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Payroll Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

JOB SUMMARY AND PURPOSE The Payroll Associate I assists the preparation of semi-monthly payrolls, implements timekeeping systems and answers employee inquiries related to pay and timekeeping. DUTIES ...

New

Payroll Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$28.80 - $30.32/hr

JOB SUMMARY AND PURPOSE The Payroll Associate I assists the preparation of semi-monthly payrolls, implements timekeeping systems and answers employee inquiries related to pay and timekeeping. DUTIES ...

New

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Payroll Specialist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$39.70 - $48.87/hr

The organization's payroll team is currently balancing regular payroll responsibilities alongside ... Associates may also be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or other paid leave as ...

The organization's payroll team is currently balancing regular payroll responsibilities alongside ... Associates may also be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or other paid leave as ...

Temporary Associate Payroll Specialist I

Brea, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $33.25/hr

Temporary Associate Payroll Specialist Summary This position is responsible for receiving payroll information from assigned clients and/or Payroll Specialists and provides support. This role resolves ...

Temporary Associate Payroll Specialist I

Brea, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $33.25/hr

Temporary Associate Payroll Specialist Summary This position is responsible for receiving payroll information from assigned clients and/or Payroll Specialists and provides support. This role resolves ...

In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable. Equal ...

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Payroll Associate information

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How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 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 is a payroll associate?

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 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 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 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.

How do you become a payroll associate?

To become a payroll associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with strong attention to detail and proficiency in payroll software or spreadsheets. Relevant skills include understanding payroll laws and regulations, and some employers may prefer candidates with prior experience or certifications in payroll or accounting. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with tools like ADP or QuickBooks can be advantageous.

Is doing payroll a hard job?

Payroll associates are responsible for processing employee wages, ensuring accuracy, and complying with tax laws, which requires attention to detail and knowledge of payroll software. The job can be straightforward but may involve handling complex calculations, deadlines, and sensitive information, making it moderately challenging depending on the organization’s size and complexity.

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:

Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,078 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

$28.80 - $30.32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

About Us:

VOALA Helping Our Most Vulnerable Change Their Life Stories

Volunteers of America is a non-profit human services organization committed to serving people in need, strengthening families, and building communities. VOALA provides a variety of social services to Los Angeles area communities such as Head Start programs, Upward Bound college prep programs, veterans’ services, homeless shelters, low-income housing program as well as drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Learn more at www.voala.org.

PAY RATE: $28.80 - $30.32 Per Hour
BENEFITS: VOALA offers competitive medical, dental, vision and retirement benefits.

JOB SUMMARY AND PURPOSE

The Payroll Associate I assists the preparation of semi-monthly payrolls, implements timekeeping systems and answers employee inquiries related to pay and timekeeping.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Train employees and supervisors on use of automated timekeeping process, validate entries for each payroll
    • Verify missing punches, pending timesheet approvals, and pending PTO with supervisors during payroll process
    • Verify OT and DT hours to make sure punches are inserted correctly during payroll process
    • Prepares migration of work hours to HRIS system (UltiPro) for to generate payroll.
  • Assist in semi-monthly payroll processing from HRIS system (UltiPro)
    • Answer any pay/PTO related questions
    • Input W4s
    • Input Direct Deposits
    • Hand deliver paychecks as directed
  • Other tasks as may be directed by Director of Strategic Finance

ESSENTIAL ABILITY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Ability to work and deal with difficult, uncooperative, and potentially aggressive clients as VOALA serves the neediest of the needy in our programs, which may include clients with homelessness, mental illness, substance abuse, recently released from incarceration, and other challenges.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

  • An essential function of this position requires incumbents to report to the office.
  • Train employees on timekeeping system
  • Assist payroll preparation from timekeeping system
  • Validate timekeeping entries;
  • Answer employee questions related to pay and timekeeping system
  • Other duties as required and may be subject to change

MANDATED REPORTER

As service providers to the underprivileged and vulnerable in our community, all employees are considered Mandated Reporters, and must report any instance of physical or sexual abuse to proper authorities.

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to pass a fingerprint clearance, background check, including criminal history, personal references, employment and education verifications
  • Ability to perform under circumstances of possible emotional stress and conflicts dealing with difficult, uncooperative, and potentially aggressive clients as VOALA serves the neediest of the needy in our programs which may include clients with homelessness, mental-illness, substance abuse, recently released from incarceration and other challenges.

EDUCATION:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent (GED)

EXPERIENCE:

  • Minimum One year of experience in payroll, bookkeeping, finance or accounting; OR
  • Bachelor’s degree in related field in lieu of experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Business preferred
  • Previous experience using time and attendance software is preferred (NOVA Time, WFM or follow-on program)
  • Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles
  • Familiar with Great Plain accounting software

Volunteers of America is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

This employer participates in E-Verify as required by the federal government and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment.


Volunteers of America Los Angeles logo

About Volunteers of America Los Angeles

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Volunteers of America Los Angeles (VOALA) is a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, California. The organization falls under the community development industry, offering a wide range of services focused on welfare improvement and social betterment. With a rich history dating back to 1896, VOALA has been on a dedicated mission to “change lives and communities by providing services and building partnerships that enable hope, healing, and well-being."

Industry

Non-profits

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1896

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