Payroll Specialist
<p>Robert Half is a recognized leader in staffing and recruiting for finance and accounting roles. We are currently working with a client in San Diego, CA, to fill a Payroll Specialist position. If you’re detail-oriented, tech-savvy, and passionate about processing payroll accurately and efficiently, this role provides an excellent opportunity to join a dynamic organization with a supportive team.</p><p><br></p><p>The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing employee payroll, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws, and managing employee data in the payroll system. You will play a critical role in ensuring employees are paid correctly and on time while maintaining confidentiality and attention to detail in all payroll-related functions.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Key Responsibilities:</strong></p><ul><li>Prepare and process biweekly, semi-monthly, or monthly payroll accurately and on time.</li><li>Manage all employee payroll data (e.g., hours worked, pay rates, deductions, taxes, etc.) within payroll systems.</li><li>Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws regarding compensation, deductions, and reporting.</li><li>Reconcile payroll reports, resolve discrepancies, and troubleshoot errors before payrolls are finalized.</li><li>Process and maintain records for voluntary deductions including health benefits, 401(k), garnishments, etc.</li><li>Respond to employee inquiries regarding payroll, taxes, and direct deposit setup with professionalism.</li><li>Manage year-end payroll tasks, including W-2 distribution and payroll tax filings.</li><li>Collaborate with Human Resources and accounting teams to ensure accuracy of employee data and reporting.</li></ul><p><br></p>
<ul><li><strong>Education:</strong> High school diploma required; associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, or a related field preferred.</li><li><strong>Experience:</strong> Minimum of 2 years of payroll experience; exposure to multi-state payroll is strongly preferred.</li><li><strong>Technical Knowledge:</strong> Proficiency in payroll software such as ADP, Paycom, Workday, or similar tools. Strong Excel skills (e.g., vLOOKUP, pivot tables) are a plus.</li><li><strong>Detail-Oriented:</strong> Accuracy in processing payroll and adhering to deadlines is critical.</li><li><strong>Communication Skills:</strong> Strong verbal and written communication skills to liaise effectively with employees and management.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Preferred Skills:</strong></p><ul><li>Knowledge of federal and state payroll tax regulations (e.g., FLSA, FMLA, etc.).</li><li>Experience with processing payroll for over 100 employees or in a high-volume environment.</li><li>Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation is an advantage but not required.</li></ul><p><br></p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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. <a href="https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app" target="_blank">Download the Robert Half app</a> and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.</p>
<p>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 <a href="https://roberthalf.gobenefits.net/" target="_blank">roberthalf.gobenefits.net</a> for more information.</p>
<p>© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to <a href="https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms">Robert Half’s Terms of Use</a>.</p>
- San Diego, CA
- onsite
- Temporary
-
28.00 - 32.00 USD / Hourly
- <p>Robert Half is a recognized leader in staffing and recruiting for finance and accounting roles. We are currently working with a client in San Diego, CA, to fill a Payroll Specialist position. If you’re detail-oriented, tech-savvy, and passionate about processing payroll accurately and efficiently, this role provides an excellent opportunity to join a dynamic organization with a supportive team.</p><p><br></p><p>The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing employee payroll, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws, and managing employee data in the payroll system. You will play a critical role in ensuring employees are paid correctly and on time while maintaining confidentiality and attention to detail in all payroll-related functions.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Key Responsibilities:</strong></p><ul><li>Prepare and process biweekly, semi-monthly, or monthly payroll accurately and on time.</li><li>Manage all employee payroll data (e.g., hours worked, pay rates, deductions, taxes, etc.) within payroll systems.</li><li>Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws regarding compensation, deductions, and reporting.</li><li>Reconcile payroll reports, resolve discrepancies, and troubleshoot errors before payrolls are finalized.</li><li>Process and maintain records for voluntary deductions including health benefits, 401(k), garnishments, etc.</li><li>Respond to employee inquiries regarding payroll, taxes, and direct deposit setup with professionalism.</li><li>Manage year-end payroll tasks, including W-2 distribution and payroll tax filings.</li><li>Collaborate with Human Resources and accounting teams to ensure accuracy of employee data and reporting.</li></ul><p><br></p>
- 2025-09-26T17:53:57Z