Senior Payroll Specialist (Direct Hire)

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Senior Payroll Specialist to join our Accounting team in a lead capacity. This role is responsible for ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll, maintaining compliance with federal and California labor regulations, and overseeing timekeeping practices in collaboration with Human Resources and Legal teams.

The ideal candidate will bring extensive payroll experience, a strong understanding of California wage and hour laws, and the ability to manage payroll operations for a large hourly workforce.

Work Environment

• On-site position
• Collaborative accounting and operations environment
• Opportunity to take a lead role in payroll compliance and process improvemen
• Irvine, California
• Direct Hire

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary starting at $75,000+ annually (DOE)
• Company-sponsored medical and dental insurance
• Subsidized dependent coverage
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid sick leave
• Paid holidays

Key Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly payroll accurately and on time in compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Reconcile and validate payroll data prior to disbursement.
• Audit employee timecards for accuracy, completeness, and policy compliance each pay cycle.
• Monitor meal period compliance and identify patterns of missed or inconsistent time entries.
• Review GPS punch data to verify employee clock-ins and clock-outs at approved locations and resolve discrepancies.
• Administer payroll deductions, including garnishments, tax levies, benefits, retirement contributions, and leave-of-absence adjustments.
• Partner with Human Resources regarding new hires, terminations, compensation changes, and benefits administration.
• Support month-end close activities, including preparation of payroll-related journal entries.
• Conduct regular payroll audits, investigate discrepancies, and implement corrective actions.
• Train managers and employees on timekeeping procedures and compliance requirements.
• Stay informed of changes to California labor laws and payroll regulations.

Qualifications

Required:

• 6+ years of payroll processing experience, including lead or supervisory responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of California wage and hour laws, including timecard management and meal/rest break compliance.
• Experience processing payroll for 100+ hourly employees.
• Proficiency with payroll systems such as ADP, Paylocity, Vensure, or similar platforms.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• High level of discretion and ability to manage confidential information.

Preferred:

• Experience with GPS-based or field workforce timekeeping systems.
• Multi-state payroll processing experience.