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

... Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed. Organizational Development: • Recruits, hires, trains and develops Assistant Managers, Area ...

Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs to maximize ... Lead all aspects of manager and associate development including training, providing individualized ...

Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs to maximize ... Lead all aspects of manager and associate development including training, providing individualized ...

Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs to maximize ... Lead all aspects of manager and associate development including training, providing individualized ...

Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs and communicate ... Support all aspects of manager and associate professional development, including training ...

... associate culture), and process (operating procedures and compliance standards). This position ... Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs and communicate ...

New

Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs and communicate ... Support all aspects of manager and associate professional development, including training ...

Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs and communicate ... Support all aspects of manager and associate professional development, including training ...

Yeoman

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

... payroll accounting, travel reimbursement, and personnel transfers. * Paralegal training. * Both full-time and part-time Coast Guard-funded educational opportunities leading to an associate or ...

Director, Facilities

Saint Helena, CA · On-site

$145K - $218K/yr

Develops payroll and/or non-payroll budget. Monitors expenditures and ensures compliance with ... Therefore, we require that all associates receive all required vaccinations as a condition of ...

Senior Accountant

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

You will perform general bookkeeping, payroll and business advising for a variety of individual and ... Bachelor's degree preferred, Associates degree required * Experience with QuickBooks What we offer:

Senior Accountant

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

You will perform general bookkeeping, payroll and business advising for a variety of individual and ... Bachelor's degree preferred, Associates degree required * Experience with QuickBooks What we offer:

Senior Accountant

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

You will perform general bookkeeping, payroll and business advising for a variety of individual and ... Bachelor's degree preferred, Associates degree required * Experience with QuickBooks What we offer:

Store Manager

Napa, CA

$87K - $126K/yr

Associates will accrue paid time off up to 200 hours per year (inclusive of PTO, floating holidays ... Manage payroll and control expenses * Foster a results-driven store environment * Successfully ...

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Payroll Associate information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$15

$26

$42

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Santa Rosa, CA is $26.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $29.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is payroll assistant entry level?

A payroll assistant role is typically considered entry level and often requires minimal prior experience. Basic skills in data entry, attention to detail, and familiarity with payroll software are usually sufficient for starting in this position.

Do you need a degree to be a payroll associate?

A degree is not typically required to become a payroll associate, but employers often prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include knowledge of payroll software, attention to detail, and understanding of payroll laws and regulations.

What do payroll associates do?

Payroll associates are responsible for processing employee compensation, ensuring accurate and timely payment through data entry, calculations, and record keeping. They often use payroll software and must adhere to company policies and legal regulations related to wages and taxes.

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.

Is payroll under HR or finance?

Payroll associates typically work within the finance or accounting department, as payroll involves managing employee compensation, taxes, and deductions. However, payroll functions often collaborate closely with HR to ensure accurate employee data and compliance with policies. The specific department can vary by organization, but payroll is generally considered part of finance or a specialized payroll team.

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 Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Payroll Associate job openings:
Store Manager

Store Manager

Ross Stores

Sonoma, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Our values start with our people, join a team that values you!

Bring your talents to Ross, our leading off-price retail chain with over 2,200 stores, and a strong track record of success and growth. Our focus has always been bringing our customers a constant stream of high-quality brands and on-trend merchandise at extraordinary savings. All while providing a fun and exciting treasure hunt experience.
As part of our team, you will experience:

  • Success. Our winning team pursues excellence while learning and evolving
  • Career growth. We develop industry leading talent because Ross grows when our people grow
  • Teamwork. We work together to solve the hard problems and find the right solution
  • Our commitment to Diversity, Equality & Inclusion, and our community. We celebrate the backgrounds, identities, and ideas of those who work and shop with us because our differences make us stronger. We strive to be a positive force in our community.

Our Corporate headquarters are in Dublin, CA, we have 3 buying offices in key markets in New York City, Los Angeles, and Boston, and 8 distribution centers nationwide. With 2025 revenues of $22.8 billion, we are a Fortune 500 company who is committed to providing an inclusive work environment with continuous learning opportunities and development for our teams.

GENERAL PURPOSE:
Responsible for all aspects of the Stores' operations. Leads the entire operation of the Store to ensure that Company standards and best practices are consistently met. Staffs, trains and develops leadership team to deliver the desired sales and profit results, while maintaining a friendly, easy to shop environment. Recruits, trains and develops Associates. Manages the operations of the Stockroom, Front End, and Sales Floor to ensure new merchandise gets to the sales floor in a timely manner, goods are received properly and manages expenses through execution of best practices and productivity.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
General Operating Requirements:
• Leads all Company Best Practices and maximizes productivity by minimizing steps and touches while working.
• Analyzes Store reports to evaluate controllable expenses and overall Store performance.
• Addresses any variance to Company standards with appropriate action plan, partnering with the District Manager as needed.
• Ensures proper scheduling of Associates to meet business objectives.
• Accepts special assignments as directed by Leadership.
• Responsible for payroll administration including daily punch edits, Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed.
Organizational Development:
• Recruits, hires, trains and develops Assistant Managers, Area Supervisors and non-exempt Associates.
• Through selection, training and motivation, strives to reduce Store turnover. Utilizes and promotes all retention tools including incentive programs, recognition opportunities, contests and training. Ensures all required training courses are prioritize and completed in a timely manner.
• Responsible for addressing personnel and performance issues including coaching, verbal and written warnings, progressive discipline and termination when needed.
• Ensures compliance with Ross personnel policies and procedures.
• Manages Associate Relations issues, consulting with the District Manager as needed.
• Ensures compliance with all State, Local and Federal regulations.
Expense Control:
• Leads all expenditures to be within budget.
• Controls payroll hours to plan, as the primary controllable expense, as well as adjusting to current business trends.
Maintaining a Safe & Secure Environment:
• Maintains adherence to Company safety policies and ensures the safety of Associates and Customers.
• Ensures all Associates understand and can execute emergency operating procedures.
Customer Service:
• Treats all Customers, Associates, and other leaders with respect.
• Demonstrates courtesy, friendliness, and professionalism at all times. Recognizes Associates using Company recognition programs.
• Executes Customer service programs and Merchandise Presentation programs through Associate training and program supervision.
• Supervises and coaches Retail Associates in providing efficient and friendly service at the registers, Customer Service desk, fitting rooms, sales floor, etc.
Personal and Store Brand:
• Leads all Store Associates in, and models, a professional appearance, in accordance with the Company Dress Code. Reinforces the Company Dress Code at all times.
• Represents and supports the Company brand at all times.
• Manages Store to ensure a clean, neat, easy to shop environment.
• Maintains a high standard of housekeeping with help of contracted maintenance personnel and Ross Associates.
Merchandise Processing and In-Store Marketing
• Ensures recovery, sizing and markdowns are completed to Company standards through teaching, assigning tasks, and following up per Company best practice.
• Ensures merchandise is presented and organized according to Company merchandising guidelines.
• Urgently manages merchandise processing to the sales floor within the expected Company timeframe.
Loss Prevention:
• Responsible for training Associates on Loss Prevention programs to achieve Store shortage goals.
• As a representative of Ross Leadership, demonstrates integrity and honesty in all interactions with Associates and Customers. Safeguards confidential information, cash and credit card information and merchandise.
• Understands and complies with the Loss Prevention Awareness Program and is responsible for Store Loss Prevention which includes maintaining a large Customer service presence on the sales floor, Customer and Associate engagement and heightened Loss Prevention awareness.
• Responsible for leading the annual inventory process including preparation and execution of inventory guidelines.
• Monitors mark-out-of-stock policy to ensure proper administration.
COMPETENCIES:
• Manages Work Processes
• Business Acumen
• Plans, Aligns & Prioritizes
• Builds Talent
• Collaborates
• Leading by Example
• Communicates Effectively
• Ensures Accountability & Execution
QUALIFICATIONS AND SPECIAL SKILLS REQUIRED:
• Five or more years of Store management experience in a retail environment.
• Must maintain a high level of Customer service.
• Must demonstrate the ability to lead, manage, motivate and communicate positively to Store Associates at all levels.
• Ability to train, coach and develop Associates at all levels.
• Ability to organize and prioritize tasks necessary to accomplish goals, develop a schedule to complete tasks and execute to achieve results.
• Fluency in English.
• Must exercise considerable independent judgement and discretion.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/ADA:
Ability to use all Store equipment, including PDTs, registers and PC as required.
Ability to spend up to 100% of working time standing, walking, and moving around the Store.
Ability to regularly bend at the waist, squat, kneel, climb, carry, reach, and stoop.
Ability to occasionally push, pull and lift more than 25 lbs.
Ability to use janitorial equipment, rolling racks, ladders and other assigned supplies.
Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations commonly used in retail environments.
Certain assignments may require other qualifications and skills.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Direct supervision of Assistant Store Manager, Area Supervisors and all Retail Associates.
DISCLAIMER
This job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at management's discretion.
Ross is an equal employment opportunity employer. We consider individuals for employment or promotion according to their skills, abilities and experience. We believe that it is an essential part of the Company's overall commitment to attract, hire and develop a strong, talented and diverse workforce. Ross is committed to complying with all applicable laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, physical, mental or developmental disability, sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding), veteran status, military status, marital or registered domestic partnership status, medical condition (including cancer or genetic characteristics), genetic information, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, as well as any other category protected by federal, state or local laws.
COMPENSATION
The base salary range for this role is $70,310 - $89,014. The base salary range is dependent on factors including, but not limited to, experience, skills, qualifications, relevant education, certifications, seniority, and location. The range listed is just one component of the total compensation package for employees. Other rewards vary by position and location.