HEAD CLERK

HEAD CLERK
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
CITY OF WORCESTER

The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Head Clerk for the Administration and Finance Division within the Department of Public Works. Under the direction of the Coordinator of Administration & Finance, the Head Clerk will be responsible for performing necessary activities to prepare, process, and maintain complex payroll and maintain detailed records for all employees. This position is also responsible for review and upkeep of Paid Time Off (PTO) for all employees. This role will involve daily interaction with the staff from all divisions via phone and email to ensure proper submission and recording of payroll activities. Daily work involves, but is not limited to, daily phone contact with divisions concerning their timesheets and any other concerns pertaining to pay; direct involvement with the Payroll Supervisor in regard to employee changes.

Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS:

• Perform data entry, file maintenance, and general administrative duties with accuracy and attention to
• Perform data entry, file maintenance, and general administrative duties with accuracy and attention to detail
• Manage and maintain payroll for various divisions as assigned
• Ensure information is received and entered daily and timely
• Resolve any discrepancies and variations with appropriate staff
• Provide escalated support for challenging issues
• Maintain, manage and process PTO for department employees
• Prepare and analyze reports and summaries as needed for management
• Provide support to the Coordinator of Administration & Finance and the Payroll Supervisor
• Perform reconciliation of various time to include MEO, Stipends and other hours

SECONDARY ELEMENTS:

• Sort and distribute documents as needed
• Maintain accurate files of payroll or other information pertaining to payroll
• Respond to Directors & Supervisors to answer questions and resolve discrepancies
• Attend to all other general office duties as needed and assigned

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Proven data entry skills with strong attention to detail to maintain accuracy and efficiency
• Extensive knowledge of payroll and associated procedures
• Experience operating standard office equipment including scanners and copiers
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite and computer proficiency
• Knowledge and experience with basic business accounting and payroll processes
• Ability to learn, understand, and follow written and/or verbal directions, policies, procedures and instructions
• Ability to quickly learn relevant information and systems
• Ability to establish and maintain collaborative working relationships with diverse employees
• Ability to solve problems according to written instructions or specifications
• Ability to solve conflicts while maintaining a professional and courteous manner
• Ability to manage priorities and multi-task in a fast-paced work environment
• Ability to meet deadlines under pressure
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to maintain professionalism with sometimes challenging situations
• Ability to assist in training new hires as needed
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work with confidential information and maintain confidentiality
• Regular onsite attendance is required

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Three (3) years of clerical experience in a professional office setting
• One (1) year of experience performing payroll functions
• Computer proficiency including Microsoft Office Suite 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate’s degree in business, finance, or related field
• Two (2) years of municipal accounting experience
• Two (2) years of experience working in a municipal setting
• Two (2) years of experience managing complex reports

SALARY RANGE: $26.29 – $31.71 hourly, full-time, with an excellent benefits package.

To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. OPEN UNTIL FILLED, applications received prior to or on FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2026, will receive preference. Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Direct inquiries to: City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, Hiring@worcesterma.gov.