Payroll Specialist

We are looking for a Payroll Specialist to support payroll operations for a growing organization in California. This contract opportunity with potential for a permanent position is ideal for someone who brings strong payroll experience, thrives in a deadline-driven environment, and can manage certified payroll requirements with a high degree of accuracy. The role will focus on end-to-end payroll administration, employee record updates, compliance reporting, and coordination of weekly payroll activities across multiple systems. Responsibilities: • Administer regular payroll cycles with accuracy and timeliness, ensuring employees are paid correctly and according to established schedules. • Maintain payroll records by entering, reviewing, and updating employee information while adhering to applicable wage and tax regulations. • Handle workforce status changes such as onboarding, separations, compensation updates, and role changes within payroll systems. • Prepare and submit weekly certified payroll information through designated reporting platforms and customer compliance portals. • Organize and complete required compliance documentation for newly awarded jobs and ongoing project work. • Generate, review, and distribute weekly certified payroll reports to support internal and external reporting needs. • Process manual payments, missed-time corrections, and off-cycle payroll transactions when adjustments are required. • Support payroll activities in Penta and related systems, helping ensure consistent reporting and accurate data flow across platforms. • 2 to 4 years of hands-on payroll processing experience in a high-volume environment. • Demonstrated experience preparing and managing certified payroll reports. • Working knowledge of construction payroll practices, including union-related considerations and certified payroll obligations. • Familiarity with Penta software or the ability to become proficient quickly in similar payroll platforms. • Understanding of foundational accounting concepts as they relate to payroll processing and reconciliation. • Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel for reporting, documentation, and data review. • Strong written and verbal communication skills with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively while handling sensitive payroll information with discretion. 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.