Payroll

We are looking for a detail-oriented payroll specialist to support accurate and timely payroll operations for a workforce in California. This role is well suited for someone who combines strong payroll knowledge with benefits administration experience and a careful approach to compliance, confidentiality, and employee support. The ideal candidate brings a solid understanding of California payroll practices and can manage payroll activities while helping maintain benefit programs and related records. Responsibilities: • Process end-to-end payroll for employees with a strong focus on accuracy, timeliness, and proper documentation. • Review payroll data for earnings, deductions, taxes, and garnishments to ensure compliance with California regulations and internal controls. • Administer employee benefit programs, including enrollments, qualifying life event updates, and annual open enrollment activities. • Maintain payroll and benefits records while safeguarding sensitive employee information and resolving discrepancies promptly. • Support union payroll administration by applying relevant pay rules, deductions, and reporting requirements correctly. • Prepare payroll-related year-end activities, including W-2 coordination, reconciliations, and audit-ready documentation. • Respond to employee questions related to pay, deductions, leave changes, and benefit coverage in a timely and courteous manner. • Use spreadsheets and reporting tools to analyze payroll information, validate entries, and improve day-to-day accuracy. • Partner with accounting, HR, and other internal stakeholders to ensure payroll and benefits processes run smoothly. • At least 5 years of experience in payroll, benefits, accounting, human resources, or a closely related function. • Hands-on experience managing full-cycle payroll for an employee population ranging from approximately 101 to 500 employees. • Working knowledge of union payroll practices and the ability to apply related rules accurately. • Strong understanding of California payroll compliance, including garnishments, tax withholdings, year-end reporting, and payroll controls. • Experience administering employee benefits, open enrollment, and updates related to leaves or life events. • Advanced proficiency in Excel and confidence working with payroll data, reconciliations, and reports. • High level of accuracy, sound judgment with confidential information, and strong organizational skills. • Spanish language skills are 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 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. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s Terms of Use and Privacy Notice.