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

Solairus Aviation

Payroll Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

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 ...

Solairus Aviation, Inc.

Payroll Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$120 - $135/hr

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 ...

Solairus Aviation

Payroll Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

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 ...

Solairus Aviation

Payroll Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

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 ...

3 Bridge Networks

Payroll Manager

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

We are working with a growing organization seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to take ownership of payroll operations for a workforce of 500+ employees. This is a hands-on leadership role for ...

3 Bridge Networks

Payroll Manager

Sonoma, CA · On-site

We are working with a growing organization seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to take ownership of payroll operations for a workforce of 500+ employees. This is a hands-on leadership role for ...

Northbay Recruiter

Payroll Manager

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

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 ...

Mycopia

Payroll Manager/ HR Generalist

Sebastopol, CA · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Payroll Manager/ HR Generalist# Payroll Manager/ HR GeneralistHot JobSebastopol, CA 95472## OverviewSalary Range$70,000.00 - $90,000.00 Salary## DescriptionWho We AreGourmet Mushrooms, Inc. is ...

The Payroll Factory

Payroll Team Lead

Napa, CA · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

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 ...

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 ...

G&C Auto Body

Payroll Specialist

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$73K - $80K/yr

Crozat Management Services LLC (CMS) is a management company for G&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 ...

G&C Auto Body

Payroll Specialist

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Crozat Management Services LLC (CMS) is a management company for G&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 ...

G&C Auto Body, Inc.

Payroll Specialist

Santa Rosa, CA

$73K - $80K/yr

Crozat Management Services LLC (CMS) is a management company for G amp;C Auto Body and has an opening for an onsite Payroll Specialist based in Santa Rosa, CA. Visit to learn more about the company ...

Skywalker Holdings LLC

HRIS Specialist

Nicasio, CA · On-site

$39 - $42/hr

This role touches virtually every stage of the employee lifecycle, including recruiting, onboarding, employee changes, payroll, benefits, leaves, performance management, project employee renewals ...

SKYWALKER HOLDINGS LLC

HRIS Specialist

Nicasio, CA

$39 - $42/hr

This role touches virtually every stage of the employee lifecycle, including recruiting, onboarding, employee changes, payroll, benefits, leaves, performance management, project employee renewals ...

Skywalker Properties

HRIS Specialist

Nicasio, CA · On-site

$39 - $42/hr

This role touches virtually every stage of the employee lifecycle, including recruiting, onboarding, employee changes, payroll, benefits, leaves, performance management, project employee renewals ...

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

Payroll Manager information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$45.9K

$97.7K

$145.4K

How much do payroll manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll manager in Santa Rosa, CA is $97,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,600.00 and $113,700.00 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.
More about Payroll Manager 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 Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

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

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

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

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

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

Payroll Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Manager job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 66% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,739 per year, or $47 per hour.

Payroll Manager

Certified Employment Group Job Openings

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site, Remote

Contractor

Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage the complete biweekly payroll process for approximately 450-500 employees.

  • Ensure payroll is accurate, timely, and compliant with California and federal requirements.

  • Review and validate timekeeping, earnings, deductions, benefits, adjustments, and other payroll data.

Job description

Payroll Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time, Temporary 
Location: California — Remote, Hybrid, or Onsite 
Start: ASAP Potential opportunity for temp-to-hire for the right candidate.

Position Summary
We are seeking an expert-level Payroll Manager to independently manage and oversee biweekly payroll for approximately 450–500 employees.
This is a critical standalone payroll role within the organization. The successful candidate will be the primary internal payroll expert, so we must be certain this individual is extremely fluent in payroll best practices, California wage and hour laws, regulatory requirements, and complex payroll administration.
The ideal candidate will have significant hands-on payroll management experience and the ability to independently oversee a high-volume payroll operation with minimal supervision. Strong experience with HRIS, time management, payroll systems, Excel, California compliance, and 401(k) administration is required.

Key Responsibilities
· Serve as the organization’s primary payroll subject matter expert.
· Manage the complete biweekly payroll process for approximately 450–500 employees.
· Ensure payroll is accurate, timely, and compliant with California and federal requirements.
· Apply expert knowledge of California wage and hour laws and payroll best practices.
· Review and validate timekeeping, earnings, deductions, benefits, adjustments, and other payroll data.
· Administer payroll through HRIS, time management, and payroll systems.
· Manage complex payroll issues, corrections, off-cycle payments, bonuses, deductions, and special payroll transactions.
· Oversee and support time clock administration in partnership with the HR Management Systems Lead.
· Support 401(k) administration, including payroll deductions, contributions, reconciliation, and compliance.
· Coordinate and support 401(k) discrimination testing.
· Assist with annual Form 5500 administration.
· Prepare and coordinate required regulatory reporting, including EEO-1, California Pay Data Reporting, AAP, and VETS reporting.
· Support Workers’ Compensation audits and provide required payroll documentation.
· Respond to EDD claims, inquiries, and audits.
· Provide general ledger support related to payroll.
· Prepare and assist with payroll-related journal entries and reconciliations.
· Prepare payroll reports and analysis using Excel.


· Partner with HR, Finance, Benefits, and management on payroll-related matters.
· Interface with international team members and local payroll administrators in Europe as needed to provide payroll-related support and coordination.
· Support payroll audits and maintain appropriate documentation and internal controls.
· Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes, controls, and efficiency.
· Maintain strict confidentiality of employee payroll and compensation information.
Qualifications
· Expert-level payroll experience is required.
· Significant experience managing payroll, ideally at the Payroll Manager or senior payroll level.
· Demonstrated ability to independently manage payroll without an internal payroll team or additional payroll subject matter experts.
· Experience processing payroll for approximately 450–500 employees preferred.
· Extensive experience with biweekly payroll.
· Expert knowledge of California wage and hour laws and payroll compliance.
· Strong knowledge of federal payroll regulations and reporting requirements.
· Experience with HRIS, payroll, and time management systems.
· UKG Pro experience is highly preferred.
· Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including formulas, reporting, analysis, and reconciliation.
· Strong understanding of 401(k) administration and compliance, including discrimination testing and Form 5500 support.
· Experience with EEO-1, California Pay Data Reporting, AAP, and VETS reporting.
· Experience responding to EDD claims and audits.
· Experience supporting Workers’ Compensation audits.
· Knowledge of payroll-related general ledger processes and journal entries.
· Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
· Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
· Ability to work independently and meet strict payroll deadlines.
· Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with HR, Finance, Benefits, and international teams.
· Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
· Must be based in California.
· Must be available to start ASAP.


Ideal Candidate
An exceptionally strong, hands-on payroll professional who can serve as the company’s internal payroll expert. This individual must be highly fluent in California payroll law and best practices, capable of independently managing a 450–500 employee payroll, and comfortable taking ownership of compliance, reporting, benefits, audits, and payroll-related accounting functions.
Certified Employment Group logo

About Certified Employment Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Certified Employment Group started in San Francisco in 1963. Our cornerstone mission was, and remains, to provide ethical, caring service to each of our clients and employees. These values mean using technology to create efficiencies for our clients, expand our service offerings and enhance the level of service we can provide. As Northern California businesses have prospered, Certified has responded by opening branches to serve high-growth areas. We have expanded our services to include on-site management for major accounts, developing a web based interface and opening specialized divisions in Legal, Renewable Energy and Accounting. Certified remains independently owned, responsive, flexible and wholly committed to our original values. We believe this is the reason for our success. Industry rankings continually place Certified in the top ten percent based on sales!

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Emeryville, CA, US

Year founded

1963

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