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Payroll Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Degenkolb Engineers

Payroll Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Payroll Manager will oversee the HR Coordinator supporting payroll administration and help ... Who We Are Founded in 1940 and headquartered in San Francisco, Degenkolb Engineers helps make ...

Degenkolb Engineers

Payroll Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Payroll Manager will oversee the HR Coordinator supporting payroll administration and help ... Who We Are Founded in 1940 and headquartered in San Francisco, Degenkolb Engineers helps make ...

Degenkolb Engineers

Payroll Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Payroll Manager will oversee the HR Coordinator supporting payroll administration and help ... Who We Are Founded in 1940 and headquartered in San Francisco, Degenkolb Engineers helps make ...

Degenkolb Engineers

Payroll Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Payroll Manager will oversee the HR Coordinator supporting payroll administration and help ... Who We Are Founded in 1940 and headquartered in San Francisco, Degenkolb Engineers helps make ...

Degenkolb Engineers

Payroll Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Payroll Manager will oversee the HR Coordinator supporting payroll administration and help ... Who We Are Founded in 1940 and headquartered in San Francisco, Degenkolb Engineers helps make ...

Degenkolb Engineers

Payroll Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Payroll Manager will oversee the HR Coordinator supporting payroll administration and help ... Who We Are Founded in 1940 and headquartered in San Francisco, Degenkolb Engineers helps make ...

Degenkolb Engineers

Payroll Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Payroll Manager will oversee the HR Coordinator supporting payroll administration and help ... Who We Are Founded in 1940 and headquartered in San Francisco, Degenkolb Engineers helps make ...

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Payroll Engineer information

What is a payroll engineer?

A Payroll Engineer is a technical professional responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining payroll systems and software used to process employee compensation. They work closely with HR and finance teams to ensure payroll processes are accurate, efficient, and compliant with regulations. Payroll Engineers often customize and integrate payroll solutions, troubleshoot issues, and implement automation to streamline payroll operations. Their work ensures that employees are paid correctly and on time while maintaining data security and compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a payroll engineer?

To thrive as a Payroll Engineer, you need strong analytical skills, in-depth knowledge of payroll processes, and a background in computer science or information systems. Familiarity with payroll software (such as ADP, Workday, or SAP), scripting languages, and data integration tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the accurate and efficient management of payroll systems, compliance with regulations, and seamless collaboration with HR and finance teams.

What are some common challenges payroll engineers face when implementing new payroll systems?

Payroll Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new payroll software with existing HR and accounting systems, ensuring compliance with ever-changing tax laws, and managing large volumes of sensitive employee data securely. They must also coordinate with multiple departments to gather accurate information and minimize errors during payroll runs. Strong problem-solving and communication skills are essential for addressing these complexities and ensuring a smooth transition during system upgrades or migrations.

What is the difference between Payroll Engineer vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll EngineerPayroll Specialist
Required CredentialsRelevant certifications (e.g., CPP, FPC), technical skillsPayroll certifications, attention to detail
Work EnvironmentFinance or HR departments, often in tech-driven companiesHR or finance teams, in various industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in companies with complex payroll systems, tech firmsCommon across all industries, more administrative
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding technical payroll roles, system managementPayroll processing, compliance, and record-keeping

While both roles handle payroll functions, Payroll Engineers focus on developing and maintaining payroll systems, often requiring technical skills and certifications. Payroll Specialists primarily manage payroll processing, ensuring accuracy and compliance. The roles complement each other in organizations with complex payroll needs.

Is payroll a good career path?

Payroll engineering involves managing employee compensation, tax compliance, and payroll systems, often requiring knowledge of accounting software and regulations. It offers stable employment with opportunities for advancement in finance or HR departments, and typically involves regular working hours. The role can be suitable for individuals interested in detail-oriented work and regulatory compliance.

What cities in California are hiring for Payroll Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Payroll Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Engineer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Workday Payroll & Time Engineer

Oakland, CA • On-site

Akidev Corporation
IT Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Akidev Corporationexternal

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Title: Workday Payroll & Time Engineer
local to Bay Area / Onsite

Job Summary

The Workday Payroll & Time Engineer is responsible for supporting, configuring, and optimizing Workday Payroll, Time Tracking, and related integrations. This role partners with HR, Payroll, and IT teams to ensure accurate payroll processing, time collection, system performance, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Configure and maintain Workday Payroll and Time Tracking solutions.

• Troubleshoot payroll, timekeeping, and integration issues.

• Monitor inbound and outbound integrations and resolve errors.

• Support payroll processing, testing, and system upgrades.

• Collaborate with business stakeholders on enhancements and process improvements.

• Create reports, documentation, and user support materials.

• Participate in go-live, stabilization, and change management activities.

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of Workday Payroll and/or Time Tracking experience.

• Strong understanding of payroll and workforce management processes.

• Experience with Workday integrations, reporting, and troubleshooting.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Workday Payroll and/or Time Tracking Certification.

• Experience with Workday Absence Management.

• Experience supporting retail or multi-site workforce environments.

• Knowledge of payroll compliance and workforce management best practices.

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