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

The Payroll Factory

Payroll Team Lead

Napa, CA · On-site

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 ...

The Payroll Factory

Payroll Team Lead

Napa, CA · On-site

Payroll Team Lead Summary Title: Payroll Team Lead ID: 1317 Location: Napa, CA Department: Client Services More about this job > Description The JOB We are looking for a Lead Payroll Processor to ...

Solairus Aviation, Inc.

Payroll Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$120 - $135/hr

This role reports to and works closely with the Director, Total Rewards. The position also works ... The Payroll Manager also supports process improvements, system enhancements, payroll documentation ...

Solairus Aviation

Payroll Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

The Payroll Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of Solairus Aviation's payroll ... This role reports to and works closely with the Director, Total Rewards. The position also works ...

Solairus Aviation

Payroll Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

This role reports to and works closely with the Director, Total Rewards. The position also works ... The Payroll Manager also supports process improvements, system enhancements, payroll documentation ...

Solairus Aviation

Payroll Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

This role reports to and works closely with the Director, Total Rewards. The position also works ... The Payroll Manager also supports process improvements, system enhancements, payroll documentation ...

G&C Auto Body

Payroll Specialist

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$73K - $80K/yr

We are looking for an experienced payroll specialist to join our team. If you are an experienced payroll specialist that thrives in a fast paced, high volume environment, apply now! Benefits of the ...

G&C Auto Body, Inc.

Payroll Specialist

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$73K - $80K/yr

C Auto Body and has an opening for an onsite Payroll Specialist based in Santa Rosa, CA. Visit to learn more about the company and values that make us one of the best in the industry. We are looking ...

Northbay Recruiter

Payroll Manager

Santa Rosa, CA

The Payroll Manager will oversee the organization's nationwide payroll function, with responsibility for delivering accurate, timely, and compliant pay for both hourly and salaried employees. This ...

Wing & Barrel Ranch

Be Seen First

Payroll and Administrative Coordinator

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

The Payroll and Administrative Coordinator is primarily responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll while providing administrative support to the Human Resource Manager. The role ...

ProSearch Recruiting Group

Director Finance

Napa, CA

$160/hr

Director of Finance Napa Valley, California About Us We are an iconic, highly regarded winery in ... payroll, and cash management Lead the month-end and year-end close processes and ensure timely ...

Trilogy Spa Holdings

Spa Director

Sonoma, CA · On-site

Prepare bi-weekly payroll reports. Responsible for the review and approval of all bi-weekly payroll ... or as directed by the TRILOGY Corporate Team. * Ensure compliance with timely response and ...

Sonomacity

Finance Director

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

To plan, organize, direct and review the activities and operations of the Finance Department including utility billing, payroll and budget; to coordinate assigned activities with other departments ...

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All JobsPayroll JobsPayroll Director JobsPayroll Director Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Payroll Director information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$62.9K

$127.3K

$180.4K

How much do payroll director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll director in Santa Rosa, CA is $127,280.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,000.00 and $147,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a payroll director?

Payroll Directors are senior professionals responsible for overseeing an organization’s payroll operations, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time. They manage payroll staff, develop and implement payroll policies, ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations, and often collaborate with HR and finance departments. Payroll Directors also handle complex payroll issues, audit processes, and may be involved in selecting and maintaining payroll systems. Their role is crucial in maintaining employee satisfaction and organizational compliance.

What does a payroll director do?

A payroll director oversees the payroll department, ensures that accounting is accurate, and pays all payroll taxes for their organization. As a payroll director, your daily duties involve reconciling payroll ledgers, confirming tax laws and regulations are met, and managing employee compensation and benefits. A payroll director may also be responsible for hiring and training new employees.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Director, you need deep expertise in payroll processing, tax compliance, and relevant labor laws, typically backed by a degree in finance, accounting, or business and several years of payroll management experience. Familiarity with payroll software (such as ADP, SAP, or Workday), data analysis tools, and certifications like Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) are commonly required. Exceptional leadership, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set top candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate, timely payroll operations and minimizing legal and financial risks for the organization.

What are some common challenges a payroll director faces when managing multi-state or international payroll operations?

Payroll Directors overseeing multi-state or international operations often encounter challenges such as navigating varying tax laws, compliance regulations, and reporting requirements for each jurisdiction. They must stay updated on frequent legislative changes and ensure accuracy across different systems, which may require collaborating closely with legal, finance, and HR teams. Effective communication, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills are essential to mitigate compliance risks and streamline payroll processes across diverse locations.

What is the difference between Payroll Director vs Payroll Manager?

AspectPayroll DirectorPayroll Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire payroll department, develops policies, ensures compliance, manages teamManages payroll processing, supervises staff, ensures accurate and timely payroll
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance, payroll certifications (e.g., CPP)Usually requires similar credentials, payroll certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level, strategic focus, higher-level decision makingOperational focus, day-to-day payroll processing
Industry UsageCommon in large organizations and corporationsFound in organizations of various sizes, often as a supervisory role

The Payroll Director and Payroll Manager roles share many credentials and work environments, but the Director typically handles strategic oversight and policy development, while the Manager focuses on daily payroll operations. Both positions are essential in payroll departments, especially in larger organizations.

More about Payroll Director jobs

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 Director jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

For Payroll Director jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Payroll Director jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Payroll Director jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Payroll Director jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Payroll Director job openings:

Payroll Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Director job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,280 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Payroll Team Lead

The Payroll Factory

Napa, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 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, §125 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!

Apply