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Payroll Associate Jobs in Spring Valley, CA (NOW HIRING)

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 Coordinator

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$23 - $25/hr

Payroll Coordinator | Hybrid Opportunity | Contract-to-Hire Looking for your next opportunity in ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Payroll Specialist - Temp-to-Hire We are seeking an experienced Payroll Specialist with strong ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Payroll Specialist - Temp-to-Hire We are seeking an experienced Payroll Specialist with strong ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Payroll Coordinator El Cajon, CA | $25-$28/hr | Full-Time | Temp-to-Hire | 100% Onsite Are you a ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Payroll Coordinator El Cajon, CA | $25-$28/hr | Full-Time | Temp-to-Hire | 100% Onsite Are you a ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Payroll Specialist

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

As our Payroll Specialist, you'll play a crucial role in our accounting operations, working closely ... Associates Degree in Accounting. * Possess a strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word ...

Payroll Specialist

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

As our Payroll Specialist, you'll play a crucial role in our accounting operations, working closely ... Associates Degree in Accounting. * Possess a strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word ...

Payroll/HR - H

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

The payroll specialist will provide general payroll information, reports and support to ancillary ... Associates Degree or Bachelor' Degree from an accredited university in Accounting or Business ...

Payroll/HR - H

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

The payroll specialist will provide general payroll information, reports and support to ancillary ... Associates Degree or Bachelor' Degree from an accredited university in Accounting or Business ...

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Payroll Associate information

See Spring Valley, CA salary details

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How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Spring Valley, CA is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $27.79 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 Spring Valley, CA?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Spring Valley, CA are:

What cities near Spring Valley, CA are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities near Spring Valley, CA with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Spring Valley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,882 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Payroll and Retirement Associate - SD

Excellent Education Development (ExED)

San Diego, CA • On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 hours ago


Key responsibilities

  • Manage and process payroll for multiple client schools, including data entry, review, and submission.

  • Determine eligibility and enroll staff into CalSTRS and CalPERS retirement plans, and prepare related reports.

  • Provide customer service and support schools with payroll questions and assist with payroll-related tasks such as garnishments and tax filings.


Job description

About Us

ExED (www.exed.org) is a nonprofit organization that fosters the development and management of high-performing charter schools. We believe every child should have access to high-quality public education, especially in educationally underserved communities. ExED is the only nonprofit charter school back office service provider in Southern California and operates offices in Los Angeles and San Diego. ExED works with approximately 100 charter schools, serving more than 44,000 students.

ExED supports new and existing charter schools, including financial services such as CFO advisory, accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, payroll processing, and public funding compliance; facility financing services; and data management support services. The services help our clients operate efficiently, build financial plans to meet short-term and long-term objectives, and secure affordable facilities, enabling school leaders to spend more time working to improve student achievement at their schools.

Position Overview

The Payroll and Retirement Associate will work on a team comprised of 16 team members who work with charter schools to ensure their success. This position offers a detail-oriented, highly organized professional the opportunity to apply payroll processing expertise in a unique way. We are looking for an experienced payroll professional who can take the lead in managing our payroll process and provide excellent customer service to our client schools.

Primary Responsibilities

Upload or key data, review, and process payroll for several client schools

Maintain accurate and current data in the payroll system and virtual personnel files

Determine eligibility and enrollment into CalSTRS and CalPERS retirement plans

Provide excellent customer service

Setup and process garnishment orders

Streamline payroll processes

Submit 401(k) and 403(b) employee deductions to vendors

Create and submit monthly CalSTRS and CalPERS retirement reports

Knowledge of quarterly payroll tax filings

Deposit SDI payments online to EDD

Assist in periodic training on payroll policies and procedures

Coordinate with accounting and other ExED staff when necessary

Assist schools with general payroll questions

Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree

3-5 years of payroll processing experience

Computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)

Team player with a demonstrated ability to initiate and maintain effective and cooperative professional relationships

Strong organizational skills; a self-starter who can prioritize and multi-task

Strong writing and communication skills

Strong analytical skills

Interest in and commitment to public education

Compensation

Compensation is commensurate with experience. Please be sure to submit your salary expectations on the application.

Salary Range: $60,000 - $70,000 annually

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, and a 403(b) retirement package.

We also offer a generous vacation, sick, and holiday allocation.

To Apply

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and salary expectations via our online application system at www.exed.org/careers.

ExED is an equal opportunity employer.

ExED will only consider candidates from the Southern CA area.