Payroll Specialist

Description

Know payroll beyond the software? This role is for you.

A North County professional services organization is looking for a Payroll Specialist who combines technical payroll knowledge with strong client and employee support skills. This opportunity is ideal for someone who enjoys understanding how payroll information flows through a system, identifying discrepancies, and helping people resolve issues before they become larger problems. You'll partner with clients or internal departments to collect payroll information, validate employee data, process payroll accurately, and answer questions throughout the payroll cycle. The position also offers exposure to system workflows, account setup, reporting, and process improvements.

The team is looking for someone who can work independently, communicate clearly, and take ownership of payroll from initial data review through final reconciliation.

Your day-to-day responsibilities:

• Collect and review payroll information for accuracy and completeness.

• Process payroll according to established schedules and service deadlines.

• Validate employee hours, pay rates, deductions, tax information, and direct deposit details.

• Investigate payroll calculation issues and resolve discrepancies.

• Communicate with clients, employees, or department contacts regarding missing information and payroll questions.

• Assist with onboarding new payroll accounts or employee groups.

• Maintain payroll calendars, processing checklists, and supporting documentation.

• Prepare payroll registers, reconciliation reports, and other recurring reporting.

• Review payroll changes and ensure appropriate approvals are documented.

• Assist with quarter-end and year-end payroll processes.

• Support payroll system updates, testing, and process improvements.

• Identify recurring issues and recommend practical solutions that improve accuracy and turnaround time.

Requirements

• 2+ years of hands-on payroll experience.

• Experience processing biweekly payroll from data collection through completion.

• Strong understanding of payroll calculations, deductions, and common payroll discrepancies.

• Excellent customer service and written communication skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and payroll software.

• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and maintain accurate records.

• Experience with payroll implementation, client services, or system troubleshooting is a plus.

• Familiarity with California payroll requirements preferred.

Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.

All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.

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