Accountant III - Payroll Manager - Youth Services & Hospitals
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Accountant III - Payroll Manager - Youth Services & Hospitals
Salary
$82,836.00 - $103,200.00 Annually
Location
Denver Metro, CO
Job Type
Full Time
Job Number
IHA 05489 01/22/2026
Department
Colorado Department of Human Services
Division
Financial Services
Opening Date
01/22/2026
Closing Date
2/12/2026 11:59 PM Mountain
FLSA
Determined by Position
Type of Announcement
This position is open only to Colorado state residents.
Primary Physical Work Address
3814 W. Princeton Circle Denver, CO 80236
Hiring Pay Rate
$3186.00 - $3969.23
FLSA Status
Exempt; position is not eligible for overtime compensation.
Department Contact Information
Gerald.Barajas@state.co.us
How To Apply
Please submit an online application for this position at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colorado. Reach out to the Department Contact to apply using a paper application, including any supplemental questions. Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed.
Description
Benefits
Questions
Department Information
This position is open to current Colorado residents only.
Please note: This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
Remote Work/Hybrid: In office 2 days a week, (Wednesday & Thursday) Remote 3 days a week
Fort Logan Campus 3814 W. Princeton Cir., Denver, CO 80236
Most State of Colorado employees are eligible for a great benefit package! Please see the Supplemental Information section below for details (https://dhr.colorado.gov/state-employees/state-of-colorado-employee-benefits) !
This requires a need for strong analytical skills and advanced proficiency with data manipulation and analysis in Excel, focusing on key functions like VLOOKUP , XLOOKUP , and PivotTables . This requires you to pass a practical test demonstrating these core skills for data lookups, aggregations, and reporting, often involving formulas, conditional formatting, and data visualization. You'll need to show you can clean, analyze, and present data effectively to support decisions, potentially using other advanced features like INDEX/MATCH or data validation. This Test must be passed in order to continue on in the application process. This is an excellent mid management opportunity that will be full of learning and potential to expand both knowledge and role within the department and state system.
Description of Job
Remote Work/Hybrid: In office 2 days a week, (Wednesday & Thursday) Remote 3 days a week
Please note: These working arrangements are subject to change.
Fort Logan Campus 3814 W. Princeton Cir., Denver, CO 80236
About this Unit:
The Payroll and Timekeeping Unit at CDHS is responsible for processing accurate and timely payroll for over 5,500 employees across the state of Colorado. CDHS operates 12 distinct programs, including executive offices, 2 mental health institutes, 3 regional centers, the Division of Youth Services, the Behavioral Health Administration, and 4 veterans' homes. We support multiple pay cycles-monthly, biweekly, and 7k schedules-each with its own complexities and requirements.
About this Position:
The Payroll Managerexists to (a) supervise assigned payroll supervisor's and float position staff , (b) ensure accurate and timely payroll and timekeeping functions are performed effectively, efficiently, timely and in a professional manner to provide accurate payroll payments to employees and to ensure accurate deductions for all applicable taxes, insurance, and other payroll deductions; proper payments are made to third parties; accurate reporting for management, W-2s, and other reporting purposes, (c) prepare documents and reconciliations to respond to audit requests as received by the Office of the State Auditor or other outside auditors (d) advise staff on areas within the department, to correct audit deficiencies, and other issues that arise, (e) ensure critical procedures updated based on current applicable regulations, are trained to necessary staff and are ultimately put into place for performance to maintain the operation of the systems, functions and operations of the Payroll and Timekeeping department. (g) function as back up for the Department Payroll Administrator and subordinate staff in their absence.
This position is fully accountable for the work product of three direct subordinate positions as well as second level reporting staff. This position assigns tasks, monitors progress and work flow, verifies, schedules work, and establishes work standards. The purpose of regular work contacts outside of the supervisory chain are often for the purpose of finding information or solving problems where the issues or results are not already known.
Summary of Duties:
Review and Analysis:
Determines compliance/noncompliance of payroll/timekeeping practices by researching federal and state rules, accounting practices and regulations. Identifies and resolves management issues that need improvement. Develops, establishes, modifies and implements procedures to maintain compliance.
Analyzes problem areas and devises resolutions that assure the integrity of the resulting information. Implements altered or new procedures. Analyzes and formulates needed process changes within payroll/timekeeping, based on attendance at meetings requiring the payroll/timekeeping unit's input, view point, participation, or concerning topics that may impact payroll/timekeeping functions and staff. Designs and implements appropriate plans of action.
Participates in system assessment, design and roll out as applicable to assigned duties for both departmental and state wide systems and projects. Provides insight on over all impacts and participates in a leadership capacity within the payroll department
Supervision:
Direct Supervision of Payroll Supervisors (Accountant II's) and Accounting Technicians as Direct and Indirect subordinates. Direct supervision of at least three staff and indirect supervision of direct reports subordinates.
Supervises assigned subordinates which could include interviewing, training, planning work schedules, leave approval and performance evaluations. Provides payroll and timekeeping guidance and supplies input for job performance evaluation.
Monitors staff proficiency in assigned duties in order to assess the need for intervention or to recognize success for further skills utilization. Provides guidance to all subordinates regarding policies and procedures. Analyzes changing federal and state rules, selects the most effective and efficient process, implements, and provides direction to necessary staff.
Compliance and Customer Service:
Applies generally accepted accounting principles, federal, state and department rules and regulations to resolve non-routine issues, disputes and questions concerning hours worked, leave and overtime calculations, and payroll calculations and adjustments for employees. Reviews points in contention, negotiates and mediates a reasonable resolution while assessing if departmental process or procedure changes are necessary. Provides guidance and expertise to subordinate staff and customers in the areas of department assigned duties. Meets with employees and/or supervisors as necessary to explain generally accepted accounting principles, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures that apply to payroll and timekeeping functions. Ensures ongoing compliance with all relevant federal and state legislation, policies, and procedures affecting the assigned areas of responsibility, including the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Public Employees' Retirement Association (PERA), Colorado Code of Regulations, Colorado WINS agreements, Department of Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, and the State of Colorado Fiscal Rules.
Promotes and maintains positive and effective relationships between the payroll team members, human resources, department timekeepers, supervisors, employees, Central Payroll, and other stakeholders. Acts as a liaison with Human Resources and Benefits/Risk Management. Establishes and implements appropriate procedures to prevent and/or resolve issues.
Interface with Auditors
Gathers and analyzes requested documentation for auditors. Has final accountability for submission of the work product including timeliness, correctness, and soundness. Serves as an expert to auditors in matters concerning payroll and timekeeping procedures.
Back up CDHS Payroll Manager (Accountant II's)
Serves as a back up to the other CDHS Payroll Supervisors (Accountant II's).
Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights
Minimum Qualifications:
Experience Only:
Eight (8) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position, specifically accounting, finance, payroll
OR
Education and Experience:
A combination of related education (coursework requires 27 semester hours completed in accounting or auditing) and/or relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned equal to eight (8) years
Current, valid licensure as a CPA by the Colorado Board of Accountancy will count for six (6) years of the requirement
Please note: This experience must be clearly documented on your application and the supplemental questions must be answered.
The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills and advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including functions such as VLOOKUP, XLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, and data analysis . Candidates must complete and pass an Excel skills test as part of the hiring process to demonstrate these abilities.
Definition of Professional Experience:
While not fully encompassing, professional accounting experience is defined by the Colorado Department of Human Services as work that typically involves the following components:
Analysis of financial transactions to determine accuracy, completeness, and conformance to established policies and procedures and generally accepted accounting standards
Preparing, analyzing, and interpreting financial reports, statements and records, (e.g. balance sheets, profit and loss statements, amortization and depreciation schedules)
Assembling data and creating financial projections
Developing, implementing, modifying and documenting accounting systems
Reconciliation of accounts using excel and google sheets
Calculating and estimating effects of proposed changes in operating programs or accounting operations;
Auditing processes
Revenue recognition & contract completion recognition
Account troubleshooting and problem solving
Implementing and/or designing of financial controls
GL system maintenance
Making account recommendations
Preferred Qualifications (preference will be given to candidates with these qualifications):
High levels of attention to detail
Understanding of details and system interactions and potential impacts
Excellent communications skills
Experience dealing with difficult situations and customers
Detailed data analytic skills
2 years of supervisory experience
Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office software, specifically Excel and Access and/or google products
Demonstrated experience working with CORE (Advantage)
Preference will be given to candidates with public-sector and/or government accounting experience
Demonstrated knowledge and experience with program accounting principles and practices with human-services related programs
Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate having greater depth of experience and knowledge related to accounting principles and practices.
Conditions of Employment:
Standard Background - Name check, TRAILS, CMS and JBITS
This position requires State of Colorado residency at the time of application (unless otherwise identified in this position), and residency within the state throughout the duration of employment in this position.
Occasional travel, as needed, to facilities or other offices related to training and department requirements
Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must
disclose that information on the application
provide an explanation why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify the applicant from the current position,
provide the employee number from the applicant's prior State employment. Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination and failure to provide this information will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with CDHS
Appeal Rights
You may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated. You will find the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it on the State Personnel Board (https://spb.colorado.gov/) website.
You or your representative must sign and submit the official appeal form for review.
You can find the official appeal form here (https://spb.colorado.gov/sites/spb/files/documents/Consolidated%20Appeal%20-%20Form%20-%202025.pdf) .
You must be deliver the official appeal form to the State Personnel Board:
By email (dpa_state.personnelboard@state.co.us), or
Postmarked in US Mail to(1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203, or
Hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or
Faxed (303.866.5038) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department's action.
Contact the State Personnel Board for assistance:
At (303) 866-3300, or
Refer to the Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, within the Rules (https://spb.colorado.gov/board-rules) webpage.
Supplemental Information
Supplemental Information
How to apply to the State of Colorado (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKuwGdPpOW0) (Youtube Video, Runtime 3:59, Closed Captions Available)
The Assessment Process (https://cdhs.colorado.gov/information-for-job-applicants#assessment-process)
For additional recruiting questions, please contact Gerald.Barajas@state.co.us
CDHS Selection Process Explanation
Employment history is calculated on a full-time basis (40/hrs per week). Part-time employment is calculated on a prorated basis to determine qualifications. Be sure your application specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, work products, and accomplishments as they relate to the position and minimum requirements.
Preferred Qualifications & Competencies
Relevant years of state service experience
Minimum Qualification Screening Process
A Human Resources Analyst will review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether your experience meets the minimum qualifications for the position. You must complete the official State of Colorado online application. Cover letters and resumes WILL NOT be reviewed during the minimum qualifications screening process. You must specifically document your work experience and qualifications. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached."
You must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process. Part-time work experience will be prorated.
Comparative Analysis Process - Structured Application Review
After minimum qualification screening, the comparative analysis process will involve a review and rating of all the information you submit. The comparative analysis step may also include your results from an eSkills Test.
Your Work Experience/Job Duties
Document your work experience/job duties to the extent to which you possess the skills, education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications.
If listed, answer all supplemental questions as your answers to these questions will be evaluated during this phase. Provide at least 4-8 sentences for each supplemental question.
Supplemental Questions
Answer the supplemental questions completely and thoughtfully. We will rate your answers based on the content of your response and your writing skills (spelling, grammar, and clarity of your writing).
About Us & Benefits
If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (https://www.colorado.gov/cdhs) (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of the people of Colorado. Each of us is committed to contributing to a safe and accessible CDHS . In addition to a great location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:
Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans
Medical (https://dhr.colorado.gov/state-employees/state-employee-benefits/medical-benefits) and dental (https://dhr.colorado.gov/state-employees/state-employee-benefits/dental-insurance) health plans
Employer supplemented Health Savings Account
Paid life insurance
Short- and long-term disability coverage (https://dhr.colorado.gov/state-employees/state-employee-benefits/disability-insurance)
11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave
State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center (https://stateofcolorado.benefithub.com/app/home)
Employee Wellness program
Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more
Remote work arrangements for eligible positions
*Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (https://dhr.colorado.gov/dhr-resources/student-loan-forgiveness-programs) .
Our Values:
We believe in a people-first approach: We prioritize the needs, well-being, and dignity of the individuals, families and communities we serve. We commit to respect, fairness and access in every decision, policy and interaction. We engage client voices and experiences in the development and implementation of the services we provide.
Balance creates quality of life: We want our team to be resilient through a supportive workplace that values flexibility, health and wellness, and employee engagement.
We hold ourselves accountable: We take responsibility through our actions, programs, and results for the state of health and human services in Colorado.
Transparency matters: We are open and honest with employees, our partners, the Coloradans we serve, and the public.
We are ethical: We abide by what is best for those we serve by doing what is right, not what is easy.
Collaboration helps us rise together: We work together with all partners, employees, and clients to achieve the best outcomes for Coloradans.
ADAA Accommodations:
CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment.
This includes completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or performing essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to cdhs_ada@state.co.us .
EEO Statement
The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer
We are committed to increasing a "Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities. The State of Colorado believes that a "Colorado for ALL" drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.
Additional Support For Your Application
Toll Free Applicant Technical Support
If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV technical support at 855-524-5627 Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application 1) ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and 2) close the document before you attempt to upload (attach) it.
~THE STATE OF COLORADO IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER~
Toll Free Applicant Technical Support (https://cdhs.colorado.gov/information-for-job-applicants#technical-support)
The State of Colorado offers permanent employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for detailed information: www.colorado.gov/pacific/dhr/benefits
Please note that each agency's contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon.
01
Your legal name is used in the hiring process for background checks. Did you use your full legal name in your application? If not, please update your information before submitting your application.
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02
The bottom of this job announcement provides links to additional information on how to apply, the assessment process, toll free applicant technical support, and about how the State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. Please acknowledge below that you have read the information provided in these links.
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I am unable to access the links with this information on the job posting. (If you select this option, please contact the recruiter, whose information is listed on this announcement, so that they can send this information directly to you.)
03
If you are a current or former State of Colorado employee, please list your employee number (starts with 997...). Your application may be considered incomplete if you do not provide this information. An incomplete application may not move forward in the selection process. If you a re a former or current state employee, please identify what state agency you work(ed) with and how many years of relevant state service you have related to the position you are applying for. (Ensure this is listed on your application under work experience).
04
Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose the information on the application. In the space below, please provide an explanation as to why the prior termination or resignation should NOT disqualify your application from the current position.
05
In an effort to support your needs for compensation, please list your starting salary expectations. NOTE: "Negotiable" or responses with no range given may affect your status in the selection process.
06
Please describe your previous and/or current professional accounting experience. If this does not apply to you, @type "N/A" in the box below. Do not @type "See Resume" for this question.
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08
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09
Describe your experience as being a part of a team. What are the benefits of a team and the pitfalls?
10
What is your ideal working environment?
11
What interests you most about this position?
12
How do you manage competing deadlines?
13
How do you feel when your work is not finished at the end of the day?
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What is your learning style?
15
Describe your experience managing staff.
16
Describe is your experience training staff.
17
Describe your experience with payroll, time reporting, benefits and leave situations such as FMl or injury leave.
Required Question
Employer
State of Colorado
Address
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the "Printer" icon located above the job title
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Website
https://careers.colorado.gov/
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