Senior Payroll Specialist (Finance)

TL;DR

Senior Payroll Specialist (Finance): Managing accurate and compliant payroll delivery for diverse clients with an accent on multi-state processing, auditing, and reconciliation. Focus on resolving complex payroll discrepancies, ensuring adherence to federal and state regulations, and maintaining high data integrity within HCM platforms.

Location: Hybrid in San Diego, CA

Salary: $70,000–$85,000

Company

An HR Managed Services company providing people operations, payroll, and compliance support to various organizations.

What you will do

• Process and review complex multi-state, off-cycle, and adjusted payrolls for clients.
• Research and resolve high-complexity payroll discrepancies and perform root-cause analysis.
• Assist with payroll audits, register reviews, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Manage quarterly and year-end activities, including W-2s, 1099s, and amended filings.
• Maintain accurate system data for earnings, deductions, and tax configurations within HRIS platforms.
• Collaborate with Payroll Client Managers and internal HCM teams to ensure consistent service delivery.

Requirements

• Must be based in or able to work hybrid in San Diego, CA
• 3–6 years of experience in payroll processing or administration.
• Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and multi-state payroll requirements.
• Proficiency with HCM/HRIS platforms and Microsoft Excel.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field (preferred).
• High attention to detail and strong analytical problem-solving skills.

Nice to have

• Payroll certifications such as FPC or CPP.

Culture & Benefits

• Flexible full-time hybrid work schedule.
• Comprehensive benefits package and robust paid time off.
• Paid SHRM membership.
• Access to extensive resources, tools, and technology for professional success.