ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

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 ...

Ttmtech

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 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 ...

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 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 ...

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

$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

$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 · 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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Aug 23, 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 an entry level payroll job?

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 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 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.

Is entry level payroll hard to get into?

Entry level payroll positions are generally accessible to candidates with basic math, attention to detail, and computer skills. Many employers offer on-the-job training, and relevant certifications like payroll certification can improve job prospects. The role often requires a high school diploma or equivalent and some familiarity with payroll software or spreadsheets.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level payroll?

Entry level payroll positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, basic math skills, and familiarity with payroll software or spreadsheets. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to handle confidential information are also important qualifications.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 47% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $56,236 per year, or $27 per hour.

West Coast Entry Level Payroll Auditor 2026

WithumSmith+Brown

San Ramon, CA • On-site

$53K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Withum is a place where talent thrives - where who you are matters. It's a place of endless opportunities for growth. A place where entrepreneurial energy plus inclusive teamwork equals exponential results.
Explore different industries. Learn new skills. Connect with our diverse teams of professionals to gain insight into the career you envision. Your Career Starts with You.
Experience the Transformative Power of Withum Plus You - that's the Power in the Plus!
Job Description:
We are now accepting applications for Entry Level Payroll Auditor. No CPA or audit experience required. This is a full-time entry level position with a long-term career path. We will provide you with the training necessary for you to be successful.
How You'll Spend Your Time:
  • Audit employer contributions made to trust funds (employee benefit plans) to verify employer compliance with contract requirements
  • Communicate directly with employers to confirm scheduled appointments, coordinate requests for records, and discuss findings
  • Travel to employer locations to conduct audits on site, or remotely, depending on client needs and travel constraints
  • Work independently and under supervision to perform compliance testing, analyze payroll data, and reconcile with trust fund data sets
  • Frequently work with managers and senior staff to resolve audit questions and challenges
  • Prepare payroll audit reports for senior and/or management review
  • Provide management with timely and accurate status reports on current work

As you progress in this position, you will begin to provide training, coaching and guidance to new auditors and learn valuable leadership skills.
Withum provides an extensive orientation program and training for all new employees to help ensure their long-term success, professional development, and career growth. The training program is several weeks. It is conducted in person when possible, and delivered remotely as needed. Our technology-driven approach allows this to be a very much hands-on and collaborative experience.
The Kinds of People We Want to Talk to Reflect Many of the Following:
  • Positive Thinker: an organized self-starter with a strong work ethic and eager to learn
  • Effective Communicator: a professional in both written and verbal communication who can distill complex ideas into concise statements
  • Ethically Responsible: ability to demonstrate resilience under pressure and passion to do the right thing placing personal and Firm integrity above all else
  • Analytical: a resourceful critical thinker who can size up a situation, extract relevant information, and efficiently complete assignments
  • Tech Savvy: proficient in MS Excel (logical formulas & pivot tables), Word, and Adobe Acrobat
  • Flexible: comfortable traveling to employer locations, or performing audits remotely as needed (or hybrid of both)

EDUCATION
Withum requires all Payroll Auditor I team members to have a 4-year college degree. Although auditors typically have a business administration background, many come to us from the social sciences having honed critical thinking and communication skills in these disciplines.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AT WITHUM
We owe our success to the dedication and expertise of our team members who have helped build our robust payroll compliance program. We continually strive to position new staff for success and identify new leaders to keep pace with our growth. In fact, the majority of payroll audit management started their careers as staff auditors.
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
For positions in California and Washington, the compensation for this position ranges from $53,000- $70,000. Final offer amounts are based on multiple factors such as the specific role, hiring location, as well as the individual's skills, experience and qualifications. In addition to the base compensation, Withum offers a competitive benefits package and bonus program (for eligible roles) based on individual and firm performance. For additional information on our benefits, visit our website at https://www.withum.com/careers/.
No sponsorship is available for this position.
This is not a remote job!
WithumSmith+Brown, PC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise qualified applicants on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, age, sex, (including pregnancy), genetic information, marital status, domestic partnership status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, national origin, disability or handicap, veteran status, weight, height, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.

Apply