Payroll Specialist

The Ceres Commitment

Ceres Global is a network of companies delivering integrated solutions in infrastructure, power, environmental services, and community resilience. Founded in 1976, Ceres has grown to a global enterprise with nine offices across the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, India, and New Zealand. With $2 billion in bonded project capacity and nearly 50 years of experience, Ceres Global serves clients worldwide through specialized units in disaster recovery, electrical infrastructure, power generation, heavy civil construction, environmental restoration, and materials recovery. These units operate as one cohesive force, combining local insight, shared resources, and global expertise to create lasting impact.

Job Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized US Payroll Specialist to join our HR/Finance team. The Payroll Specialist will be responsible for ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll for all employees in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

Responsibilities

• Process weekly payroll for all employees, ensuring accurate calculation of wages, deductions, and benefits.
• Tax Compliance: Validate and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations, including withholding taxes, garnishments, and other deductions.
• Time and Attendance: Review and validate employee timecards and attendance records to ensure data accuracy prior to payroll submission.
• Reporting: Prepare and submit payroll-related reports, including tax filings and year-end reporting.
• Benefit Deductions: Administer employee benefits (health, retirement, etc.) and ensure proper contributions are reflected in payroll.
• Employee Inquiries: Respond to employee inquiries regarding payroll, deductions, benefits, and tax-related questions in a timely and professional manner.
• System Maintenance: Maintain and update payroll software to ensure data accuracy within the system.
• Audits and Reconciliation: Perform payroll reconciliations and assist with internal/external audits related to payroll.
• Confidentiality: Protect sensitive employee payroll information and uphold all data privacy and security requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Education: H.S. Diploma
• Experience: 3+ years’ experience processing payroll to include US (must have California) and Puerto Rico, in mid-to-large-sized organization, to include Union and Non-Union.
• Proficiency using payroll software (Paycom, ADP, Vista or similar construction ERP).
• Knowledge: Strong knowledge of US federal, state, and local payroll tax laws, wage and hour laws, and benefit administration.
• Exceptional Customer Service: Ability to serve employees in a professional and timely manner, under strict deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• AA or BS degree in Accounting, HR or related field.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Problem-solving abilities and discretion when handling sensitive information.

Why Join Ceres?

At Ceres, you won’t just have a job, you’ll have a mission. Your work will directly impact the speed and strength of community recovery after disasters. We Offer A collaborative, mission-driven culture. Opportunities for professional growth and advancement. The chance to make a lasting difference for communities.

Ceres Environmental Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. Work Authorization Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Ceres does not sponsor employment-based visas for this position unless stated otherwise. E-Verify: We comply with Federal law by verifying employment eligibility.