Accounting Operations Assistant Jobs in California

$110,000 – $122,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications, plus performance bonus opportunity.

At Ventura Coastal, we know that operational excellence starts with accuracy, integrity, and great people. We're looking for an experienced Accounting Operations Manager to lead our payroll operations while supporting key accounting functions across our growing manufacturing organization.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving complex payroll challenges, and has a passion for building efficient, compliant processes. You'll oversee payroll for both union and non-union employees, partner closely with Finance and Human Resources, and play an important role in strengthening our accounting operations.

• Process bi-weekly payroll for approximately 400 union and non-union employees across multiple locations.
• Ensure accurate processing of regular wages, overtime, bonuses, shift differentials, retroactive pay, and final pay.
• Review payroll data for accuracy and compliance with federal, state, local, and collective bargaining agreement requirements prior to final processing.
• Maintain payroll records, resolve payroll discrepancies, and respond to employee payroll inquiries in a timely manner.
• Coordinate with Human Resources, Benefits, and Finance to ensure accurate employee data, deductions, and payroll transactions.
• Support payroll audits and prepare payroll-related reports as needed.

• Interpret and administer payroll provisions within collective bargaining agreements.
• Ensure accurate processing of union wage scales, premiums, benefit contributions, and deductions.
• Partner with Human Resources and Operations to administer union payroll requirements.

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including California wage and hour laws.
• Maintain compliance with FLSA, payroll tax regulations, and other applicable laws.
• Support payroll tax reporting, audits, reconciliations, and documentation.
• Develop and maintain strong payroll procedures and internal controls.

• Assist with month-end and year-end close activities.
• Prepare journal entries, account reconciliations, and payroll-related general ledger analysis.
• Support financial reporting and labor cost analysis.
• Provide backup support for Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, General Ledger, and other accounting functions.
• Participate in system implementations and continuous process improvement initiatives.

• Prepare payroll and labor reports for leadership.
• Analyze payroll trends, labor costs, and overtime.
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries and resolve discrepancies.
• Train managers on payroll and timekeeping practices.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of progressive payroll management experience.
• 3+ years processing payroll for both union and non-union workforces.
• 3+ years of hands-on Paycom payroll administration experience.
• Strong knowledge of California wage and hour laws, payroll tax regulations, and payroll compliance.
• Experience interpreting collective bargaining agreements.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation.
• Multi-state payroll experience.
• Manufacturing, food processing, agriculture, or industrial industry experience.
• Experience supporting payroll audits and labor cost reporting.

At Ventura Coastal, you'll join a collaborative team where your expertise directly impacts our employees and business operations. We value continuous improvement, teamwork, and developing solutions that help our organization succeed.

• Competitive salary of $110,000–$122,000, depending on experience.
• Performance bonus opportunity.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and company holidays.
• Opportunity to work alongside Finance, HR, and Operations leadership.
• A collaborative, values-driven culture focused on continuous improvement and employee development.

Location: Tipton or Visalia, California 

If you're a payroll and accounting professional who enjoys combining technical expertise with operational leadership, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us build accuracy, compliance, and operational excellence at Ventura Coastal.

Compensation Disclosure: The anticipated annual base salary range for this position is $110,000 to $122,000. Actual compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, and internal equity. This position is also eligible for an annual performance-based bonus.