Payroll Specialist/HR Generalist

We are looking for a Payroll Specialist/HR Generalist to support payroll operations and core human resources activities for a dynamic organization in Watsonville, California. This Long-term Contract position is ideal for a detail-oriented individual who can balance accurate payroll administration with employee support, benefits coordination, and compliance-related HR work. The role requires sound judgment, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively across multiple teams while handling sensitive information with care.

Responsibilities:

• Process full-cycle payroll for multiple company entities, ensuring timely and accurate weekly payroll completion for a large employee population.
• Review, correct, and approve timekeeping records, then organize payroll reports and maintain documentation in shared internal systems.
• Prepare recurring and year-end payroll-related reporting, including wage statements, audits, tax documentation, and employee mailings.
• Oversee fleet program administration and provide day-to-day support for related employee processes.
• Assist with benefits administration by coordinating enrollments, employee communications, wellness-related activities, and ongoing program support.
• Handle leave administration in compliance with applicable regulations, while maintaining accurate records and coordinating with employees and management as needed.
• Support employee relations matters by helping address routine workplace concerns with discretion and escalating more complex situations when appropriate.
• Contribute to recruiting and onboarding activities, including job posting support, candidate coordination, offer preparation, and new employee integration.
• Partner with internal teams on retirement plan administration, safety initiatives, company events, social audits, and broader compliance or sustainability efforts.