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Entry Level Payroll Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Altman Specialty Plants

Jr Payroll Specialist

Vista, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Under the direct supervision of the Director of Payroll, perform entry-level payroll tasks with a focus on technical functionalities and administrative responsibilities. Efficiently assist the ...

Clear Choice Staffing, Inc

Be Seen First

Payroll Specialist Part time

Corona, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to join our team! (Not an entry-level position) Responsibilities * Process weekly/bi-weekly payroll for all employees with accuracy ...

Ttmtech

Payroll Specialist

Santa Ana, CA

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Experience: 1-3 years of payroll, accounting, or HR administrative experience (internship or co-op experience considered for entry-level candidates) * Attention to Detail: Demonstrated ability to ...

High Light Electric Inc

Payroll Clerk

Colton, CA

$20 - $30/hr

Interest in payroll, accounting, HR, or compliance-related work (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel is required * Strong attention to detail and ...

TTM Technologies

Payroll Specialist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Experience: 1-3 years of payroll, accounting, or HR administrative experience (internship or co-op experience considered for entry-level candidates) * Attention to Detail: Demonstrated ability to ...

High Light Electric

Payroll Clerk

Colton, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Interest in payroll, accounting, HR, or compliance-related work (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel is required * Strong attention to detail and ...

High Light Electric

Payroll Clerk

Colton, CA · On-site

Interest in payroll, accounting, HR, or compliance-related work (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel is required * Strong attention to detail and ...

High Light Electric Inc

Payroll Clerk

Colton, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Interest in payroll, accounting, HR, or compliance-related work (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel is required * Strong attention to detail and ...

Rowland Unified

SENIOR PAYROLL CLERK

Rowland Heights, CA · On-site

$4.4K - $5.4K/mo

VETERANS CREDIT For entry level classes, veterans with thirty (30) days or more of active service (during a time of war or national emergency) who obtain a passing score shall be allowed an ...

SBT Global, Inc.

Accounting Assistant

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Respond to payroll-related inquiries and resolve issues * Working as an entry-level accountant for payroll-related audit, payroll reports, and other related duties * Assist with annual tax and ...

SBT Global, Inc.

Accounting Assistant

Cerritos, CA

$28/hr

Respond to payroll-related inquiries and resolve issues * Working as an entry-level accountant for payroll-related audit, payroll reports, and other related duties * Assist with annual tax and ...

SBT Global, Inc.

Accounting Assistant

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Respond to payroll-related inquiries and resolve issues * Working as an entry-level accountant for payroll-related audit, payroll reports, and other related duties * Assist with annual tax and ...

SBT Global, Inc.

Accounting Assistant

Cerritos, CA

$25 - $28/hr

Respond to payroll-related inquiries and resolve issues * Working as an entry-level accountant for payroll-related audit, payroll reports, and other related duties * Assist with annual tax and ...

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All JobsPayroll JobsEntry Level Payroll JobsEntry Level Payroll Jobs in California

Entry Level Payroll information

See California salary details

$14

$27

$38

How much do entry level payroll jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level payroll in California is $27.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $30.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Payroll vs Payroll Clerk?

AspectEntry Level PayrollPayroll Clerk
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer basic accounting knowledgeHigh school diploma; familiarity with payroll software often preferred
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often in HR or finance departmentsOffice environment, handling payroll processing and record keeping
Employer & Industry UsageCommon entry point in various industries including retail, healthcare, and corporateTypically employed in similar industries, focusing on payroll processing tasks
Comparison Search IntentUnderstanding entry-level payroll roles and responsibilitiesClarifying duties and qualifications of payroll clerks

Entry Level Payroll positions are designed for individuals starting in payroll, often requiring basic education and some familiarity with payroll processes. Payroll Clerks usually perform similar tasks but may have more specific experience or responsibilities. Both roles serve as foundational positions in payroll administration within various industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Payroll Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Payroll Specialist, you need strong numerical accuracy, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of payroll processes, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in accounting or related field. Familiarity with payroll software like ADP, QuickBooks, or Paychex, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Excel, is typically required. Strong organizational skills, confidentiality, and effective communication set candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure payroll is processed accurately and on time, maintaining compliance and employee trust.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level payroll professionals, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level payroll professionals often encounter challenges such as learning complex payroll software, staying updated with changing tax regulations, and ensuring data accuracy under tight deadlines. To overcome these, it's helpful to proactively seek training on software systems, regularly review compliance updates, and develop strong organizational habits. Collaborating closely with HR and finance teams can also provide valuable support and insights, helping you build confidence and competence in your role.

What are entry level payroll jobs?

Entry level payroll jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the payroll field and typically require minimal prior experience. These roles focus on assisting with the processing of employee pay, maintaining payroll records, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and company policies. Entry level payroll professionals often work under the supervision of more experienced payroll staff, gaining foundational knowledge and skills in payroll systems, data entry, and payroll regulations. These positions are an excellent starting point for those interested in a career in payroll or human resources.
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 Entry Level Payroll jobs in California? For Entry Level Payroll jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Payroll jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Payroll jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Payroll jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Payroll job openings:
Entry Level Payroll jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Payroll job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, and 57% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,236 per year, or $27 per hour.
Jr Payroll Specialist

Jr Payroll Specialist

Altman Specialty Plants

Vista, CA • On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Altman Plants rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 63 rated farming

Job description

Job Title: Jr. Payroll Specialist

Department: Payroll

Reports to: Director of Payroll

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Work Hours: Full-Time, potentially longer working hours during Spring Season.


Summary: Under the direct supervision of the Director of Payroll, perform entry-level payroll tasks with a focus on technical functionalities and administrative responsibilities. Efficiently assist the Payroll Department to help ensure all the Payroll Data and employee inquiries are processed accurately, and in a timely manner. This position will also handle high volume multi-state payroll processing for multiple facilities. To be considered for this position, you must possess exceptional communication skills, strong organizational abilities, and the capability to manage a high-volume workload effectively. Demonstrated experience thriving in a fast-paced environment, maintaining composure under pressure, and meeting deadlines with a positive attitude is essential.


Overall Responsibilities:

  • Tracking the processing of all court ordered wage garnishments submitted to ADP.
  • Review wage garnishment refunds and effectively relay the information to the payroll team.
  • Reconcile all the garnishments processed on a bi-weekly basis.
  • Coordinate with the in-house Notary Public to facilitate the notarization of garnishments, as needed.
  • Review and distribute the mail for the payroll inbox.
  • Maintain employee data in payroll system (ADP) and File Hold (Scanning Software.)
  • Assist with new employees onboarding, separations, W-4 and State withholding changes.
  • Accurately processing of Manual checks during off cycle payroll.
  • Set up Direct Deposits, carefully following the Direct Deposit verification procedure.
  • Input Personnel Action forms for address changes, department changes, compensation and promotion changes.
  • Final Checks processing in accordance with state laws.
  • Accurately process all employment verification requests in a timely manner.
  • Payroll Customer Service - Provide payroll customer service by effectively communicating with managers and employees through virtual and in-person interactions.
  • Address basic employee inquiries regarding direct deposit setup, tax-related matters, and other paycheck deductions.
  • Engage in cross training with the payroll team.
  • Maintains processes, and reconciles a wide variety of payroll documents and materials in compliance with established policies and regulatory guidelines (e.g. timesheets, PA’s direct deposits, etc.)
  • Assists Director of Payroll and payroll team with projects as needed.
  • Other Duties as Assigned.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function as described above.

The qualifications listed below are representative of the skills, and/or ability required for this position.

  • Exceptional organizational skills
  • Effectively communicate with Managers/Supervisors and Peers.
  • Computer literate: Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, Microsoft Outlook.
  • Mathematical skills and 10 Key Proficient
  • Willing to learn new tasks as assigned. Definitely need a “Can do Attitude”
  • Cooperative, enthusiastic, positive attitude, and productive in a work team environment
  • Reliable, responsible, and dependable.
  • Strong work ethic and team player.
  • Ability to work in an office located in a nursery.
  • Good planning and organizational skills to balance and prioritize work.

Education and/or Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred – Ideally in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related field (not required).
  • 1–2 years of payroll experience – Entry‑level role with increasing responsibility in payroll functions.
  • ADP Workforce Now – Experience is helpful but not required.
  • Intermediate Excel – Required
  • Bilingual English/Spanish – Preferred


Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an

employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the

duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or

feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to

stand; walk; climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must

occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.





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