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Payroll Reporting Analyst Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Payroll Manager

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

... reporting, reconciliations, and audit preparation. Serving as the go-to resource for payroll ... The successful candidate will be detail-oriented, analytical, organized, and discreet, with strong ...

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Process and maintain weekly Certified Payroll Reporting (CPR) requirements * Gather requested data ... analytical skills with the ability to identify and resolve problems in a timely manner · Ability ...

Assists in the analysis of Store reports to evaluate controllable expenses and overall Store ... Controls payroll hours to plan, as the primary controllable expense, as well as adjusting to ...

Assists in the analysis of Store reports to evaluate controllable expenses and overall Store ... Controls payroll hours to plan, as the primary controllable expense, as well as adjusting to ...

Assists in the analysis of Store reports to evaluate controllable expenses and overall Store ... Controls payroll hours to plan, as the primary controllable expense, as well as adjusting to ...

Assists in the analysis of Store reports to evaluate controllable expenses and overall Store ... Controls payroll hours to plan, as the primary controllable expense, as well as adjusting to ...

Assists in the analysis of Store reports to evaluate controllable expenses and overall Store ... Controls payroll hours to plan, as the primary controllable expense, as well as adjusting to ...

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Payroll Reporting Analyst information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$18

$37

$58

How much do payroll reporting analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll reporting analyst in Santa Rosa, CA is $37.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.18 and $41.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a payroll reporting analyst do?

A Payroll Reporting Analyst is responsible for managing and analyzing payroll data to ensure accuracy and compliance with company policies and government regulations. They prepare detailed reports on payroll expenses, taxes, and deductions, and often work closely with HR and finance departments. Their role involves identifying discrepancies, improving payroll processes, and assisting with audits. Payroll Reporting Analysts also help ensure timely and accurate payroll processing for all employees.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Reporting Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of payroll processes, and typically a degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. Familiarity with payroll software (such as ADP or SAP), advanced Excel skills, and knowledge of compliance regulations are essential technical requirements. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These qualifications ensure accurate payroll reporting, regulatory compliance, and clear collaboration across departments.

What are some common challenges faced by payroll reporting analysts, and how can they be addressed?

Payroll Reporting Analysts often encounter challenges such as managing complex data from multiple sources, ensuring compliance with evolving tax regulations, and meeting tight reporting deadlines. Staying up-to-date with payroll software updates and regulatory changes is essential. Building strong communication with HR, finance, and IT teams helps resolve discrepancies promptly and improves data accuracy. Adopting automation tools and maintaining thorough documentation can also streamline processes and reduce errors, making the role more manageable.

What is the difference between Payroll Reporting Analyst vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll Reporting AnalystPayroll Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in accounting, finance, or related field; certifications like CPP or FPC are commonOften requires similar credentials; certifications like CPP or FPC are also valued
Work EnvironmentFocuses on analyzing payroll data, preparing reports, and ensuring complianceHandles payroll processing, data entry, and employee inquiries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in finance, HR, and payroll departments across various industriesPrimarily in HR and payroll departments within organizations of all sizes

The Payroll Reporting Analyst primarily focuses on analyzing payroll data, generating reports, and ensuring compliance, while the Payroll Specialist handles payroll processing and employee-related inquiries. Both roles require similar credentials and often work within the same industry environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Are payroll reporting analysts in demand?

Payroll reporting analysts are in demand due to the ongoing need for accurate payroll processing and compliance with tax regulations. Organizations seek professionals skilled in payroll systems, data analysis, and reporting tools like Excel or payroll software to ensure efficient financial operations.

Is a payroll reporting analyst a stressful job?

A payroll reporting analyst's job can be stressful during peak periods such as payroll processing deadlines or audits, as accuracy and timeliness are critical. The role requires attention to detail, proficiency with payroll systems, and adherence to regulations, which can contribute to work pressure but also offers structured schedules and clear responsibilities. Overall, stress levels depend on workload, organizational support, and individual coping skills.

What are popular job titles related to Payroll Reporting Analyst jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Payroll Reporting Analyst job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,411 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Contractor

Retirement

Posted 5 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