Payroll and HR Specialist

The Position

The Payroll & HR Specialist supports the Human Resources Operations team in delivering seamless and efficient HR services across payroll, benefits, terminations, compliance, and employee relations. In partnership with the Senior HR Manager, this role ensures accurate payroll processing, benefits administration—including open enrollment—and compliant offboarding procedures. This position serves as a key resource for interpreting HR policies, enhancing operational effectiveness, and fostering a positive employee experience. With both strategic and administrative responsibilities, the Payroll & HR Specialist manages sensitive personnel matters and contributes to initiatives in onboarding, retention, training, workers’ compensation, and leave management. Reporting to the Senior HR Manager, this role is essential in maintaining compliance, driving process improvements, and supporting a culture of transparency and engagement.

Sample Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead Payroll Processing
  • Manage semi-monthly payroll, including timesheet review, discrepancy resolution, and coordination with staff and supervisors.
  • Ensure compliance with IRS, ACA, and state regulations.
• Maintain HRIS and Personnel Records
  • Update HRIS and timekeeping systems with employee changes.
  • Ensure accurate and compliant recordkeeping, including Form I-9 and orientation documents.
• Manage Onboarding and Offboarding
  • Facilitate termination processes, including exit interviews, and final paychecks.
  • Clock logistics with Operations.
• Collaborate Across Departments
  • Work with finance and operations teams to support HR-related operational needs.
  • Travel to county-wide office locations as required.
• Promote Employee Engagement
  • Participate in morale-building initiatives through the CARES Committee.
  • Organize internal trainings and workshops.
• Ensure Policy Compliance
  • Maintain updated HR policies and manuals.
  • Support staff understanding of employment laws and agency procedures.
• Professional Development
  • Stay current with payroll best practices by attending relevant trainings and workshops.
• Other Duties as Assigned
  • Provide additional HR support as needed to meet departmental and agency goals.

Employment Qualifications and Standards

• Must have working knowledge of trauma-informed care.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Human Resources, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ of payroll experience, preferably within a California-based organization; Excellent working knowledge of California labor laws and payroll regulations required.
• 2+ years of direct HR experience, including exposure to benefits, terminations, and compliance.
• Proficiency in HRIS and payroll systems (e.g., Paylocity, NOVAtime, Paycom, UKG) and Microsoft applications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including editing and proofreading.
• Professional certifications such as CPP, FPC, or PHR are highly desirable.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage confidential information with discretion.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment with professionalism and sound judgment.
• Experience working with quantitative data is preferred.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish highly desirable.
• Requires valid California driver’s license, insurance, and reliable transportation for occasional county-wide travel.

Classification, Hours and Pay Rate

This position is full-time, non-exempt and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including 90-100% employer-paid medical (HMO/PPO), dental, vision, HSA/FSA, and generous PTO/vacation. Additionally, you'll receive generous holiday pay and a 403(b) retirement plan. The hourly compensation for this position ranges from $25-$30 / hour dependent on education and experience. This position may be eligible for $1 pay differential in accordance with bilingual competency.