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Payroll Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Payroll Manager Location: Los Angeles, CA (Koreatown) - Onsite Compensation: $120,000 - $140,000 annually Benefits: This role is eligible for medical, dental, vision and 401k. Position Summary ...

Payroll Manager

Culver City, CA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

We are seeking a Payroll Manager to lead multi-state, union, and prevailing wage payroll operations while ensuring payroll accuracy, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. This role ...

Payroll Manager

Paramount, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

We are looking for a great part-time Payroll Manager with SNF experience. * The primary purpose of your job position is to administer and perform payroll functions to the facility in accordance with ...

Payroll Manager

Culver City, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $130K/yr

Description & Requirements Payroll Manager Hybrid-Culver City Your next great opportunity starts here! If you're looking for a role where you can make a meaningful impact, collaborate with industry ...

About the Role ID.me is seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to own end-to-end payroll operations for our growing, multi-state workforce. This role ensures accurate, timely, and compliant payroll ...

New

We are looking for a great Full Time Payroll Manager with SNF experience. * The primary purpose of your job position is to administer and perform payroll functions to the facility in accordance with ...

Payroll Manager

Burbank, CA · On-site

$161K/yr

Payroll Manager to help shape the future of payroll as Borates transitions into a standalone organisation. This isn't a role where you'll simply inherit an established function, you'll help build it.

Vast is looking for a Payroll Manager , reporting to the Director, Finance, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated ...

Payroll Manager

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

The Payroll Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll. This position is responsible for overseeing all payroll functions, including payroll calculations ...

Payroll Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

The Payroll Manager should be an expert in payroll administration with experience with ADP's TotalSource PEO Platform and proven knowledge necessary to ensure compliance with relevant federal and ...

Overview The Payroll Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of Solairus Aviation's payroll operations, including accurate and timely payroll processing across all 50 states for hourly ...

The Payroll Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of Solairus Aviation's payroll operations, including accurate and timely payroll processing across all 50 states for hourly, salaried ...

Payroll Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85 - $95/hr

Payroll Manager Reports To: Director of Payroll & Benefits Status: Full-Time, Exempt Location: Los Angeles (Little Tokyo Office) Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 6:00pm (Hybrid work ...

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Showing results 1-20

Payroll Manager information

See California salary details

$41.5K

$88.2K

$131.3K

How much do payroll manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll manager in California is $88,225.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,100.00 and $102,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a payroll manager?

A payroll manager works in the payroll or HR department of a business or organization and manages the payroll process for all employees and contractors. Payroll managers are responsible for ensuring that all employees are paid on time, in the correct amounts, and for issuing pay stubs. They are also responsible for compiling payroll information and managing the pre-payroll preparation process. Additionally, payroll managers complete records for earnings, taxes, deductions, leave, benefits and disability, and maintain records for the organization and tax reporting. Payroll managers may also oversee recruiting, hiring, training and evaluating of payroll department staff members.

What does a payroll manager do?

A Payroll Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing an organization's payroll functions. This includes ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time, maintaining payroll records, and complying with relevant tax laws and regulations. Payroll Managers also handle payroll reporting, resolve payroll discrepancies, and may supervise payroll staff. Their role is crucial in maintaining employee satisfaction and legal compliance within a company.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Manager, you need strong knowledge of payroll regulations, tax laws, and accounting principles, often backed by a degree in finance or accounting and relevant experience. Familiarity with payroll software (such as ADP or Paychex), HR information systems, and professional certifications like CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) are typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help Payroll Managers stand out. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring accurate payroll processing, regulatory compliance, and effective team leadership.

How does a payroll manager typically collaborate with other departments to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing?

Payroll Managers regularly coordinate with Human Resources and Finance teams to gather accurate employee data, such as new hires, terminations, benefit deductions, and salary changes. They also work closely with IT to ensure payroll systems are functioning correctly and with compliance teams to meet legal and tax requirements. Effective communication and collaboration are essential for resolving discrepancies quickly and maintaining seamless payroll cycles. This cross-departmental interaction offers Payroll Managers a comprehensive view of organizational operations and strengthens their problem-solving skills.

What is the difference between Payroll Manager vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll ManagerPayroll Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field; certifications like CPP or FPC are commonSimilar credentials; often holds CPP or FPC certifications, with less emphasis on management experience
Work EnvironmentOversees payroll departments, manages teams, and collaborates with HR and financePerforms payroll processing, data entry, and compliance tasks primarily independently or in small teams
Employer & Industry UsageFound in mid to large organizations across various industriesCommon in organizations of all sizes, especially in HR or finance departments

The main difference between a Payroll Manager and a Payroll Specialist lies in their responsibilities and scope. Payroll Managers oversee payroll operations, manage teams, and ensure compliance at a strategic level, while Payroll Specialists focus on processing payroll data accurately and efficiently. Both roles require similar credentials, but the Payroll Manager's role involves more leadership and oversight.

Is a payroll manager a hard job?

A payroll manager's job involves overseeing payroll processing, ensuring accuracy, compliance with tax laws, and managing payroll systems, which requires attention to detail and knowledge of relevant regulations. The role can be demanding during peak periods such as month-end or year-end, and it often requires strong organizational and communication skills. Certification and experience with payroll software are beneficial for managing the workload effectively.

What do payroll managers earn?

Payroll managers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, location, and company size. They are responsible for overseeing payroll processing, ensuring compliance with regulations, and often use payroll software or systems to manage employee compensation accurately.

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 Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Payroll Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,225 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Payroll Manager position in Orange County, CA We are a large, growing Mechanical Contractor in CA. We are seeking a Payroll Manager with extensive experience. This is a permanent position with a great compensation and benefits package.

Responsibilities: Manage Payroll team Work with HR, Billing, AP, and other Management teams Prepare reports Requirements: 8+ years of Payroll experience 3+ years of Payroll Management experience Technical experience in Timberline, MS Office. Experience handling Union Contracts. Knowledge of Tax laws.

Stable work-history Local in Orange County


Gulfstream Strategic Placements logo

About Gulfstream Strategic Placements

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Gulfstream Strategic Placements, based in Los Angeles, CA, US, is a prominent company specializing in the recruitment and executive search industry. Their area of specialty lies mainly in the construction industry. With a keen eye for talent and a focus on fulfilling employers' talent needs, Gulfstream Strategic Placements is an industry leader connecting various businesses with well-suited, skilled professionals. They take great pride in their long-standing reputation for delivering quality candidates that help businesses thrive.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Corona, CA, US

Year founded

2014

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