1

Payroll Analyst Jobs in San Ramon, CA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Payroll Analyst Location: San Jose, CA (onsite) Ayar Labs is shattering AI data bottlenecks by moving data at the speed of light. As pioneers of co-packaged optics (CPO), we are using light ...

Payroll Analyst

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $132K/yr

S. payroll is executed with 100% accuracy and compliance. This role is far more than data entry; you will be the technical lead for Workday payroll auditing, the subject matter expert for Leave of ...

Payroll Analyst

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$86K - $103K/yr

Run payroll across US entities and states: salaried, hourly, and everything a 24/7 multi-site workforce generates. * Own the payroll close: reconciliations, accruals, and the tie-out to the general ...

Senior Payroll Analyst

San Jose, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Senior Payroll Analyst Location: San Jose, CA (onsite) Ayar Labs is shattering AI data bottlenecks by moving data at the speed of light. As pioneers of co-packaged optics (CPO), we are using light ...

Sr. Payroll Analyst

San Jose, CA · On-site

$108K - $135K/yr

The Senior Payroll Analyst will perform complex administrative and accounting duties necessary to prepare payroll for exempt and non-exempt employees in a multi-state environment and globally while ...

Sr. Payroll Analyst

San Jose, CA · On-site

$108K - $135K/yr

The Senior Payroll Analyst will perform complex administrative and accounting duties necessary to prepare payroll for exempt and non-exempt employees in a multi-state environment and globally while ...

As a Senior Payroll Analyst, you'll be a critical engine keeping our global payroll running accurately and on time. This isn't a role for someone who wants to maintain the status quo. You'll own ...

Payroll Analyst IV

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$43 - $48/hr

CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification) is a plus. Responsibilities: * Process bi-weekly payrolls for multiple employee groups with accuracy and timeliness.

Senior, Tax Services - Payroll Analyst

San Jose, CA · On-site

$34.50 - $45/hr

As a Business Process Solutions Payroll Analyst, you will join a dynamic team delivering our US Payroll offering. Recruiting for this role ends on May 31, 2027 Work you will do As a Senior, Payroll ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Payroll Analyst information

See San Ramon, CA salary details

$19

$38

$60

How much do payroll analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll analyst in San Ramon, CA is $38.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.81 and $42.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a payroll analyst do?

A payroll analyst maintains payroll accounts and processes accounting paperwork. As a payroll analyst, your job duties may include preparing payroll audits, creating garnishment reports, and advising the payroll department on complex transactions. You may also coordinate with other departments such as human resources and finance, complete new employment verification, and communicate any changes in payroll to employees. The career requires extensive knowledge of the laws and regulations in your state concerning employee compensation.

What does a payroll analyst do?

A Payroll Analyst is responsible for ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time by processing payroll, auditing records, and maintaining compliance with relevant laws and regulations. They analyze payroll data, resolve discrepancies, and prepare reports for management. Payroll Analysts also stay updated on tax regulations and company policies to ensure payroll processes run smoothly and efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Analyst, you need a solid understanding of payroll processes, tax regulations, and accounting principles, often supported by a relevant degree or certification such as the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP). Familiarity with payroll software (e.g., ADP, SAP, Paychex) and advanced Excel skills are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills set exceptional Payroll Analysts apart. These competencies ensure accurate payroll processing, compliance with regulations, and clear communication with employees and management.

How does a payroll analyst typically collaborate with HR and Finance teams?

Payroll Analysts work closely with both HR and Finance departments to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing. They often coordinate with HR to verify employee information, benefits, and timekeeping records, while partnering with Finance to reconcile payroll data, manage budgets, and support audits. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential, as Payroll Analysts frequently act as a bridge between departments to resolve discrepancies and streamline payroll-related processes.

What is the difference between Payroll Analyst vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll AnalystPayroll Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or related field; certifications like CPP or FPC beneficialHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications like CPP or FPC preferred
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often in finance or HR departmentsOffice environment, typically within HR or payroll departments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various industries including corporate, healthcare, and governmentCommonly found in retail, healthcare, and corporate sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsClarifying job duties and required skills

While both Payroll Analysts and Payroll Specialists work within payroll departments, Payroll Analysts focus more on analyzing payroll data, ensuring compliance, and improving processes. Payroll Specialists handle day-to-day payroll processing, data entry, and employee inquiries. The roles often overlap, but Analysts typically require more analytical skills and certifications.

Are payroll analysts in demand?

Payroll analysts are in demand due to the ongoing need for accurate employee compensation processing and compliance with tax laws. Organizations across various industries seek professionals skilled in payroll software, data analysis, and regulatory knowledge to ensure efficient payroll operations.

Do you need a degree to be a payroll analyst?

A degree is not always required to become a payroll analyst, but many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Relevant skills such as proficiency with payroll software, attention to detail, and understanding of payroll laws are also important for the role.

What job categories do people searching Payroll Analyst jobs in San Ramon, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Payroll Analyst jobs in San Ramon, CA are:

What cities near San Ramon, CA are hiring for Payroll Analyst jobs?

Cities near San Ramon, CA with the most Payroll Analyst job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Analyst job openings in San Ramon, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,124 per year, or $38 per hour.

Senior Payroll Analyst

Ayar Labs

San Jose, CA

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Senior Payroll Analyst

Location: San Jose, CA (onsite)

Ayar Labs is shattering AI data bottlenecks by moving data at the speed of light. As pioneers of
co-packaged optics (CPO), we are using light instead of electricity to move data faster, further,
and with a fraction of the energy needed to fuel the explosive growth of AI models.
Backed by industry giants like NVIDIA, AMD and Intel and manufactured in partnership with the world’s
leading semiconductor ecosystem, Ayar Labs’ co-packaged optics solution is key to unleashing
next-generation AI scale-up architectures. As part of our finance team, you will help support the
employees who are defining the paradigm shift that defines the future of global AI computing
architecture.

The Senior Payroll Analyst role owns full-cycle payroll processing for our multi-state and
global teams, along with the accounting and administration of our equity program — including
journal entries, account reconciliations, and day-to-day management of our Carta equity plan.
This role calls for someone who is exacting about the details — payroll and equity errors are
costly and hard to unwind — while also understanding how each transaction connects to
our financial statements, tax filings, and audits. You will also help prepare supporting
schedules for annual audits and take on ad-hoc projects as they come up.
Essential Functions
  • Payroll amp; Accounting
    • Perform all duties associated with processing semi-monthly payroll for employees in CA and other US states
    • Review Taiwan payroll processed by local accounting firm
    • Maintain, update, process employee payroll data, calculating wages and deductions, managing payroll calendars and schedules, processing wage garnishments, processing stock income reporting
    • Reconcile payroll sub-ledgers to resolve variances in a timely manner
    • Review payroll tax remittance and required government reporting
    • Review and process state payroll-related filings, questionnaires, inquiries
    • When payroll issues arise, prepare comprehensive recommendation for corrective actions and resolve complex payroll discrepancies
    • Ensure compliance with federal, state and local payroll regulations
    • Document payroll procedures and policies, considering best practices for public technology companies
    • Ensure W2s are generated and issued on a timely basis
    • Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a timely manner
    • Prepare monthly journal entries to payroll, benefits, stock compensation and others
    • Reconcile balance sheet accounts and provide detailed analysis of all discrepancies
    • Assist in annual audits relating to financial statements, 401K and others
    • Understand how payroll and equity transactions affect our financial statements, tax filings, and other downstream systems, flagging potential issues before they become compliance problems
  • Equity Administration
    • Administer and maintain equity compensation plans (stock options, RSUs)
    • Process equity transactions including grants, vesting, exercises, releases, and cancellations
    • Maintain and update equity plan databases and employee records
    • Track vesting schedules and ensure timely and accurate processing
    • Ensure compliance with tax, legal, and regulatory requirements (e.g., withholding, reporting)
    • Partner with HR, Finance, Legal, and external brokers on equity-related activities
    • Reconcile equity activity between internal systems, brokers, and transfer agents
    • Prepare and deliver regular and ad hoc reports for finance, accounting, and leadership teams
    • Respond to employee inquiries on equity awards, vesting, and exercises
    • Support audits, internal controls, and equity plan documentation
    • Other payroll, general accounting and stock administration duties as requested
Basic Requirements
  • BS degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration (or equivalent experience)
  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in payroll processing, accounting, and stock/equity administration
  • Prior experience processing multi-state US payroll using ADP
  • Prior experience processing or reviewing international payroll
  • Hands-on experience administering equity plans in Carta (or a comparable platform such as Shareworks or E*TRADE Equity Edge), including grants, vesting, exercises, and releases
  • A high degree of accuracy and attention to detail, combined with the judgment to see how an individual transaction affects the bigger picture — financial statements, tax filings, and audits
  • Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local wage and hour laws and payroll tax regulations
  • Knowledge of equity compensation structures (stock options, RSUs) and the taxation, accounting, and regulatory requirements behind them (e.g., ASC 718)
  • Moderate understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
  • Advanced MS Excel skills, including VLOOKUP and pivot tables
  • Strong analytical and reporting skills, with the ability to identify root causes of discrepancies rather than just correcting symptoms
  • Ability to work cross-functionally with HR, Finance, and Legal, and to communicate clearly and confidentially with employees on pay and equity matters
  • Strong ability to maintain strict confidentiality
  • Organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines and transactions at once
  • Comfortable using AI tools and assisting in applying them to automate manual payroll and accounting processes
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience processing payroll in a public company setting preferred
  • Prior experience with other systems such as NetSuite are a plus
  • Optional: CEP (Certified Equity Professional) or similar certification preferred
  • Exposure to global equity plans and multi-country tax compliance
  • Experience improving or automating payroll/equity workflows (e.g., system implementations, process redesign, or AI-assisted tools)
Salary range: $120,000 - $140,000
NOTE TO RECRUITERS:
Principals only. We are not accepting resumes from recruiters for this position. Remuneration for recruiting activities is only applicable subject to a signed and executed agreement between the parties. Please don’t send candidates to Ayar Labs, and do not contact our managers.
Ayar Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is strongly committed to all policies which will afford equal opportunity employment to all qualified persons without regard to age, sex, national origin, race, color, ethnicity, creed, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. It is the policy of Ayar Labs to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. Veterans are more than welcome and encouraged to apply.