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Payroll Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Excel Hotel Group

Payroll Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $87K/yr

Payroll Operations and Processing · Oversee and manage the end-to-end payroll cycle for multiple property entities and associates, ensuring accuracy and adherence to deadlines. · Review, analyze ...

Excel Hotel Group

Payroll Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $87K/yr

Payroll Operations and Processing • Oversee and manage the end-to-end payroll cycle for multiple property entities and associates, ensuring accuracy and adherence to deadlines. • Review, analyze ...

The Payroll Factory

Payroll Team Lead

Napa, CA · On-site

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 ...

The Payroll Factory

Payroll Team Lead

Napa, CA

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 ...

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All JobsPayroll Associate JobsPayroll Associate Jobs in California

Payroll Associate information

See California salary details

$13

$23

$38

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in California is $23.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Associate, you need a solid understanding of payroll processes, accounting principles, and attention to detail, often supported by a degree in finance, accounting, or related fields. Familiarity with payroll software such as ADP, QuickBooks, or Paychex, and sometimes certification like FPC or CPP, is typically required. Strong organizational skills, discretion, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure accurate and timely payroll processing, compliance with regulations, and confidentiality of sensitive employee information.

What are Payroll Associates?

Payroll Associates are professionals responsible for processing employee paychecks, ensuring accurate calculation of wages, withholding taxes, and managing payroll records. They verify timesheets, resolve discrepancies, and comply with federal and state payroll regulations. Payroll Associates often collaborate with human resources and accounting departments to maintain accurate financial records and support employee inquiries regarding compensation. Their work is essential for ensuring employees are paid correctly and on time.

What is the difference between Payroll Associate vs Payroll Clerk?

AspectPayroll AssociatePayroll Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles prefer accounting or HR certificationsHigh school diploma; basic understanding of payroll processes
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often part of HR or finance teamsOffice environment, handling administrative payroll tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various industries, including corporate, healthcare, and retailCommonly found in similar industries, often overlapping with payroll roles
Comparison Search IntentUnderstanding role differences, career progressionClarifying job responsibilities, entry-level payroll tasks

The Payroll Associate typically has more responsibilities related to payroll processing, compliance, and data management, often requiring some certifications or experience. The Payroll Clerk usually handles administrative payroll tasks, focusing on data entry and record keeping. Both roles are essential in payroll operations, but the Payroll Associate often has a broader scope and may serve as a stepping stone to more advanced payroll or HR positions.

What are some common challenges a Payroll Associate might face, and how can they be addressed?

Payroll Associates often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines during payroll cycles, handling sensitive employee data with confidentiality, and staying updated with frequently changing tax regulations. Effective time management and strong attention to detail are essential to avoid errors and ensure compliance. Collaborating closely with HR and finance teams can help resolve discrepancies quickly and maintain smooth payroll operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in California? The most popular types of Payroll jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Payroll Associate job openings:
Payroll Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,078 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
Payroll Associate II - CA

Payroll Associate II - CA

Blentech Corporation

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$26.48 - $29.51/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

At Blentech Corporation, we specialize in "Blending Simplicity with Technology." We design and manufacture innovative industrial processing solutions. We are currently seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented Payroll Associate II to join our Human Resources team. This role is vital to ensuring the precision of our payroll operations while actively supporting our company culture and employee appreciation initiatives.
Position Summary
The Payroll Associate II executes day-to-day payroll processing and maintains the integrity of our HRIS database. Working under the direction of the Human Resource Supervisor, you will handle the tactical entry of employee data, time-tracking records, and W-2 documentation. Beyond core compliance and processing, this position serves as the primary point of contact for internal payroll inquiries and collaborates closely with HR leadership to coordinate employee recognition, milestone celebrations, and administrative projects.
Key Responsibilities
  • Payroll & Data Management: Oversee the end-to-end creation, maintenance, and processing of accurate and timely payroll records. Manage tactical data entry for employee profiles, timecards, and company W-2 documentation
  • UKG Experience: Must have UKG experience running and completing payroll with Final approval with the HR Supervisor
  • Employee Support: Serve as a dedicated, supportive resource for internal staff to address and resolve payroll-related questions and issues
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with the Accounting department to align and reconcile employee payroll information
  • Compensation Analysis: Assist the HR Supervisor with benchmark compensation analysis utilizing Salary.com for annual increases, new hires, and promotional opportunities
  • Culture & Recognition Initiatives: Coordinate staff celebrations, Years of Service awards, milestone recognition, holiday parties, and quarterly safety lunches. Manage company award nominations (e.g., Best Places to Work)
  • Administrative Support: Maintain company clothing/uniform inventory, manage the employee business card process, assist with Udemy platform management, and monitor weekly company reviews on Glassdoor and Indeed. Compile, log, and submit CMTA forms. Run business errands as required

Required Competencies
  • Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to deliver excellent customer service to internal staff and interpret professional correspondence, procedure manuals, and safety rules
  • Mathematical & Analytical Aptitude: Proficiency in calculating figures and amounts (discounts, commissions, percentages) and applying basic algebraic concepts
  • Organization & Adaptability: Strong organizational skills with attention to detail. Proven ability to prioritize a dynamic workload and adapt to changing priorities with a positive attitude
  • Professional Integrity: A demonstrated commitment to operational excellence, high standards, and maintaining strict confidentiality regarding sensitive employee data

Minimum Qualifications
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; an AA degree in Accounting, or a related field is preferred
  • Experience: 3 years of dedicated payroll processing experience managing payroll for an organization with over 100 employees
  • Payroll Scope: Run and complete Multi-state payroll experience is required International payroll experience utilizing an Employer of Record (EOR) is a strong plus
  • Technical Skills: Prior experience operating within the UKG HRIS platform is required. Experience working within a PEO model is a plus. Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, G-Suite, and modern HRIS workflows
  • This is an onsite position. You must live within driving distance of the Santa Rosa office
  • HRIS Knowledge: Must have a minimum of a year of UKG payroll experience, and PEO experience is a plus

What We Offer
  • Wage Range: $26.48 - $29.51
  • Benefits: 100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance for the employee
  • Retirement: 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
  • Time Off:  Paid Time Off (PTO) package
  • A collaborative culture with customized career development tracks designed to help you grow with us

We are not accepting international candidates and are not open to recruiters.
Blentech Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. Employment relationships are at-will, and job descriptions are subject to change at management's discretion.

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