Job Title: Payroll SpecialistJob Description We are seeking a dedicated Payroll Specialist to join our team on a temporary contract basis. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in assisting with payroll inquiries and processing various requests to ensure smooth payroll operations. This role requires a professional who excels in communication and problem-solving within a dynamic, team-oriented environment. Responsibilities + Assist payroll by triaging phone calls, TEAMS messages, email messages, and in-person inquiries regarding time entries and wage adjustments, payslips, health insurance, leave accruals, and other miscellaneous payroll and benefit questions, directing them to the appropriate payroll analyst. + Generate and format payroll reports required for payroll processing before the pay period and submission deadline. + Process Work Schedule Requests. + Process Leave Pay Out Requests. + Perform other duties as assigned by the HR Director or Deputy HR Director. Essential Skills + 2+ years of payroll experience. + Experience with benefits, garnishments, and tax deductions. + Proficiency in Excel, including Pivot Tables and VLOOKUP. + Personable and professional demeanor. + Strong attention to detail. + Excellent communication skills. + Problem-solving ability. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Experience with cloud-based payroll systems such as Workday. + Experience in payroll and customer service, particularly in handling difficult situations. + Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification. + Bachelor’s degree. + Experience with Oracle ERP. + Previous government work experience. Work Environment This position offers a hybrid work environment, with the first week of training on-site and subsequent workdays primarily remote, requiring one day per week in the office. The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with flexible start and end times. You will be joining a supportive, team-oriented culture that values direct and straightforward communication. The team comprises three payroll specialists serving an agency of approximately 1,500 employees. Benefits include 401k, sick pay, and eight holidays. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Portland, OR. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $25.54 - $29.82/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a hybrid position in Portland,OR. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jan 23, 2026. About Aston Carter: Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com (%20astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com) for other accommodation options.