Payroll Manager

Robert Half is seeking an experienced Payroll Manager/ Consultant to support our organization in overseeing a payroll system implementation on a long-term approximately 2 years contract basis. The ideal Payroll Manager candidate will bring proven expertise in California public sector payroll administration, ensuring compliance with state and local labor laws, collective bargaining with the ability to collaborate across departments and provide guidance on best practices. Prior public sector, school, education industry experience a must have. This role will be located onsite in Downey, CA.

Key Responsibilities:

Manage end-to-end payroll processing for public sector employees, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and complianceEnsure compliance with California labor laws, union agreements, and public agency reporting requirements.

Serve as a subject matter expert for payroll practices, advising leadership on policies, procedures, and regulatory updates. payroll systems, generating reports and audits as needed.

Manage employee inquiries and resolve payroll issues promptly and effectively.

Partner with Finance, Legal, and other departments to streamline processes and maintain accurate documentation.

Supervise payroll staff and provide training, mentorship, and performance feedback.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field (Master's preferred).Minimum 5+ years of payroll management experience, with at least 3 years in a California public sector environment (city, county, state, special district, or education agency).Strong knowledge of CalPERS, CalSTRS, FLSA, and California wage and hour laws.

Experience with collective bargaining agreements and union negotiations preferred.

Proficiency in payroll (e.g., PeopleSoft, ADP, Workday, SAP, Tyler Munis).Excellent organizational, analytical, and interpersonal skills with the ability to manage confidential information.

Strong leadership skills and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.