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RH
Robert Half
Payroll Specialist
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Based on California data
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What they do
A Payroll Specialist manages the financial and accounting work involved in processing payroll for a company or organization. Manages employee benefits programs and payroll deductions, or assists with evaluating compensation levels for different job categories and titles.
$57,441 / year median in California
-8% projected decline
Job Description
We are looking for an experienced Payroll Specialist to support a contract position based in San Francisco, California. This role will oversee payroll operations for a multi-state employee population, ensuring each cycle is processed accurately, on schedule, and in full compliance with applicable regulations. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical payroll knowledge, sound judgment in resolving complex pay issues, and the ability to collaborate effectively with Finance and employees across the organization.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee complete semi-monthly payroll processing for a multi-state workforce, including standard payroll runs, off-cycle payments, compensation adjustments, deductions, garnishments, and employee record updates.
- Act as the in-house payroll authority and manage administration of the payroll platform, including system setup, tax configurations, reporting, integrations, and troubleshooting.
- Maintain the vendor relationship with the payroll provider by tracking service quality and coordinating prompt resolution of payroll, tax, and system-related issues.
- Direct payroll tax activities across federal, state, and local jurisdictions, including registrations, filings, notices, amendments, quarterly and annual close processes, and year-end tax forms.
- Establish and uphold strong payroll controls, review procedures, documentation standards, and audit support practices to protect accuracy and reduce compliance risk.
- Investigate and resolve complex payroll, tax, timekeeping, and compensation questions while providing clear and thorough communication to employees.
- Partner with Finance on payroll funding, account alignment, reconciliations, accrual tracking, invoice review, workforce cost reporting, audit preparation, and forecasting activities.
- Administer the company's 401(k) plan, including eligibility tracking, enrollments, contribution processing, loans, distributions, corrections, and employee support.
- Stay informed on payroll and tax regulation changes and apply updates to payroll processes and policies as needed.