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Payroll Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

High Light Electric Inc

Payroll Clerk

Colton, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Create monthly reports to management as needed. * Assist in compliance with and maximization of the ... Interest in payroll, accounting, HR, or compliance-related work (entry-level candidates encouraged ...

Southern Tire Mart

Payroll Specialist

Fontana, CA · On-site

$24 - $32.50/hr

Partner with HR and Finance teams to ensure accurate employee records and payroll data. * Assist with internal and external audits and payroll-related reporting requests. * Stay current on payroll ...

AppleOne

Payroll Clerk

Riverside, CA

$34/hr

... Assist with payroll corrections, retroactive adjustments, and off-cycle payrolls as needed • Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a timely, professional, and confidential manner • Support ...

Clear Choice Staffing, Inc

Be Seen First

Payroll Specialist

Corona, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Prepare payroll reports for accounting and management ... Manage benefit deductions, garnishments, and PTO accruals * Assist with year-end processes such as ...

Fuji Food Products Inc.

Payroll Specialist

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$25.25 - $34.25/hr

Payroll Specialist Reports to: Accounting Manager Fuji Food Products, Inc. is a leader in fresh ... Calculates retroactive pay adjustments. * Assist managers and employees with timecard procedure ...

ono

Payroll Clerk

Diamond Bar, CA

$24 - $28/hr

Follow all company payroll policies, procedures, and confidentiality standards. * Assist with ad ... hoc reporting when needed. * Complete other duties as assigned. Requirements and Qualifications * 0 ...

ono

Payroll Clerk

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Follow all company payroll policies, procedures, and confidentiality standards. * Assist with ad ... hoc reporting when needed. * Complete other duties as assigned. Requirements and Qualifications * 0 ...

Ono Hawaiian BBQ

Payroll Clerk

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Follow all company payroll policies, procedures, and confidentiality standards. * Assist with ad ... hoc reporting when needed. * Complete other duties as assigned. Requirements and Qualifications * 0 ...

TalentCount

Payroll Supervisor

Brea, CA · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Conduct training sessions for field employees and operational teams regarding payroll procedures and wage compliance updates. * Assist with payroll-related audit requests, including workers ...

CleanStreet

Route Supervisor

Fontana, CA · On-site

Monitor payroll * Assist in recruiting Requirements Required experience * Management: 1 year Required languages * English * Spanish Required license or certification * Driver's License class B or A

TalentCount

Payroll Supervisor

Brea, CA · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Conduct training sessions for field employees and operational teams regarding payroll procedures and wage compliance updates. * Assist with payroll-related audit requests, including workers ...

Addison Group

Payroll Supervisor

Orange, CA · On-site

$42 - $45/hr

Prepare payroll reports and assist with internal and external payroll audits. * Maintain accurate payroll records and documentation while ensuring data integrity. * Drive continuous process ...

Addison Group

Payroll Supervisor

Orange, CA · On-site

$42 - $45/hr

Prepare payroll reports and assist with internal and external payroll audits. * Maintain accurate payroll records and documentation while ensuring data integrity. * Drive continuous process ...

Ono Hawaiian BBQ

Payroll Clerk

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Follow all company payroll policies, procedures, and confidentiality standards. * Assist with ad ... hoc reporting when needed. * Complete other duties as assigned. Requirements and Qualifications * 0 ...

ono

Payroll Clerk

Diamond Bar, CA

$24 - $28/hr

Follow all company payroll policies, procedures, and confidentiality standards. * Assist with ad ... hoc reporting when needed. * Complete other duties as assigned. Requirements and Qualifications * 0 ...

Redwood

Payroll Specialist

Chino Hills, CA · On-site

$26/hr

Answer phone calls, Emails. * Assist with employee inquiries regarding payroll checks or deductions on their paychecks. * Manages workflow to ensure all payroll transactions are processed accurately ...

Primestaff HR

Part-Time Payroll Clerk

Villa Park, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

... Assist with payroll tax filings and compliance requirements.  Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, and benefits.  Prepare payroll reports for management and accounting ...

JD.COM

Global Payroll Specialist

Fontana, CA · On-site

$24 - $32.50/hr

... AI coding assistants to drive measurable improvements in productivity. - English required ... Opportunity to work in a global, collaborative payroll team

Ware Malcomb

Payroll Lead

Irvine, CA · On-site

$75K - $92K/yr

Participate in company, office and team events as appropriate. * Assist with annual 401(k) audit in partnership with the Payroll Manager. * Prepare and analyze payroll and headcount reports for multi ...

Sun Mar Health Care

Payroll Manager

Menifee, CA

As Payroll Manager, you are delegated the administrative authority, responsibility, and accountability necessary for carrying out your assigned duties. * Assist in implementing the day-to-day ...

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All JobsPayroll JobsPayroll Assistant JobsPayroll Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Payroll Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$22

$34

How much do payroll assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll assistant in Riverside, CA is $22.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Assistant, you need strong attention to detail, basic accounting knowledge, and familiarity with payroll laws, typically supported by a relevant diploma or associate degree. Proficiency with payroll software such as ADP, QuickBooks, or SAP, along with Microsoft Excel, is commonly required. Excellent organizational skills, discretion, and clear communication help build trust and ensure accuracy in processing sensitive payroll information. These skills are critical to ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time while maintaining compliance with legal and organizational standards.

What qualifications do I need for payroll?

A payroll assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer or require postsecondary education or certifications in accounting or payroll processing. Strong attention to detail, proficiency with payroll software and spreadsheets, and knowledge of payroll laws and regulations are also important qualifications for the role.

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

Payroll Assistants in large organizations often encounter challenges such as handling high volumes of data, ensuring compliance with complex and frequently changing tax laws, and meeting tight deadlines for payroll processing. Attention to detail is crucial since small errors can affect employee satisfaction and legal compliance. Additionally, Payroll Assistants must collaborate closely with HR and finance departments to verify timesheets, resolve discrepancies, and maintain accurate records, making strong communication skills essential.

What Does a Payroll Assistant Do?

A payroll assistant provides administrative support in the payroll department. As a payroll assistant, your duties include entering payroll data, processing new hire paperwork, and making changes related to tax withholding and employee benefits. You also help create detailed documents outlining payroll for the company or organization and may perform additional clerical tasks as needed.

What does a payroll assistant do?

A payroll assistant supports the payroll department by processing employee wages, ensuring accurate calculation of hours, deductions, and taxes. They often use payroll software, verify data accuracy, and maintain records to ensure employees are paid correctly and on time.

How long does it take to become a payroll assistant?

Becoming a payroll assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, and some employers may prefer candidates with basic knowledge of payroll software or accounting. On-the-job training usually lasts a few weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the company's payroll system and the individual's prior experience. Gaining relevant skills and certifications can enhance job prospects but does not significantly extend the initial training period.

Is payroll more HR or accounting?

Payroll assistants primarily work within the payroll or accounting departments, focusing on processing employee wages, deductions, and tax filings. While payroll involves understanding HR policies related to compensation, it is generally considered part of the accounting function due to its emphasis on financial transactions and record-keeping. The role often requires familiarity with payroll software and compliance with tax regulations.
More about Payroll Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Payroll Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA? For Payroll Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Payroll Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Payroll Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Payroll Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Payroll Assistant job openings:
Payroll Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,657 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Payroll Clerk

Payroll Clerk

High Light Electric Inc

Colton, CA • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
Mendoza Companies is a multi-entity ecosystem of construction, services, and investment businesses operating under The Mendoza Way. The platform includes High-Light Electric, Inc. (HLE) - a California-based union electrical infrastructure contractor founded in 1996 delivering public works and complex electrical construction across California - along with Mendoza Trust and an international independent contractor workforce.
We partner with Caltrans, municipalities, transit authorities, and infrastructure programs throughout California, with active expansion into Nevada, Arizona, and additional U.S. markets. In 2025, HLE was recognized on the Inc. Regionals Pacific list - #116.
Mendoza Companies is guided by Mission 2040: to build a $1 billion business ecosystem connecting 1,000 families and communities through business.
THE ROLE
The Payroll Clerk is a detail-oriented, compliance-focused support role responsible for assisting with payroll processing activities across the organization.
This role supports the accuracy and integrity of payroll operations, including timecard validation, payroll documentation, reporting support, and coordination with HR, Finance, and Operations teams.
This position is well-suited for someone early in their payroll or accounting career who is highly organized, comfortable working with numbers, and interested in learning payroll compliance in a structured, high-volume environment.
The Payroll Clerk plays an important role in ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time while supporting compliance with applicable wage and hour regulations and internal company policies.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Prepare and upload payroll certifications (CPRs) in compliance with DIR and union rules, ensuring backups for audits, labor audits, or internal validation/testing.
  • Validate job classifications and collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) by employee and project, coordinating responses with Compliance and Management.
  • Process salary adjustments, garnishments, and retroactive payments in a timely and accurate manner, aligning rates according to union updates and HR guidelines.
  • Monitor benefits, fringes, and payment dates, supporting internal audits and preventative corrections.
  • Reconcile timecards and work records weekly with systems such as Vista and Procore, verifying overtime and special classifications.
  • Resolve anomalies in records with the Office and Projects teams, keeping union and administrative documentation up to date.
  • Prepare union and government reports, including fringe summaries, and maintain systems ready for audits.
  • Assist in compliance with CA Prevailing Wage requirements as applicable.
  • Access time & attendance and payroll records, and compile reports as requested.
  • Utilize and maintain systems, procedures and policies for payroll/HR/accounting functions to ensure adherence to company guidelines.
  • Track and report key functional metrics to reduce waste and improve payroll effectiveness.
  • Collaborate with key people to ensure payroll accuracy, integrity, and responsiveness.
  • Maintain immaculate and accurate records relating to payroll, expense reimbursements, and benefits.
  • Recommend and enforce policies and procedures for payroll activities.
  • Create monthly reports to management as needed.
  • Assist in compliance with and maximization of the California Employment Training Panel Funding Contract for the reimbursement of training costs.
  • Assist with, and/or run special projects as directed by the Director of Finance and/or Director of HR, or help with any payroll or HR projects or activities as needed subject to availability.
  • Perform any other duties and tasks as assigned.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Required
  • 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 accuracy when working with numbers and data
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a structured, fast-paced environment
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively across teams
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive employee information
  • Willingness to learn payroll systems and compliance processes

Preferred
  • 1+ year of experience in payroll, accounting support, or administrative roles in California
  • Familiarity with payroll or project systems such as Vista, Procore, or similar tools
  • Basic understanding of payroll concepts, wage and hour compliance, or union payroll processes
  • Bilingual English/Spanish

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS ROLE
This role supports payroll operations in a structured, deadline-driven environment where accuracy and attention to detail are essential.
You will work closely with HR, Finance, and Operations teams to support payroll cycles, compliance documentation, and reporting needs across multiple projects.
The role requires strong organization, consistency, and the ability to manage recurring deadlines while maintaining accuracy in a high-volume setting.
WHAT WE OFFER
We offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, which may include:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Employee assistance and wellness programs
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development

HIRING PROCESS
Our hiring process is structured, consistent, and designed to ensure a strong mutual fit:
  • Application and screening questionnaire
  • 10-15-minute structured pre-screen conversation with HR
  • Panel interview in person
  • Final decision and offer stage

Qualified candidates can expect clear communication and a timely process throughout the hiring stages.
Pre-employment background checks and eligibility verification are required prior to hire.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
HLE is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

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