Certified Payroll

About the role

We are looking for a Certified Payroll specialist to support payroll administration for public works and prevailing wage assignments in California. This long-term contract opportunity is ideal for someone who is highly organized, precise with payroll records, and confident navigating compliance requirements tied to certified payroll and union-related reporting. The person in this role will work closely with internal partners to keep payroll activities accurate, timely, and aligned with reporting obligations.

Responsibilities

• Administer weekly certified payroll processing for employees assigned to public works and prevailing wage jobs.
• Prepare, review, and submit payroll reports and required backup documentation within established deadlines.
• Interpret wage determinations to calculate correct pay rates, fringe amounts, overtime, and deductions.
• Oversee union-related reporting and help resolve outstanding contribution or reporting issues.
• Reconcile payroll records, research variances, and correct discrepancies to maintain accurate data.
• Maintain employee payroll files, job classifications, and labor distribution details with a high level of accuracy.
• Collaborate with project leadership, human resources, and accounting teams to support payroll compliance across active projects.
• Assist with audit requests by gathering payroll records and supplying documentation in a timely manner.
• Monitor reporting calendars to ensure all certified payroll and related submissions are completed on schedule.

Requirements

• At least 3 years of experience handling certified payroll, ideally within construction, public works, or similar project-based environments.
• Strong understanding of prevailing wage rules and payroll compliance standards at the federal, state, and local levels.
• Hands-on experience with union payroll reporting, benefit contributions, and related payroll obligations.
• Proven ability to process full-cycle payroll accurately for a workforce ranging from approximately 101 to 500 employees.
• Knowledge of payroll adjustments such as garnishments, overtime calculations, and required deductions.
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple deadlines effectively.

Skills

• Clear communication skills and sound judgment when researching and resolving payroll issues.
• Experience using payroll and reporting tools such as QuickBooks, Rippling, Gusto, and Microsoft Excel.

Benefits

• Medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance available to contract/temporary professionals.
• Eligibility to enroll in the company 401(k) plan for hired contract/temporary professionals.