The Payroll Specialist supports the Payroll Manager and works closely with cross-functional partners to enhance payroll operations. This role provides oversight and operational support to ensure payroll processes are accurate, efficient, and compliant with internal controls, tax regulations, and applicable labor laws.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Human Resources and Finance to support payroll operations, including payroll processing, stock-based compensation, taxation, and benefits.
• Manage payroll workflows to ensure timely, accurate, and efficient payroll processing.
• Support accurate and timely payroll processing in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Review and verify employee time and attendance data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with wage and hour laws.
• Review payroll processing and accounting systems to ensure accurate handling of salaries, benefits, garnishments, taxes, and other deductions.
• Support multi-state payroll compensation and tax compliance.
• Perform audits of W-2s, payroll balance sheets, year-to-date earnings, and related payroll records.
• Conduct regular payroll audits, investigations, and root-cause analysis to identify issues, close process gaps, and support preventative measures. Maintain working knowledge of audit preparation and payroll audit best practices.
• Ensure accurate and timely payroll updates related to new hires, terminations, and changes in compensation.
• Maintain proper documentation of payroll procedures and ensure SOX compliance.
• Apply a thorough understanding of U.S. GAAP and appropriate accounting treatment for payroll and benefit accruals.
• Provide high-quality service to internal and external stakeholders through accurate work and effective communication.

Factors for Success

• 5+ years of experience in payroll operations.
• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Subject matter expertise in payroll processing and regulatory compliance.
• Experience with ADP payroll platforms REQUIRED and NetSuite general ledger systems PREFERRED.
• Proven ability to lead or contribute to cross-functional payroll projects and provide guidance on payroll impacts.
• Strong data management skills, including processing large datasets and importing/exporting payroll data; working knowledge of Microsoft Excel required.
• Ability to develop and maintain repeatable monthly and quarterly payroll processes with minimal rework.
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on accuracy and timeliness.
• Extensive knowledge of California and multi-state payroll principles, practices, and regulations.
• In-depth understanding of federal and state payroll and tax regulations, including garnishments, child support, levies, subpoenas, and similar requirements.
• Customer-service mindset with the ability to resolve employee inquiries promptly and professionally.
• Willingness to partner closely with cross-functional teams, including HR and equity or SEC reporting groups, on payroll-related matters.
• Strong decision-making skills, using structured analysis to balance complex priorities and long-term impacts.
• Proven collaboration and team-building abilities, fostering alignment, knowledge sharing, and effective outcomes.
• Outcome-driven approach, with the ability to manage risks, dependencies, and cross-functional accountability to achieve results.