JOB TITLE: Payroll Specialist – Payroll Team
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE: Reports to the Payroll Manager – Home Office
FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt – Full Time
DEPARTMENT: Accounting
LOCATION: Lynnwood Home Office
POSITION SUMMARY
This entry-level payroll position contributes to the success of Zumiez by ensuring the accurate and timely payment of over 9,000 employees. The role supports daily payroll operations including manual check processing, garnishments, payroll adjustments, timekeeping audits, Workforce Management (WFM) edits, and employee support activities in a collaborative team environment.
This position plays an important role in maintaining payroll accuracy, compliance, and service excellence for internal business partners and employees.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Payroll Operations Support
- Administer daily manual check runs, including terminations and ACH returns
- Support out-of-cycle payroll processing as needed
- Assist with bi-weekly payroll processing activities
- Process Workforce Management (WFM) edits in a timely manner
- Maintain accurate payroll records and documentation
Audits & Controls
- Perform regular audits of payroll and timekeeping data to ensure accuracy and compliance
- Review timekeeping inputs and resolve discrepancies prior to payroll processing
- Conduct audits to ensure employees are properly set up with direct deposit or pay cards prior to payroll processing
- Support ongoing payroll control improvements and documentation of audit procedures
Garnishments & Compliance
- Process garnishments, including setup and refunds
- Support statutory reporting (e.g., BLS, minimum wage reporting, Service Canada as applicable)
- Maintain confidentiality of payroll and employee data at all times
Employee Support & Administration
- Provide high-quality customer service to employees and internal business partners
- Respond to payroll inquiries in a timely manner
- Complete employment verifications
- Support payroll mailbox and general administrative tasks
- Assist payroll team members as needed
Process Improvement
- Maintain documentation of assigned processes
- Recommend and support process improvements
- Adapt quickly to changing business needs
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Strong attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines
- Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
- Strong customer service mindset
- Ability to work in a team environment and meet commitments
- Ability to handle confidential information appropriately
- Basic Excel proficiency (intermediate preferred)
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION
- 1–2 years of customer service or office experience preferred
- Experience with payroll cycles and systems such as UKG, Ceridian, Wisely, or Infor preferred
- High School Diploma or equivalent required
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions
BENEFITS
- Salary Range: $50,000-55,000 annually
- Long Term Incentive eligible
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance following an initial waiting period
- 401(k) after meeting eligibility requirements
- Paid Parental Leave
- Life Insurance
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Sick Leave
- Stock Purchase Program
- Employee Discount on Zumiez products
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