Job Description
Job DescriptionWe are looking for a detail-oriented payroll specialist to support accurate and timely payroll operations for a workforce in California. This role is well suited for someone who combines strong payroll knowledge with benefits administration experience and a careful approach to compliance, confidentiality, and employee support. The ideal candidate brings a solid understanding of California payroll practices and can manage payroll activities while helping maintain benefit programs and related records.
Responsibilities:
• Process end-to-end payroll for employees with a strong focus on accuracy, timeliness, and proper documentation.
• Review payroll data for earnings, deductions, taxes, and garnishments to ensure compliance with California regulations and internal controls.
• Administer employee benefit programs, including enrollments, qualifying life event updates, and annual open enrollment activities.
• Maintain payroll and benefits records while safeguarding sensitive employee information and resolving discrepancies promptly.
• Support union payroll administration by applying relevant pay rules, deductions, and reporting requirements correctly.
• Prepare payroll-related year-end activities, including W-2 coordination, reconciliations, and audit-ready documentation.
• Respond to employee questions related to pay, deductions, leave changes, and benefit coverage in a timely and courteous manner.
• Use spreadsheets and reporting tools to analyze payroll information, validate entries, and improve day-to-day accuracy.
• Partner with accounting, HR, and other internal stakeholders to ensure payroll and benefits processes run smoothly.• At least 5 years of experience in payroll, benefits, accounting, human resources, or a closely related function.
• Hands-on experience managing full-cycle payroll for an employee population ranging from approximately 101 to 500 employees.
• Working knowledge of union payroll practices and the ability to apply related rules accurately.
• Strong understanding of California payroll compliance, including garnishments, tax withholdings, year-end reporting, and payroll controls.
• Experience administering employee benefits, open enrollment, and updates related to leaves or life events.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and confidence working with payroll data, reconciliations, and reports.
• High level of accuracy, sound judgment with confidential information, and strong organizational skills.
• Spanish language skills are preferred.