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Payroll Administrator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Century Group

CGP: Sr.Payroll Admin

Orange, CA · On-site

$35 - $38/hr

Senior Payroll Administrator Century Group is partnering with a client that is seeking a Senior Payroll Administrator to assist their team. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience ...

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Holliday Rock

Payroll & AB219 Administrator

Upland, CA · On-site

$25.25 - $34/hr

Description The Payroll Administrator & AB219 Administrator is responsible for processing and maintaining accurate payroll records while ensuring compliance with California prevailing wage (AB219 ...

Tom Bell Chevrolet

Payroll Admin

Redlands, CA

$24.75 - $33.25/hr

Compile payroll data such as hours worked; sales volume, bonuses, and commissions; monies to be withheld for taxes; employee contributions to insurance and retirement plans; etc., from time sheets ...

Tom Bell Chevrolet

Payroll Admin

Redlands, CA · On-site

$24.75 - $33.25/hr

Compile payroll data such as hours worked; sales volume, bonuses, and commissions; monies to be withheld for taxes; employee contributions to insurance and retirement plans; etc., from time sheets ...

Tom Bell Chevrolet

Payroll Admin

Redlands, CA · On-site

$24.75 - $33.25/hr

Compile payroll data such as hours worked; sales volume, bonuses, and commissions; monies to be withheld for taxes; employee contributions to insurance and retirement plans; etc., from time sheets ...

Sunmar Management Services

Payroll Manager

Riverside, CA · On-site

$23/hr

The primary purpose of your job position is to administer and perform payroll functions to the facility in accordance with current acceptable accounting and cost reimbursement principles relating to ...

Sun Mar Health Care

Payroll Manager

Riverside, CA · On-site

The primary purpose of your job position is to administer and perform payroll functions to the facility in accordance with current acceptable accounting and cost reimbursement principles relating to ...

Sun Mar Health Care

Payroll Manager

Riverside, CA · On-site

$23/hr

The primary purpose of your job position is to administer and perform payroll functions to the facility in accordance with current acceptable accounting and cost reimbursement principles relating to ...

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All JobsPayroll Administrator JobsPayroll Administrator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Payroll Administrator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$15

$29

$40

How much do payroll administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll administrator in Riverside, CA is $29.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.57 and $33.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a payroll administrator?

A payroll administrator works in the Human Resources department of a business and oversees the accounting practices for the company payroll. As a payroll administrator, your responsibilities include managing the payroll account for each employee, verifying hours worked and pay rates, and issuing paychecks. You also keep payroll records up to date for your employer and may be responsible for reporting potential time fraud. Your job is to be well organized and methodical with your accounting practices and help employees with any payroll related concerns and questions they might have.

What does a payroll administrator do?

A Payroll Administrator is responsible for managing the payroll process within an organization. This includes ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time, calculating wages and deductions, maintaining payroll records, and complying with tax laws and regulations. They also handle questions from employees about pay, benefits, and deductions, and may collaborate with HR and finance departments to ensure payroll accuracy. Attention to detail and confidentiality are essential in this role.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Administrator, you need strong attention to detail, numerical proficiency, and a solid understanding of payroll laws and regulations, typically supported by a degree in accounting or related field. Familiarity with payroll software such as ADP, QuickBooks, or SAP, as well as relevant certifications like the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP), is highly beneficial. Excellent organizational skills, discretion, and effective communication are critical soft skills for managing sensitive information and collaborating with staff. These abilities ensure accurate, timely payroll processing and compliance with legal requirements, reducing errors and maintaining employee trust.

What are some common challenges payroll administrators face when managing payroll for a large organization?

Payroll Administrators in large organizations often navigate complex challenges such as ensuring compliance with diverse tax regulations, managing varying pay schedules, and handling high volumes of employee data accurately. They must stay updated on legislative changes affecting payroll and maintain meticulous attention to detail to avoid costly errors. Effective communication and collaboration with HR, accounting, and IT departments are crucial to resolve discrepancies, implement system updates, and ensure timely, accurate payroll processing.

What is the difference between Payroll Administrator vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll AdministratorPayroll Specialist
CertificationsTypically requires payroll or accounting certificationsOften holds payroll certifications like CPP or FPC
Work EnvironmentHandles payroll processing, compliance, and record-keepingFocuses on payroll processing, audits, and data accuracy
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in HR and finance departments across industriesUsed in payroll service providers and large organizations
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to understand roles and responsibilitiesOften compared for expertise and specialization in payroll tasks

While both roles involve payroll processing, a Payroll Administrator manages broader payroll functions, compliance, and record-keeping, often overseeing payroll systems. A Payroll Specialist typically focuses on detailed payroll processing, audits, and ensuring data accuracy. Both roles require similar certifications and are integral to payroll operations, but their scope and focus differ slightly.

Is payroll administration a good career?

Payroll administration is a stable career that involves processing employee compensation, managing tax compliance, and using payroll software. It requires attention to detail, knowledge of labor laws, and often benefits from certifications such as the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP). The role offers opportunities for advancement in finance and human resources departments.
More about Payroll Administrator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll Administrator jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Payroll Administrator jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Payroll Administrator jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Payroll Administrator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Payroll Administrator jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Payroll Administrator jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Payroll Administrator job openings:

Payroll Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Administrator job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 9% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,479 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Payroll Administrator

Santa Margarita Water District

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA • On-site

$94K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Description Join our team as a Payroll Administrator. Santa Margarita Water District is seeking a detail-oriented and customer-focused Payroll Administrator to support the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of payroll for all District employees. This role ensures employees are paid correctly, supports payroll tax reporting, coordinates benefit-related calculations, and partners closely with both Finance and Human Resources as the District continues to improve and modernize payroll operations.

The position may transition into the Human Resources team in the future as payroll functions evolve. If you are someone who thrives on precision, collaboration, and being at the center of meaningful organizational improvements, this is your chance to make a lasting impact. About the Role The Payroll Administrator handles end-to-end payroll processing in a unionized public sector environment and maintains a high standard of accuracy, confidentiality, and service.

The position works with minimal supervision and applies strong analytical skills to ensure compliance with federal, state, labor agreement, and CalPERS requirements. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys improving processes, collaborating across departments, and supporting a positive employee experience. Meet Santa Margarita Water District Santa Margarita Water District is a dynamic, forward-thinking agency dedicated to delivering high-quality potable water, recycled water, and wastewater services to its 200,000 customers across Southern Orange County.

As one of the region's largest and most impactful utilities, we are committed to the highest standards of transparency, innovation, and environmental stewardship. Our people drive our progress, innovation, and results. Our collaborative, human-first culture fosters the sense of fun, comradery, and a rewarding sense of purpose as we do work that matters.

Dynamic teams of intelligent individuals work collaboratively to achieve SMWD's goals and solve challenges with a common aim that fosters a unique bond that is not often found in governmental agencies. The District employs approximately 320 employees and operates with one represented bargaining unit. Santa Margarita Water District's values include: Exemplary service excellence Intelligent innovation that is forward-thinking and adaptive Ethical fiscal responsibility and transparency Environmental and resource stewardship Employee development and leadership training Building relationships that strengthen communities Essential Functions What You Will Do Process payroll for all District employees and review, audit, and enter payroll data with accuracy.

Administer changes in pay, deductions, taxes, retirement contributions, and benefit-related adjustments in accordance with MOUs and labor agreements. Perform payroll calculations including overtime, leave accruals, retroactive adjustments, premium pay, and final pay. Reconcile payroll records, general ledger accounts, benefit statements, and retirement system reports.

Ensure compliance with applicable wage and hour laws, tax regulations, collective bargaining agreements, CalPERS rules, and District policies. Provide responsive and knowledgeable support to employees and departments regarding payroll questions and procedures. Support salary and benefit data needs for budgeting, forecasting, and audits.

Assist with payroll system updates, testing, automation efforts, and process improvements. Maintain accurate payroll documentation and prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders. Collaborate with Human Resources as payroll processes integrate more closely with the District's HR functions.

What You Bring A strong commitment to accuracy, confidentiality, and customer service. Ability to interpret and apply payroll laws, labor agreements, policies, and procedures. Strong analytical skills and the ability to identify and resolve discrepancies.

Hands-on experience with ADP or similar payroll systems and HRIS platforms. Proficiency with spreadsheets and business software. Clear communication skills and the ability to work effectively with employees at all levels of the organization.

Requisite Abilities/Qualifications & Guidelines Education and Experience High school diploma or GED equivalent required. Coursework in accounting, finance, business, or a related field is preferred. Several years of progressive payroll experience, preferably in a unionized and/or public sector environment.

Experience with ADP WFN is highly desirable. Familiarity with CalPERS reporting is strongly preferred. Payroll certifications are helpful but not required.

Experience in the public sector is preferable.Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification, or equivalent, is desirable. Other Necessary Requirements/Additional Information To view the full job description click here: Payroll Administrator Job Description.

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