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Contract Payroll Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

LHH US

Certified Payroll Specialist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$33 - $38/hr

Contract-to-Hire Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:00 AM-4:00 PM or 8:00 AM-5:00 PM We are looking for a detail-driven Certified Payroll Specialist to support construction-related certified payroll ...

LHH US

Certified Payroll Specialist

Pasadena, CA

$33 - $38/hr

Contract-to-Hire Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:00 AM-4:00 PM or 8:00 AM-5:00 PM We are looking for a detail-driven Certified Payroll Specialist to support construction-related certified payroll ...

Robert Half

Payroll Specialist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$38 - $40/hr

An organization in Beverly Hills is hiring a Payroll Coordinator on a contract to hire basis. As the Payroll Coordinator, you will support payroll operations under the direction of the Director of ...

Addison Group

Payroll Specialist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

This role manages payroll activities related to provider compensation, including contract setup, incentive calculations, draws/advances, and final pay processing. The Payroll Analyst will collaborate ...

CoreTechs Inc.

Payroll Processor

Roseville, CA · On-site

$41/hr

Contract: 6 Months * Company will provide all equipment Note: MUST be legally authorized to work in the United States. SUMMARY: * Company is seeking a Payroll Processor II to support payroll ...

Addison Group

Payroll Specialist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

This role manages payroll activities related to provider compensation, including contract setup, incentive calculations, draws/advances, and final pay processing. The Payroll Analyst will collaborate ...

LHH US

Payroll Coordinator

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$23 - $25/hr

Payroll Coordinator | Hybrid Opportunity | Contract-to-Hire Looking for your next opportunity in payroll and HR support? Join a growing organization where you'll play a key role in ensuring payroll ...

Sumeru Solutions

Payroll Administrator

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$27.75 - $37.25/hr

Payroll Administrator San Leandro, CA Contract About the Role As a Payroll Administrator, you'll play a crucial role in ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing. You will manage payroll ...

Pathway Group

Be Seen First

Payroll Specialist

Yorba Linda, CA · On-site

CA$27 - CA$32/hr

Process high-volume payroll (600+) specific to union contracts (Operating Engineers, Laborers, Laborers Solar, Carpenters, Teamsters, Cement Mason/Mill rights, and Ironworkers) possibly across ...

New

Kforce Inc.

Payroll Manager

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

Our client is seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to lead payroll operations for a growing ... Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave. Note: Pay is ...

Robert Half

Payroll Specialist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $27.50/hr

This contract to permanent opportunity, is ideal for a detail-oriented detail oriented who can manage payroll operations accurately while assisting employees with benefits administration and related ...

Robert Half

Payroll Specialist

Concord, CA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

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 ...

Robert Half

Payroll Administrator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19.79 - $22.91/hr

This Contract opportunity is ideal for someone who brings strong experience managing end-to-end payroll with accuracy, consistency, and attention to compliance. The position will focus on processing ...

Robert Half

Payroll Specialist

Ceres, CA · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

We are looking for an experienced Payroll Specialist to join a team in California in a contract capacity with the potential to become permanent. This onsite role supports permanent hours Monday ...

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Contract Payroll information

What is contract payroll?

Contract payroll refers to the process of managing and processing payroll for employees who are hired on a contract basis rather than as permanent staff. This involves handling payments, withholding taxes, and ensuring compliance with labor laws specific to contract workers. Contract payroll can be managed internally by a company or outsourced to specialized payroll service providers. It helps businesses remain flexible with staffing while ensuring contractors are paid correctly and on time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract payroll specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Payroll Specialist, you need a solid understanding of payroll processes, tax regulations, and relevant labor laws, often backed by experience in finance or accounting and sometimes a payroll certification like CPP. Familiarity with payroll software systems such as ADP, Paychex, or QuickBooks is typically required to efficiently manage payroll tasks. Excellent attention to detail, discretion, and strong communication skills help ensure accuracy and maintain confidentiality while collaborating with employees and management. These skills are crucial for ensuring timely and compliant payroll processing, which supports employee satisfaction and organizational integrity.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in contract payroll roles, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in contract payroll roles often encounter challenges such as managing multiple client accounts with varying pay schedules, staying up-to-date with frequent changes in tax regulations, and ensuring strict compliance with labor laws. Effective organization, attention to detail, and consistent communication with clients are crucial for success. Utilizing updated payroll software and attending regular compliance training can also help mitigate errors and streamline processes.

What is the difference between Contract Payroll vs Contract Accountant?

AspectContract PayrollContract Accountant
Required CredentialsBasic payroll processing knowledge, sometimes certifications like ADP or PaychexAccounting degree, CPA or similar certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentPayroll departments, HR teams, or outsourced payroll firmsAccounting firms, finance departments, or freelance accounting roles
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries for payroll managementUsed in finance, accounting, and auditing sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding payroll-specific roles and contractsComparing accounting roles and contract work

Contract Payroll roles focus on processing employee wages, tax deductions, and compliance, often requiring payroll-specific certifications. Contract Accountant positions involve broader accounting responsibilities, financial analysis, and often require accounting degrees and certifications. While both are contract-based finance roles, Contract Payroll is specialized in payroll management, whereas Contract Accountants handle comprehensive accounting tasks.

Do contract payroll jobs pay higher?

Contract payroll jobs typically offer higher hourly wages compared to permanent positions to compensate for the lack of benefits and job security. However, overall compensation may vary based on industry, experience, and the specific employer, and contract roles often require specialized payroll or accounting skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in California?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Payroll jobs in California?

For Contract Payroll jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Payroll jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Payroll jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Contract Payroll jobs?

Cities in California with the most Contract Payroll job openings:

Contract Payroll jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Payroll job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Certified Payroll Specialist

LHH US

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$33 - $38/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Certified Payroll Specialist
Location: Pasadena, CA
Pay Rate: $33-38/hour, based on experience
Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire
Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:00 AM-4:00 PM or 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
We are looking for a detail-driven Certified Payroll Specialist to support construction-related certified payroll operations. This role plays a key part in ensuring payroll accuracy, compliance, and timely reporting while partnering with internal teams, contractors, and subcontractors.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Process weekly certified payroll for employees, including uploads, validations, and report distribution
  • Review and process subcontractor certified payroll submissions for compliance and completeness
  • Maintain organized certified payroll records and project documentation
  • Serve as a primary contact for certified payroll inquiries from prime contractors and subcontractors
  • Monitor and manage incoming emails related to contracts, payroll reporting, and project details
  • Track and update project information using Excel spreadsheets
  • Assist with certified payroll project start-up documentation and onboarding
  • Support preparation of union reports, status letters, and compliance-related documentation
  • Provide backup assistance for certified payroll reporting and distribution as needed
  • Perform general administrative tasks such as filing, copying, and record management
  • Complete additional duties as assigned by the Certified Payroll Manager
Qualifications & Experience
  • Minimum of 2+ years of union payroll experience (construction payroll experience preferred)
  • Prior certified payroll experience strongly preferred but not required
  • At least 2 years of high-volume data entry experience with a strong emphasis on accuracy
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and working knowledge of Microsoft Word
  • Strong 10-key skills with demonstrated accuracy
  • Proven customer service skills with professional and courteous communication
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities with overlapping deadlines
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Strong ability to learn new systems and adapt quickly
  • Willingness to work overtime or weekends as business needs require
Preferred Systems Experience
  • Familiarity with LCP Tracker and DIR reporting
Pay Details: $33.00 to $38.00 per hour
Search managed by: Allison Lau
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.lhh.com/us/en/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
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About LHH

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

LHH Recruitment Solutions is a division of the Adecco Group, the world's leading HR Solutions provider and the 7th best workplace in the world. We are an industry leader in temporary and permanent recruitment within accounting and finance. We work with premier clients, from small businesses to Global Fortune 500 companies, and we know that every opening is more than a job, and that every candidate is more than a resume. We work closely with candidates to understand their needs and apply our industry expertise to make matches for clients that drive business results. Our ability to dynamically balance your needs with the right Solutions gives clients and candidates the right fit to succeed. We are an evolving organization and take pride in a culture of trust, where we celebrate diversity, equality and inclusion. We always put our people first, drive a growth mindset and foster a collective spirit. We understand that talent and potential come from every section of society, regardless of gender, race, age, or physical ability. At the Adecco Group, we are committed to making the future work for everyone!

Industry

Human resource programs administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Jacksonville, FL, US

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