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Payroll System Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

When you join RadNet as an Payroll Systems Analyst , you will be joining a dedicated team of ... Documents system functions, capabilities, configuration decisions, and business rules to support ...

When you join RadNet as an Payroll Systems Analyst , you will be joining a dedicated team of ... Documents system functions, capabilities, configuration decisions, and business rules to support ...

When you join RadNet as an Payroll Systems Analyst , you will be joining a dedicated team of ... Documents system functions, capabilities, configuration decisions, and business rules to support ...

Payroll Analyst II

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$82K - $118K/yr

Analyze and validate complex payroll system calculations * Partner with supervisors and managers to ensure that timecards are accurate * Utilize third party ticketing system to log and track payroll ...

Payroll Analyst

Brea, CA · On-site

$35 - $39.51/hr

Collaborate on payroll system upgrades, integrations, and configuration to ensure regional consistency. Support the rollout of standardized payroll workflows across the Americas. Support ...

Generate and analyze payroll reports to support decision-making and identify efficiency opportunities * Support system upgrades, testing, and implementation of new payroll features * Act as the ...

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Payroll System Analyst information

See California salary details

$17

$33

$53

How much do payroll system analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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 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 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 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.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Payroll System Analyst job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,876 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

$83K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Mercury Insurance rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 303 rated insurance


Job description

Position Summary:

The primary job function is responsible for the day-to-day work efforts relative to administration of the core system,  applications and/or reports. This includes supporting the team member base for the applications, performing miscellaneous configuration changes, assisting with developing projects, troubleshooting technical issues and creating/analyzing/delivering various ad-hoc reports. Also, able to manage within a rapidly changing work environment in accordance with the company’s mission and values.


An in-person interview may be required during the hiring process

State specific pay scales for this role are as follows:

$83,670 to $161,815 (NJ, NY, WA, HI, AK, MD, CT, RI, MA)

$76,064 to $147,104 (NV, OR, AZ, CO, WY, TX, ND, MN, MO, IL, WI, FL, GA, MI, OH, VA, PA, DE, VT, NH, ME)

$68,457 to $132,394 (UT, ID, MT, NM, SD, NE, KS, OK, IA, AR, LA, MS, AL, TN, KY, IN, SC, NC, WV)

In CA: Typical hiring range is $110,468 to $135,016

The expected base salary for this position will vary depending on a number of factors, including relevant experience, skills and location.


Essential Job Functions:

  • Lead and/or perform timely, relevant, and accurate reporting & analysis to facilitate decision-making toward the achievement of company goals, including review and audits standard and custom payroll reports before and after closing of the pay period including the off-cycle and quarter-end payroll runs.
  • Along with the Payroll manager, oversees the Payroll team in ensuring the all team members are paid accurately every pay period and that pay statements, statutory returns and reports are produced and validated in a timely maner. 
  • Perform as representative in the planning, development, and implementation of various systems.  Develop the expertise in the team use of automated applications and serves as the point of contact for end users on proposed process and application changes.
  • Provide tecnical support for new systems implementation, systems upgrades, and enhancements.
  • Trains and mentors team members in the Payroll Department on general department functions and processes and leads projects as required.
  • Proactively suggest areas of business process improvement. Propose solutions to problems and consider timeliness, effectiveness, and practicality in addressing customer needs.
  • Develop and maintain systems documentation on computer-based information systems; compile documentation for design changes and creation criteria for existing processes where applicable.
  • Participate in the testing and implementation of various core system upgrades and updates.
  • Utilize modern tools such as AI and AI agents to enhance the department’s automation, efficiency, throughput and accuracy.
  • Other functions may be assigned.

Education:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance required
  • FPC or CPP desired

Experience:

  • 6+ years experience in a senior payroll system analyst role
  • 4+ years experience of timekeeping system management and HRIS system

Knowledge and Skills:

  • Ability to pay constant attention to detail, accuracy, and organization.  
  • Ability to analyze data using analytic tools and provide recommendations
  • Has mathematical aptitude to calculate gross to net pay as well as reconcile payroll information.  
  • Has knowledge of established policies and procedures concerning administration of payroll process
  • Proficient in MS applications (Word, Outlook, Teams) and advanced excel for higher-level data analysis and data manipulation as well as in-depth knowledge of Excel tools and functions.
  • Maintains current knowledge of applicable laws and regulations affecting team member paychecks.
  • Has knowledge of general payroll process, including in-depth understanding of Company Payroll policy and procedures.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively and professionally communicate at all levels within and outside of the organization to explain processes/calculations and handle payroll issues. 
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, organizational and project management skills
  • Demonstrate ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential tasks and consistently meet deadlines in a dynamic work environment

Why choose a career at Mercury?

At Mercury, we have been guided by our purpose to help people reduce risk and overcome unexpected events for more than 60 years. We are one team with a common goal to help others. Everyone needs insurance and we can’t imagine a world without it.

Our team will encourage you to grow, make time to have fun, and work together to make great things happen. We embrace the strengths and values of each team member. We believe in having diverse perspectives where everyone is included, to serve customers from all walks of life.

We care about our people, and we mean it. We reward our talented professionals with a competitive salary, bonus potential, and a variety of benefits to help our team members reach their health, retirement, and professional goals.

Learn more about us here: https://www.mercuryinsurance.com/about/careers


We offer many great benefits, including:

  • Competitive compensation
  • Flexibility to work from anywhere in the United States for most positions
  • Paid time off (vacation time, sick time, 9 paid Company holidays, volunteer hours)
  • Incentive bonus programs (potential for holiday bonus, referral bonus, and performance-based bonus)
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and pet insurance
  • 401 (k) retirement savings plan with company match
  • Engaging work environment
  • Promotional opportunities
  • Education assistance
  • Professional and personal development opportunities
  • Company recognition program
  • Health and wellbeing resources, including free mental wellbeing therapy/coaching sessions, child and eldercare resources, and more

Mercury Insurance is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.


USD $83,670.00 - USD $161,815.00 /Yr.

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