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Payroll Assistant Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Hiring & Training - Assist in recruiting, onboarding, and ongoing training of payroll specialists. * Collaboration - Work closely with internal teams to support payroll-related functions like sales ...

Hiring & Training - Assist in recruiting, onboarding, and ongoing training of payroll specialists. * Collaboration - Work closely with internal teams to support payroll-related functions like sales ...

Reconcile payroll accounts, prepare payroll reports, assist Accounting with payroll-related transactions, and maintain accurate documentation. * Respond to employee payroll and HR inquiries, partner ...

Payroll Clerk

Yountville, CA

$22.50 - $29.25/hr

We are seeking a Payroll Clerk, to be located at our offices in Napa, to support our growing organization and ensure smooth, accurate payroll processing for our dedicated employees. Your Role As a ...

Payroll Coordinator

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site +1

$22 - $27/hr

Payroll Coordinator DEPARTMENT: Human Resources REPORTS TO: Payroll Manager FLSA STATUE: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Position Summary: The Payroll Coordinator is responsible for a majority of the data ...

Payroll Coordinator

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site +1

$22 - $27/hr

Payroll Coordinator DEPARTMENT: Human Resources REPORTS TO: Payroll Manager FLSA STATUE: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Position Summary: The Payroll Coordinator is responsible for a majority of the data ...

Payroll Coordinator

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Payroll Coordinator DEPARTMENT: Human Resources REPORTS TO: Payroll Manager FLSA STATUE: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Position Summary: The Payroll Coordinator is responsible for a majority of the data ...

Payroll Specialist

Napa, CA ยท On-site

$44.23 - $50/hr

About the Role We are seeking a Payroll Specialist to join our team in a hybrid role based in Napa. In this role, you will serve as a subject matter expert supporting the accurate and timely ...

Payroll Specialist

Napa, CA ยท Hybrid

$44.23 - $50/hr

About the Role We are seeking a Payroll Specialist to join our team in a hybrid role based in Napa. In this role, you will serve as a subject matter expert supporting the accurate and timely ...

Payroll Clerk

Rohnert Park, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $28.50/hr

Position Summary Assists employees and managers with payroll, personnel, and benefit information and reports. Keys, reviews, corrects, and updates entries to the automated payroll system. Maintains ...

Payroll Clerk

Rohnert Park, CA

$22 - $28.50/hr

Position Summary Assists employees and managers with payroll, personnel, and benefit information and reports. Keys, reviews, corrects, and updates entries to the automated payroll system. Maintains ...

Payroll Clerk

Novato, CA

$23.25 - $30.25/hr

Position Summary Assists employees and managers with payroll, personnel, and benefit information and reports. Keys, reviews, corrects, and updates entries to the automated payroll system. Maintains ...

Payroll Clerk

Suisun City, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Position Summary Assists employees and managers with payroll, personnel, and benefit information and reports. Keys, reviews, corrects, and updates entries to the automated payroll system. Maintains ...

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Payroll Assistant information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$14

$24

$36

How much do payroll assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll assistant in Santa Rosa, CA is $24.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $27.36 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Payroll Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? For Payroll Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Payroll Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Payroll Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Payroll Assistant jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Payroll Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Payroll Assistant job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $49,944 per year, or $24 per hour.
Payroll Team Lead

Payroll Team Lead

The Payroll Factory

Napa, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

The JOB
We are looking for a Lead Payroll Processor to oversee our payroll team and ensure our clients receive top-notch payroll services. This role is hands-on, fast-paced, and perfect for someone who thrives on accuracy, organization, and leadership. If you love payroll, problem-solving, and supporting a team, this role is for you!
What You'll Be Doing
  • Leading the Payroll Team - Oversee and support payroll specialists, providing guidance and coaching to maintain accuracy and efficiency.
  • Payroll Processing - Heavy data entry and review, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
  • Client Support - Troubleshoot payroll issues, resolve escalations, and work closely with clients to ensure seamless payroll experiences.
  • Workflow Optimization - Identify and implement improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy in payroll processing.
  • Hiring & Training - Assist in recruiting, onboarding, and ongoing training of payroll specialists.
  • Collaboration - Work closely with internal teams to support payroll-related functions like sales, customer service, and compliance.
  • Confidentiality - Handle sensitive employee and client data with discretion and professionalism.
  • Problem-Solving on the Fly - Navigate payroll complexities, tax issues, and compliance questions with confidence.
  • In-Person Team Support - Work in-office to support staff, assist clients and visitors, and keep our payroll operations running smoothly. Monday to Friday from 8am - 5pm in Napa, CA.

What We're Looking For
  • Experience & Education - 2+ years of payroll processing experience (leadership or supervisory experience preferred). Associate's degree in accounting, HR, or related field is a plus.
  • Tech-Savvy - Strong typing and data-entry skills (10-key by touch), Microsoft Office proficiency, and experience with payroll software.
  • Detail-Oriented & Organized - Ability to prioritize, meet deadlines, and maintain accuracy under tight time constraints.
  • Problem-Solver - Strong analytical and decision-making skills with a knack for troubleshooting payroll and tax issues.
  • Customer Service Focused - Exceptional communication skills and a client-first mindset.
  • Adaptable & Fast-Paced - Ability to work in a high-volume environment with constant deadlines.
  • Bonus Points - Experience with time and attendance, retirement plans, ยง125 plans, HSA, workers' comp, garnishments, or bilingual English/Spanish skills.

Benefits
  • Competitive cash compensation based on experience
  • Paid holidays, vacation/sick/float days
  • Group Medical Insurance Plan
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Spending Accounts

If you're an experienced payroll professional ready to take the next step in your career, we'd love to have you on our team!