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Local Government Payroll Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Specialist

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$55K - $87K/yr

Job Summary $55,910 - $87,242 / year DOQ + Full-Time County Benefits Payroll Specialist performs ... local government accounting experience preferred. * Must possess reliable transportation to work ...

... local government accounting experience preferred. Must possess reliable transportation to work site(s). Knowledge of data entry, automated financial recordkeeping systems, and various microcomputer ...

Payroll Manager

Reston, VA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

We provide top-notch service to various branches of the federal government and prioritize community ... Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll tax laws and labor regulations. * Act ...

We provide top-notch service to various branches of the federal government and prioritize community ... local laws and union and Service Contract Act (SCA) requirements. This role manages payroll ...

Manager of Payroll The Payroll Manager is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of ... local law. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military ...

We provide top-notch service to various branches of the federal government and prioritize community ... local laws and union and Service Contract Act (SCA) requirements. This role manages payroll ...

Payroll Specialist

Spotsylvania, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

... a growing government contracting organization. This individual is responsible for processing ... Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations ...

Sr. Manager, Payroll

Herndon, VA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Payroll related set up for new contracts/companies. * Managing the activities of a centralized ... Local to Herndon, Virginia preferred but not required * Federal Government Contracting experience ...

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including tax filings and ... Experience in industries such as professional services, government contracting, or multi-entity ...

Payroll Specialist 16819282

Vienna, VA · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations * Maintain payroll records and ... Experience in industries such as professional services, nonprofit, or government contracting Why ...

Payroll Manager 16819279

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including tax filings and ... Experience in industries such as professional services, government contracting, or multi-entity ...

Payroll Accountant

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

$75K - $80K/yr

Track and manage the registration of new state withholding, unemployment and local jurisdiction ... government contractor Solid understanding of basic accounting principles Self-motivated with ...

Payroll Administrator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Respond to requests for records as required by subpoena, government agency, audit, or other ... Maintain knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local payroll requirements and company ...

Payroll Accountant

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

... state and local agencies • Assist with new hires project ID requests for setup and work with ... for a government contractor • Solid understanding of basic accounting principles • Self ...

... with all government regulations and company guidelines. Support the planning and strategic ... Ensure full compliance of payroll processes and procedures with all federal, state, and local ...

... with all government regulations and company guidelines. Support the planning and strategic ... Ensure full compliance of payroll processes and procedures with all federal, state, and local ...

Payroll Specialist

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Stay informed about federal, state, and local payroll regulations and ensure compliance with ... Research and resolve payroll tax issues by working directly with government agencies and ADP.

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Showing results 1-20

Local Government Payroll information

See Virginia salary details

$15

$27

$38

How much do local government payroll jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for local government payroll in Virginia is $27.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.40 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a local government payroll professional do?

A Local Government Payroll professional is responsible for managing the payroll processes for employees working within a city, county, or other local government entity. Their duties include calculating wages, withholding taxes, processing benefits, and ensuring compliance with government regulations. They also maintain payroll records, handle employee inquiries about pay, and coordinate with other departments to ensure accurate and timely payments. This role is critical for ensuring that all government staff are paid correctly and on schedule. Additionally, payroll professionals must stay updated on changes in laws and regulations affecting employee compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a local government payroll professional?

To excel in Local Government Payroll, you need a solid understanding of payroll processes, labor laws, and accounting principles, often supported by relevant education or certifications in payroll or finance. Familiarity with payroll software (such as ADP or Kronos), timekeeping systems, and government-specific reporting tools is typically required. Attention to detail, confidentiality, and strong organizational skills help professionals manage sensitive data and complex regulations. These abilities are essential to ensure accurate, compliant, and timely payroll operations within the public sector.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in local government payroll, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in local government payroll often encounter challenges such as navigating complex and frequently changing regulations, ensuring timely and accurate payments for a diverse workforce, and managing tight deadlines during payroll cycles. These challenges can be managed by staying up-to-date with relevant laws and policies, implementing robust payroll software, and maintaining clear communication with HR and finance departments. Attention to detail and strong organizational skills are essential, as errors can affect employee satisfaction and compliance.

What is the difference between Local Government Payroll vs Local Government Human Resources Assistant?

AspectLocal Government PayrollLocal Government Human Resources Assistant
Required CredentialsPayroll certifications, basic accounting knowledgeHR certifications, administrative skills
Work EnvironmentOffice setting within government agenciesOffice environment, often interacting with staff and departments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government payroll departmentsUsed in government HR departments
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for administrative roles in government financeRelated but focuses on HR functions

While both roles operate within government agencies, Local Government Payroll specialists focus on processing employee payments and maintaining payroll records, requiring accounting and payroll certifications. In contrast, Local Government Human Resources Assistants handle broader HR functions like recruitment, employee relations, and record-keeping. Both roles are essential for effective government operations but differ in their specific responsibilities and skill sets.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Local Government Payroll jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Local Government Payroll job openings:

Infographic showing various Local Government Payroll job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,493 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Payroll Specialist

James City County

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

$55K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 12 days ago


James City County rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

763rd of 849 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Summary

$55,910 - $87,242 / year DOQ + Full-Time County Benefits 

Payroll Specialist performs responsible work preparing, maintaining, and reviewing complex fiscal or related payroll records including County and fiscal agency official financial records, performing complex calculations, reconciling reports and assisting in preparing and distributing various financial reports.

Responsibilities:

• Audit and review time and attendance data for export to payroll system.
• Responds, both verbally and in writing, to a wide variety of inquiries from the public, vendors, County offices, or fiscal agencies; interprets County policies and applicable state policies to vendors, the public, and other County employees.
• Assists with reconciliation for health, dental, and other payroll related general ledger accounts.
• Assists with the monthly reconciliation for the health insurance vendor’s charges.
• Prepares monthly payroll reports for distribution to County departments and fiscal agencies.
• Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Any combination of education and experience equivalent to an Associate’s degree in accounting, business administration, or related field; some accounting experience using complex financial systems; local government accounting experience preferred.
• Must possess reliable transportation to work site(s).
• Knowledge of data entry, automated financial recordkeeping systems, and various microcomputer software packages; and standard office procedures, practices, and equipment; knowledge of principles, methods, and practices of accounting, tax, ledger recording, balancing, and financial reporting; principles and processes for providing customer service including setting and meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
• Skill in use of computer software, especially Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other County employees and the public; maintain complex records, assemble and organize data, and prepare reports from such records; exercise independent judgment and initiative and attention to detail in accordance with established policies and procedures with minimal supervision.

Click here ​for full job description. Accepting applications until position is filled. Cover letters and resumes may also be attached, but a fully completed application is required for your application to be considered.

James City County is dedicated to building a diverse workforce and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations. If you need assistance with completing the employment application, please contact the HR Department at 757-253-6680 or email HR.Recruit@jamescitycountyva.gov.


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