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Payroll Processing Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

LHH US

Payroll Specialist

Whittier, CA · On-site

$30 - $34/hr

Process weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly payroll accurately and on schedule * Audit timecards, pay ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Champions Group Holdings

Payroll Supervisor

Brea, CA

$115K - $120K/yr

Process payroll with various pay types, including piece-rate work, commissions, and bonuses ... Associate's or BS degree in Business, Accounting or Finance preferred. * Relevant certification (e ...

Balanced Body Inc

Payroll Specialist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Process bi-weekly and off-cycle payrolls accurately and timely for 400+ multi-state employees ... Associate's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. * Payroll ...

Revolution Medicines

Payroll Manager

Redwood City, CA · Hybrid

Reporting to the Associate Director, Payroll, the Payroll Manager will be responsible for ensuring accurate, timely and compliant payroll processing from start to finish. This position is ideal for a ...

Balanced Body Inc

Payroll Specialist

Sacramento, CA

$28 - $35/hr

Process bi-weekly and off-cycle payrolls accurately and timely for 400+ multi-state employees ... Associate's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. * Payroll ...

PRIDE Industries

Senior Payroll Analyst

Roseville, CA · On-site

$33 - $38/hr

D.; Associate's Degree in Business Administration preferred; • Five or more years of payroll processing experience; • Ability to handle non-routine issues or new issues and resolve; • ...

PRIDE Industries

Senior Payroll Analyst

Roseville, CA · On-site

$24.72 - $36.05/hr

D.; Associate's Degree in Business Administration preferred; • Five or more years of payroll processing experience; • Ability to handle non-routine issues or new issues and resolve; • ...

Balanced Body Inc

Payroll Specialist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Process bi-weekly and off-cycle payrolls accurately and timely for 400+ multi-state employees ... Associate's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. * Payroll ...

Champions Group Holdings

Payroll Supervisor

Brea, CA · On-site

$115K - $120K/yr

Process payroll with various pay types, including piece-rate work, commissions, and bonuses ... Associate's or BS degree in Business, Accounting or Finance preferred. * Relevant certification (e ...

LHH US

Payroll Accountant

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

This role blends payroll processing, accounting support, and administrative coordination, and ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

LHH US

Payroll Accountant

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

This role blends payroll processing, accounting support, and administrative coordination, and ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Robinson Pharma, Inc

Payroll Specialist

Santa Ana, CA

$28 - $34/hr

Process biweekly payroll for 900+ employees using ADP Workforce Now. * Maintain employee payroll ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Human Resources, Business Administration, or ...

TalentBurst, Inc.

Sr Payroll Analyst

Brea, CA · On-site

$40.98/hr

... to associates. This role involves leading a team, managing payroll processes, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations, and providing strategic insights to improve payroll operations.

Norton Packaging, Inc.

Payroll Specialist

Hayward, CA

$32 - $38/hr

... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered • Minimum 3-5 years of payroll processing ...

Envision Motors of Milpitas

HR/Payroll Coordinator

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $32.75/hr

Process payroll accurately and on schedule, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is ...

Opto-Knowledge Systems Inc

Payroll Specialist

Torrance, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

... Associate's degree or higher in Accounting, Business, Finance, or related field. Equivalent work experience considered. Experience 1-3 years of payroll processing experience, preferably multi-state.

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All JobsPayroll Processing Associate JobsPayroll Processing Associate Jobs in California

Payroll Processing Associate information

See California salary details

$14

$25

$49

How much do payroll processing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll processing associate in California is $25.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $27.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Payroll Processing Associate do?

A Payroll Processing Associate is responsible for handling the accurate and timely processing of employee payroll. This includes collecting timesheets, calculating wages, ensuring compliance with tax laws, and distributing paychecks or direct deposits. They also address payroll discrepancies, answer employee questions about their pay, and maintain confidential payroll records. Their role is essential to ensure employees are paid correctly and on schedule.

Is payroll more HR or accounting?

Payroll processing associates primarily work within the payroll or finance department, focusing on calculating employee wages, deductions, and ensuring timely payments. While payroll involves understanding HR policies and compliance, it is generally considered part of the accounting or finance functions due to its emphasis on financial accuracy and record-keeping. Skills in accounting software and knowledge of tax regulations are often important in this role.

What are some common challenges Payroll Processing Associates face, and how can they effectively manage them?

Payroll Processing Associates often encounter challenges such as handling last-minute changes to employee timesheets, staying compliant with evolving tax regulations, and ensuring timely and accurate payroll delivery. Effective management involves maintaining strong organizational skills, regularly updating knowledge on payroll laws, and leveraging payroll software to automate and double-check calculations. Collaborating closely with HR and accounting departments also helps quickly resolve discrepancies and maintain smooth payroll operations.

What is the highest paying job in payroll?

The highest paying roles in payroll typically include Payroll Manager, Payroll Director, or Payroll Vice President, which involve overseeing payroll operations and strategy. These positions often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of payroll systems and compliance, and they can offer salaries significantly higher than entry-level payroll processing roles.

What is the difference between Payroll Processing Associate vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll Processing AssociatePayroll Specialist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationTypically requires certification or relevant payroll certifications
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often in HR or finance departmentsOffice environment, often in HR, finance, or payroll departments
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in various industries for entry-level payroll tasksUsed across industries, often with more complex payroll responsibilities
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched for entry-level payroll roles or support positionsCompared for more advanced payroll duties and responsibilities

The Payroll Processing Associate typically handles basic payroll tasks such as data entry and processing, often as an entry-level role. In contrast, the Payroll Specialist usually has more advanced responsibilities, including compliance and troubleshooting. Both roles are essential in payroll operations, but the Payroll Specialist generally requires more experience or certifications.

What does a payroll associate do?

A payroll processing associate is responsible for calculating employee wages, ensuring accurate and timely payroll disbursements, and maintaining payroll records. They often use payroll software and need attention to detail to comply with tax laws and company policies.

What is the salary of payroll processing?

The salary of a Payroll Processing Associate typically ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with certifications can earn higher wages. The role often requires familiarity with payroll software and attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Payroll Processing Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Payroll Processing Associate, you need a solid understanding of payroll regulations, attention to detail, and experience with payroll procedures, often supported by a degree in accounting or business. Proficiency with payroll software (such as ADP or Paychex), Microsoft Excel, and knowledge of tax compliance are typically required. Strong organizational skills, discretion, and effective communication help in managing sensitive information and collaborating with colleagues. These skills ensure accurate, timely payroll processing while maintaining compliance and safeguarding confidential employee data.
What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll Processing jobs in California? The most popular types of Payroll Processing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Payroll Processing Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Payroll Processing Associate job openings:
Payroll Processing Associate jobs near you

Payroll Specialist

LHH US

Whittier, CA • On-site

$30 - $34/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Payroll Technician (Contract-to-Hire)
Location: Whittier, CA
Schedule: On-site | Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Compensation: $30-$34/hour
Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire
Our client is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Technician to play a key role in ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely payroll processing for a workforce of 1,300+ employees across multiple states. This position requires strong payroll expertise and a solid understanding of regulations impacting both union and non-union employee populations.
The ideal candidate is highly meticulous, exercises sound judgment, and understands the importance of payroll accuracy-recognizing that each paycheck directly impacts employees.
Key Responsibilities
  • Process weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly payroll accurately and on schedule
  • Audit timecards, pay codes, PTO, and sick time to ensure data integrity
  • Process new hires, terminations, retro pay, commissions, and bonuses
  • Handle payroll corrections, off-cycle checks, and pay adjustments
  • Ensure compliance with FLSA, wage and hour laws, and company policies
  • Respond to employee payroll and timekeeping inquiries with professionalism
  • Support payroll reporting, audits, and record retention requirements
  • Partner with HR to investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies
  • Manage end-to-end garnishment processing (setup, maintenance, and terminations)
  • Maintain strict confidentiality of payroll and employee data
  • Contribute to process improvement initiatives
Required Qualifications
  • 5+ years of multi-state payroll processing experience
  • Strong knowledge of FLSA, overtime calculations, and wage and hour laws
  • High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to meet deadlines
  • Clear and professional communication skills (written and verbal)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Dayforce payroll systems
  • Experience with complex or component-based pay structures
  • Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation
  • Experience supporting union payroll populations
Additional Requirements
  • Must be a local candidate able to work on-site
  • Stable work history (no frequent job changes preferred)
  • Experience in a mid-to-large size organization (~1,000+ employees) strongly preferred
Please click apply now and submit your resume. I will call you immediately to discuss this position. ***Local Los Angeles residents only will be considered. Thank you, Letty Stuard, LHH Recruitment Solutions, Sr. Talent Acquisition Specialist, letty.stuard@ lhh.com
Benefit offerings include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits, and 401K plan. Our program provides employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. Available paid leave may include Paid Sick Leave, where required by law; any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law; and Holiday pay upon meeting eligibility criteria.
Pay Details: $30.00 to $34.00 per hour
Search managed by: Letty Stuard
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.lhh.com/us/en/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.