OPT Payroll Analyst Jobs
Payroll Analyst roles are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in accounting, finance, or human resources. Most positions qualify as specialty occupations, supporting both STEM OPT extensions and H-1B visa sponsorship. Employers in this field routinely hire international candidates and are familiar with OPT work authorization requirements.
See All OPT Payroll Analyst JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 45+ Payroll Analyst jobs
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
See all 45+ Payroll Analyst Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Payroll Analyst roles.
Get Access To All JobsJob Summary
- OPEN ONLY TO CITY EMPLOYEES WHO HAVE COMPLETED AN INITIAL PROBATIONARY PERIOD.
Participates in the routine processing of the City’s payroll functions and works with the Payroll Administrator to plan for and conduct non-routine processes. Identifies and troubleshoots payroll processing problems and coordinates efforts to resolve problems and improve ongoing operations.
SUPERVISION
Works under the general supervision of the Payroll Administrator. Work direction is provided to Payroll Specialists.
Representative Duties
Participates in bi-weekly payroll processing in accordance with various Memorandums of Understanding (MOU)s, employment contracts, and federal and state rules and regulations, including but not limited to Public Employers Retirement Law, Internal Revenue Service, Social Security Administration, California State Franchise Tax Board, Fair Labor Standards Act, and California Government Code.
Utilizes the City’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to process and record payroll and provide a multitude of reports to City staff and government agencies.
Prepares and coordinates the recordkeeping and transfer of funds for payroll-related costs, pension benefit costs and deferred compensation and numerous other payroll deductions including donations to charities, bargaining unit dues, and insurance-related deductions.
Maintains records of hours worked for City employees, using both manual and electronic timekeeping systems.
Maintains accrual balances for sick leave, vacation, personal leave, and various other leaves in accordance with the City’s Memoranda of Understanding (MOU’s).
Researches information, conducts quantitative and qualitative analyses, and prepares associated recommendations and reports.
Provides input regarding the formulation of policies and procedures to comply with local, state, and federal regulations.
Prepares required state and federal reports, including reports for CalPERS and other governmental agencies.
Participates in the preparation of an annual payout for cashable leave day and sick leave.
Assists the Financial Operations Manager and interdepartmental teams in establishing and forecasting payroll-related costs for budgetary and planning purposes.
Leads the processing of court-ordered adjustments to payroll, such as child support and non-payment of taxes.
Coordinates with Human Resources Department and Information Systems Department staff to implement retroactive and prospective payroll changes.
Assists the Payroll Administrator in the preparation of annual and quarterly employer tax returns and W-2s.
Responds to inquiries related to retirement final compensation, retroactive adjustments, and miscellaneous payroll inquiries.
Assists the Payroll Administrator in the preparation and reconciliation of payroll accounts to the general ledger and prepare necessary correcting journal entries, fiduciary fund reconciliation, general ledger interface preparation, monthly and quarterly journal entries.
Develops and implements training programs and materials for end-users.
Performs routine updates and maintenance of the payroll system, including maintenance of pay codes and work orders.
Assists in the implementation, configuration, maintenance, testing and training on new or modified payroll systems.
May assist Payroll Specialists in processing changes to withholdings, savings plans, deferred compensation, deductions for donations and other payroll transactions.
Assists in the development of best practices and improvements to payroll processes.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Requirements
Knowledge of:
- Principles, methods, and practices of California local government payroll operations
- Local government accounting principles, standards, practices and systems
- Applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations pertaining to payroll administration
- CalPERS rules and regulations
- Public Employee Retirement Law
- Use of ERP software systems, spreadsheet, and word processing programs
- Modern office practices and procedures
- Quantitative and qualitative management analysis techniques
- Principles and techniques of providing work direction to others
- Principles of training
- Principles of customer service
Ability to:
- Analyze, interpret, and explain laws, rules, regulations, MOUs, and employment contracts
- Analyze and interpret payroll related financial data
- Create, prepare, and maintain accurate records and reports
- Lead and coordinate the work of others
- Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
- Meet deadlines and respond to divergent needs of City departments concurrently, making optimal use of resources
- Follow written and oral instructions
- Provide effective customer service
- Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with City employees, various businesses and agencies and the general public
- Work with persons from diverse social, cultural, and economic backgrounds as well as a variety of work styles, personalities, and approaches
Skill in:
- Using a personal computer and applicable software applications
Minimum Qualifications:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree AND four years of recent, paid and progressively responsible finance experience, including three years of professional level experience in payroll administration. Municipal payroll experience and experience leading and coordinating the work of others is desirable.
Supplemental Information
The City of Santa Monica is a progressive, inclusive and culturally-rich community. As leaders in public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a workforce where people of diverse races, religions, cultures and lifestyles thrive. Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where our employees are empowered to perform at their highest level and where their differences make a positive impact.
The City is an equal opportunity employer and strives to build balanced teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. We aim to create a workplace that celebrates and embraces the diversity of our employees. Join us!
HOW TO APPLY:
All applicants must submit an online City application and required supplemental questions to be considered for this position. Please note, applications may be rejected if incomplete. Resumes, CVs and cover letters are not reviewed as part of the application screening process and should not be submitted.
NOTE: You must submit a copy of your college level transcripts or diploma with your application if you wish for your education to be considered when evaluating your application. Applicants who indicate receipt of college level coursework or degree from a foreign institution must provide United States credential equivalency verification along with a copy of your college diploma/transcripts. All materials must be received in the Human Resources Department no later than close of business on the application closing date. Failure to do so will result in your application being disqualified. You must upload and attach a scanned copy of your transcripts or diploma to your on-line application.
SELECTION PROCESS:
All applicants will be reviewed and only those candidates determined to be most qualified on the basis of experience, training, and education, as submitted, will be invited to participate further in the selection process. Testing may consist of a combination of any of the following and is subject to change as needs dictate:
Testing may consist of the following:
- Training & Experience Evaluation - Qualifying
- Oral Interview - 90%
- Seniority - 10%
NOTE: Applicants must have completed an initial probationary period by the filing date and have permanent status with the City of Santa Monica.
Special assistance with the application and examination process is available, upon request, for persons with disabilities. Call (310) 458-8246, TDD (310) 458-8696 (Hearing Impaired Only).
Please note that the request for reasonable accommodations must be made to Human Resources at least three work days prior to the examination.
BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS:
Candidates who have successfully completed all prior phases of the selection process will be subject to a thorough background investigation.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a busy office environment with frequent interruptions. Must be able to handle a high volume of work and meet deadlines. Office work may require sitting for prolonged periods of time and using a computer keyboard, mouse, and screen. Physical demands include frequent sitting, standing, reaching, bending, and lifting. On occasion, may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Job Summary
- OPEN ONLY TO CITY EMPLOYEES WHO HAVE COMPLETED AN INITIAL PROBATIONARY PERIOD.
Participates in the routine processing of the City’s payroll functions and works with the Payroll Administrator to plan for and conduct non-routine processes. Identifies and troubleshoots payroll processing problems and coordinates efforts to resolve problems and improve ongoing operations.
SUPERVISION
Works under the general supervision of the Payroll Administrator. Work direction is provided to Payroll Specialists.
Representative Duties
Participates in bi-weekly payroll processing in accordance with various Memorandums of Understanding (MOU)s, employment contracts, and federal and state rules and regulations, including but not limited to Public Employers Retirement Law, Internal Revenue Service, Social Security Administration, California State Franchise Tax Board, Fair Labor Standards Act, and California Government Code.
Utilizes the City’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to process and record payroll and provide a multitude of reports to City staff and government agencies.
Prepares and coordinates the recordkeeping and transfer of funds for payroll-related costs, pension benefit costs and deferred compensation and numerous other payroll deductions including donations to charities, bargaining unit dues, and insurance-related deductions.
Maintains records of hours worked for City employees, using both manual and electronic timekeeping systems.
Maintains accrual balances for sick leave, vacation, personal leave, and various other leaves in accordance with the City’s Memoranda of Understanding (MOU’s).
Researches information, conducts quantitative and qualitative analyses, and prepares associated recommendations and reports.
Provides input regarding the formulation of policies and procedures to comply with local, state, and federal regulations.
Prepares required state and federal reports, including reports for CalPERS and other governmental agencies.
Participates in the preparation of an annual payout for cashable leave day and sick leave.
Assists the Financial Operations Manager and interdepartmental teams in establishing and forecasting payroll-related costs for budgetary and planning purposes.
Leads the processing of court-ordered adjustments to payroll, such as child support and non-payment of taxes.
Coordinates with Human Resources Department and Information Systems Department staff to implement retroactive and prospective payroll changes.
Assists the Payroll Administrator in the preparation of annual and quarterly employer tax returns and W-2s.
Responds to inquiries related to retirement final compensation, retroactive adjustments, and miscellaneous payroll inquiries.
Assists the Payroll Administrator in the preparation and reconciliation of payroll accounts to the general ledger and prepare necessary correcting journal entries, fiduciary fund reconciliation, general ledger interface preparation, monthly and quarterly journal entries.
Develops and implements training programs and materials for end-users.
Performs routine updates and maintenance of the payroll system, including maintenance of pay codes and work orders.
Assists in the implementation, configuration, maintenance, testing and training on new or modified payroll systems.
May assist Payroll Specialists in processing changes to withholdings, savings plans, deferred compensation, deductions for donations and other payroll transactions.
Assists in the development of best practices and improvements to payroll processes.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Requirements
Knowledge of:
- Principles, methods, and practices of California local government payroll operations
- Local government accounting principles, standards, practices and systems
- Applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations pertaining to payroll administration
- CalPERS rules and regulations
- Public Employee Retirement Law
- Use of ERP software systems, spreadsheet, and word processing programs
- Modern office practices and procedures
- Quantitative and qualitative management analysis techniques
- Principles and techniques of providing work direction to others
- Principles of training
- Principles of customer service
Ability to:
- Analyze, interpret, and explain laws, rules, regulations, MOUs, and employment contracts
- Analyze and interpret payroll related financial data
- Create, prepare, and maintain accurate records and reports
- Lead and coordinate the work of others
- Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
- Meet deadlines and respond to divergent needs of City departments concurrently, making optimal use of resources
- Follow written and oral instructions
- Provide effective customer service
- Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with City employees, various businesses and agencies and the general public
- Work with persons from diverse social, cultural, and economic backgrounds as well as a variety of work styles, personalities, and approaches
Skill in:
- Using a personal computer and applicable software applications
Minimum Qualifications:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree AND four years of recent, paid and progressively responsible finance experience, including three years of professional level experience in payroll administration. Municipal payroll experience and experience leading and coordinating the work of others is desirable.
Supplemental Information
The City of Santa Monica is a progressive, inclusive and culturally-rich community. As leaders in public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a workforce where people of diverse races, religions, cultures and lifestyles thrive. Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where our employees are empowered to perform at their highest level and where their differences make a positive impact.
The City is an equal opportunity employer and strives to build balanced teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. We aim to create a workplace that celebrates and embraces the diversity of our employees. Join us!
HOW TO APPLY:
All applicants must submit an online City application and required supplemental questions to be considered for this position. Please note, applications may be rejected if incomplete. Resumes, CVs and cover letters are not reviewed as part of the application screening process and should not be submitted.
NOTE: You must submit a copy of your college level transcripts or diploma with your application if you wish for your education to be considered when evaluating your application. Applicants who indicate receipt of college level coursework or degree from a foreign institution must provide United States credential equivalency verification along with a copy of your college diploma/transcripts. All materials must be received in the Human Resources Department no later than close of business on the application closing date. Failure to do so will result in your application being disqualified. You must upload and attach a scanned copy of your transcripts or diploma to your on-line application.
SELECTION PROCESS:
All applicants will be reviewed and only those candidates determined to be most qualified on the basis of experience, training, and education, as submitted, will be invited to participate further in the selection process. Testing may consist of a combination of any of the following and is subject to change as needs dictate:
Testing may consist of the following:
- Training & Experience Evaluation - Qualifying
- Oral Interview - 90%
- Seniority - 10%
NOTE: Applicants must have completed an initial probationary period by the filing date and have permanent status with the City of Santa Monica.
Special assistance with the application and examination process is available, upon request, for persons with disabilities. Call (310) 458-8246, TDD (310) 458-8696 (Hearing Impaired Only).
Please note that the request for reasonable accommodations must be made to Human Resources at least three work days prior to the examination.
BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS:
Candidates who have successfully completed all prior phases of the selection process will be subject to a thorough background investigation.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a busy office environment with frequent interruptions. Must be able to handle a high volume of work and meet deadlines. Office work may require sitting for prolonged periods of time and using a computer keyboard, mouse, and screen. Physical demands include frequent sitting, standing, reaching, bending, and lifting. On occasion, may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
See all 45+ OPT Payroll Analyst Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Payroll Analyst Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Payroll Analyst
Target employers with established payroll departments
Large companies with dedicated payroll teams are more likely to have HR infrastructure that understands OPT authorization. Mid-to-large employers in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing hire payroll analysts regularly and are familiar with work authorization paperwork.
Highlight your payroll software proficiency
Employers sponsoring OPT candidates want to minimize onboarding risk. Listing specific systems like Workday, ADP, or Ceridian on your resume signals immediate productivity and reduces hesitation about the administrative steps involved in hiring an international candidate.
Confirm your STEM OPT eligibility before applying
Payroll Analyst roles under accounting or information systems degree programs often qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Confirming eligibility before interviews lets you tell employers you have up to three years of work authorization without H-1B visa sponsorship.
Address OPT authorization proactively in applications
Many payroll employers screen out candidates they assume require immediate visa sponsorship. Clarifying that OPT is employer-authorized work, not a sponsored visa, removes a common objection early and keeps your application moving through the hiring process.
Pursue certifications that signal long-term commitment
The Fundamental Payroll Certification or Certified Payroll Professional credential demonstrates professional investment in the field. For OPT candidates, certifications also strengthen future H-1B petitions by supporting the specialty occupation argument for payroll roles.
Focus your search on companies already filing H-1B petitions
Employers who have previously sponsored H-1B workers for payroll or finance roles are more likely to extend that support to OPT candidates. Use Migrate Mate to find payroll analyst openings at companies with a documented history of sponsoring international professionals.
Payroll Analyst OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Payroll Analyst role qualify as a specialty occupation for OPT and H-1B purposes?
Payroll Analyst positions typically qualify as specialty occupations when the employer requires a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, human resources, or a related field. The key factor is whether the job description specifies a degree requirement in a particular discipline. Roles that accept any degree regardless of field are less likely to qualify. Review the job posting carefully before applying.
Can I work as a Payroll Analyst on STEM OPT?
Yes, if your degree is in a STEM-designated field such as accounting information systems, management information systems, or applied mathematics, your Payroll Analyst role may qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Standard accounting degrees are not always STEM-designated, so confirm your specific program's classification with your DSO before assuming STEM eligibility.
How do I find Payroll Analyst jobs that sponsor OPT students?
Migrate Mate is designed specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters job listings by employers open to sponsoring international candidates. Browsing Payroll Analyst roles on Migrate Mate surfaces employers who have already indicated willingness to work with OPT authorization, saving you from applying to companies that will screen you out at the authorization question.
What should I say when a Payroll Analyst employer asks about my visa status?
Be direct and clear. Explain that you hold F-1 OPT authorization, which allows you to work full time for any employer in a role related to your degree for up to 12 months, with a potential 24-month STEM extension. Emphasize that OPT does not require the employer to file any petition upfront, distinguishing it from H-1B sponsorship, which involves USCIS filing fees and lottery selection.
What happens to my Payroll Analyst job if my OPT expires before H-1B approval?
If your employer files an H-1B petition before your OPT expires and your OPT EAD is still valid on April 1, the cap-gap rule automatically extends your work authorization through September 30 of that year. This allows you to continue working as a Payroll Analyst without interruption while USCIS processes the petition. Confirm the timing with your DSO well before your EAD expiration date.