users.  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to translate complex information into clear, accurate, and user-friendly resources.  

• Experience managing multiple priorities, coordinating projects, and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced operational environment.  

• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams to support operational improvements, technology implementations, communication initiatives, or process enhancement projects.  

• Demonstrated experience in working with diverse groups, stakeholders, and teams; collaborative, inclusive, and service-oriented leadership style and the ability to foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and teamwork. 

Desired 

• Experience supporting HR, Payroll, Finance, or enterprise business systems within the University of Washington or a comparable higher education environment.  

• Experience developing operational documentation, stakeholder resources, communications, or process improvement initiatives is preferred. 

About the Team    

Finance, Planning, and Budgeting (FPB) encompasses the major central financial, planning, analytical, and budgeting functions for the University of Washington, including:      

• Financial Stewardship & Operations      

• Institutional Analytics & Decision Support      

• Budget, Policy & Strategy      

• University Business Service   

• Real Estate   

• Treasury 

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$69,720.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$86,004.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

Not Applicable

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.