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Payroll System Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Robert Half

Payroll Analyst

Roseville, CA · On-site

$37 - $40/hr

The person in this role will help strengthen payroll operations, support payroll system-related ... Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify discrepancies and resolve ...

PrideStaff Financial

Payroll Coordinator

Hanford, CA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Analyze and balance hours between Time and Attendance System and Payroll system. * Analyze and interpret garnishments (Federal and State) received from agencies or courts. Provide appropriate ...

PrideStaff Financial

Payroll Coordinator

Hanford, CA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Analyze and balance hours between Time and Attendance System and Payroll system. * Analyze and interpret garnishments (Federal and State) received from agencies or courts. Provide appropriate ...

Dialpad

Sr. Payroll Analyst

Bay, AR · On-site

Your role As a Sr. Payroll Analyst, you'll own end-to-end US and international payroll processing ... In addition, you'll help bring continuous process improvements, seamless system integrations, and ...

New

Dialpad

Sr. Payroll Analyst

San Ramon, CA

Unlike legacy systems built to route and answer, or standalone agentic bot vendors built to deflect ... Your role As a Sr. Payroll Analyst, you'll own end-to-end US and international payroll processing ...

New

Dialpad

Sr. Payroll Analyst

San Ramon, CA · On-site

Unlike legacy systems built to route and answer, or standalone agentic bot vendors built to deflect ... Your role As a Sr. Payroll Analyst, you'll own end-to-end US and international payroll processing ...

Mitsubishi Electric

HRIS Analyst

Cypress, CA · On-site

The HRIS Analyst partners closely with, Information Technology, Payroll, Finance, Legal, and external vendors to support strategic business initiatives, deliver actionable workforce analytics, and ...

Mitsubishi Electric US, Inc.

HRIS Analyst

Cypress, CA · On-site

The HRIS Analyst partners closely with, Information Technology, Payroll, Finance, Legal, and external vendors to support strategic business initiatives, deliver actionable workforce analytics, and ...

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Payroll System Analyst information

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How much do payroll system analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll system analyst in California is $33.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.35 and $37.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a payroll system analyst?

A Payroll System Analyst is a professional who manages, analyzes, and improves payroll systems within an organization. They ensure that employee compensation is processed accurately and efficiently, often working with payroll software and databases. Their job includes troubleshooting system issues, implementing updates, and ensuring compliance with tax laws and company policies. Payroll System Analysts act as a bridge between HR, finance, and IT departments to optimize payroll operations.

How does a payroll system analyst typically collaborate with HR and Finance departments?

A Payroll System Analyst works closely with both HR and Finance teams to ensure accurate and compliant payroll processing. They often translate HR policies and financial regulations into system configurations, troubleshoot discrepancies, and facilitate data flow between departments. Regular meetings and cross-functional projects are common, as Payroll System Analysts play a key role in implementing system upgrades and resolving payroll-related issues. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential for aligning system functionality with organizational needs.

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

To thrive as a Payroll System Analyst, you need a strong background in payroll processing, data analysis, and HR systems, typically supported by a degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Familiarity with payroll software such as ADP, SAP, Oracle, or Workday, and certifications like CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) are commonly expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help you effectively resolve discrepancies and collaborate across departments. These skills ensure accurate payroll operations, compliance with regulations, and efficient system management within organizations.

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

AspectPayroll System AnalystPayroll Specialist
Primary FocusAnalyzing and optimizing payroll systems and processesProcessing payroll and ensuring accurate employee payments
Required SkillsSystem analysis, troubleshooting, technical proficiencyPayroll processing, compliance, data entry
CertificationsPayroll certifications, sometimes systems-specificPayroll certifications, HR certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentHR or finance departments, IT support teamsPayroll or HR departments, accounting teams

The Payroll System Analyst primarily focuses on analyzing and improving payroll systems, requiring technical skills and system knowledge. In contrast, the Payroll Specialist handles day-to-day payroll processing and employee payments. Both roles are essential in payroll operations but differ in scope and technical involvement.

How much do payroll system analysts make?

Payroll system analysts in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $65,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced analysts with specialized skills can earn over $100,000 annually. Knowledge of payroll software and data analysis is often required for these positions.

Is payroll system analysis a good career?

Payroll System Analysts play a key role in managing and optimizing payroll processes, often requiring knowledge of payroll software, data analysis, and compliance standards. The career offers opportunities for specialization, certification, and advancement within finance or HR departments, with steady demand across various industries.

What are popular job titles related to Payroll System Analyst jobs in California?

For Payroll System Analyst jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Payroll System Analyst jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Payroll System Analyst jobs in California are:

Payroll System Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll System Analyst job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,876 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

Senior Technical Payroll Analyst II - ADP System Analyst

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

IT

Rocket Lab's IT team is responsible for how our global teams access information and run operations across our computer systems, networks, and devices. Our hardworking IT team is a group of flexible problem-solvers working in a fast-paced environment but who also thrive under the challenge of supporting all of our proprietary systems and people, from finance to launch operations.

SENIOR TECHNICAL PAYROLL ANALYST II - ADP SYSTEM ANALYST

Based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Technical Payroll Analyst II will help optimize payroll processes for our domestic and international workforce. This role is pivotal in ensuring payroll accuracy, compliance, and seamless technical integrations across systems, including APIs. While this position does not involve direct payroll processing, it provides essential support to payroll teams and operations. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with ADP Workforce Now, ADP Workforce Manager, and Workday, along with a proven ability to support payroll operations for mid-to-large companies. A strong understanding of SQL, API integrations, and people operations, benefits, finance, and accounting will be critical to success in this role.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Serve as technical support for ADP Workforce Now and ADP Workforce Manager.
  • Manage user access, security roles, permission structures, and assistance requests within ADP Workforce Now to ensure data integrity and confidentiality.
  • Document technical payroll processes, procedures, log files, and change controls in compliance with SOX requirements.
  • Participate in change management processes, including testing system configurations and auditing pre/post-deployment system changes to ensure compliance with federal and statutory payroll requirements.
  • Design, create, and run custom and ad-hoc reports in ADP; analyze payroll data for accuracy and trends using SQL.
  • Develop, test, and maintain integrations between ADP, Workday, and other systems; troubleshoot and resolve integration errors, with a strong focus on API development and management.
  • Support end-to-end payroll operations for domestic and international employees, ensuring timely and accurate payments.
  • Participate in payroll module implementations, system upgrades, and special projects, including mergers and acquisitions.
  • Collaborate with ADP and third-party payroll vendors to manage service tickets, resolve issues, and evaluate new systems or partners.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 8+ years of experience and a bachelor's degree, or equivalent years of work experience (12+ years of total work experience).
  • Hands-on experience with ADP Workforce Now, ADP Workforce Manager, and technical expertise with HCM systems (e.g., Oracle, Workday, UKG) and integrations.
  • Strong knowledge and experience with SQL for data analysis and reporting.
  • Proven experience with API development and troubleshooting for system integrations.
  • Proven experience with global payroll operations, tax filings, and multi-currency processing.
  • Knowledge of SOX compliance, creating custom reports in ADP, and supporting internal and external audits.
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot integration issues, manage vendor relationships, and support payroll system implementations and upgrades.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Expertise in Workday integrations.
  • Experience with Flexspring integrations.
  • Proficiency in developing and configuring APIs.
  • Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or relevant Workday certifications.
  • Familiarity with project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall) and tools (e.g., Jira).
  • Experience with other HRIS, payroll, or ADP platforms (e.g., Lyric, Celergo, GlobalView).

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

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