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Payroll Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

AppleOne

Payroll

Norco, CA

$35/hr

The Payroll Specialist will manage weekly in-house payroll for a large construction workforce, including certified payroll and prevailing wage reporting. This is a strong opportunity for someone who ...

Food 4 Less

Manager Payroll

Lodi, CA · On-site

The Payroll Manager oversees PAQ, Inc.'s payroll operations and payroll team, ensuring payroll is processed accurately, timely, and in compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour ...

Marina Landscape, Inc.

Payroll Supervisor

Orange, CA · On-site

$75 - $100/hr

Payroll Supervisor Salary: $75,000-$100,000 per year, DOE Employment Type: Full-Time In person Classification: Exempt Location: Orange, CA 92868 About the Position We are seeking an experienced and ...

Elite Team Offices

Payroll Specialist

Clovis, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Description The Payroll Specialist ensures employees are paid accurately, on time, and in compliance with all applicable payroll regulations. This role maintains the integrity of payroll and ...

Talent Group

Payroll Specialist

Oakdale, CA · On-site

$32 - $36/hr

Payroll Specialist Location: Oakdale, California Compensation: $32.00-$36.00 per hour DOE Schedule: Full Time | On Site Reports To: Controller FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary We are seeking ...

Paq, Inc.

Manager Payroll

Lodi, CA · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

The Payroll Manager oversees PAQ, Inc.'s payroll operations and payroll team, ensuring payroll is processed accurately, timely, and in compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour ...

Marina Landscape, Inc.

Payroll Supervisor

Orange, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Payroll Supervisor Salary: $75,000-$100,000 per year, DOE Employment Type: Full-Time In person Classification: Exempt Location: Orange, CA 92868 About the Position We are seeking an experienced and ...

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All JobsPayroll JobsPayroll Jobs in California

Payroll information

See California salary details

$14

$27

$38

How much do payroll jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll in California is $27.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $30.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is payroll?

Payroll refers to the process by which employers pay their employees for the work they have performed. This includes calculating wages, withholding taxes and deductions, distributing paychecks, and maintaining records of employee earnings. Payroll professionals ensure that all legal and regulatory requirements are met and that employees are paid accurately and on time. Managing payroll also involves handling benefits, overtime, bonuses, and compliance with labor laws.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a payroll specialist?

To thrive as a Payroll Specialist, you need strong numerical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of payroll laws and regulations, typically supported by a degree in accounting or a related field. Proficiency with payroll software (such as ADP, Paychex, or QuickBooks) and knowledge of HRIS systems and tax compliance are essential. Excellent organizational skills, discretion, and effective communication help you handle sensitive data and resolve employee inquiries efficiently. These skills ensure accurate and timely payroll processing, compliance with legal requirements, and employee satisfaction.

What are the most common challenges faced by payroll professionals, and how can they be managed effectively?

Payroll professionals often encounter challenges such as staying current with ever-changing tax laws, managing tight deadlines for payroll processing, and ensuring absolute accuracy to avoid costly errors. Effective management involves maintaining up-to-date knowledge of regulations, leveraging reliable payroll software, and developing strong organizational habits. Regular communication with HR and finance teams also helps identify and resolve discrepancies early, fostering a smooth payroll cycle.

What is the difference between Payroll vs Bookkeeper?

AspectPayrollBookkeeper
Primary RoleCalculates employee wages, manages tax deductions, and processes paymentsMaintains financial records, records transactions, and manages accounts
Required CredentialsKnowledge of payroll laws, payroll software, sometimes certifications like CPPBasic accounting knowledge, often bookkeeping certifications
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often HR or finance departmentsOffice environment, accounting or finance departments
Industry UsageCommonly used in HR, finance, and payroll service providersUsed across small to large businesses for financial record-keeping

Payroll specialists focus on employee compensation, tax deductions, and compliance, while bookkeepers handle overall financial record-keeping and transaction management. Both roles are essential for business financial health but serve different functions within the finance department.

How do you become a payroll?

To become a payroll professional, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of payroll processes, tax regulations, and payroll software. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in accounting or human resources, and certifications such as the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) can enhance job prospects.

Is payroll a good career?

Payroll is a stable career that involves processing employee compensation, managing tax deductions, and ensuring compliance with regulations. It requires attention to detail, proficiency with payroll software, and often a basic understanding of accounting or HR principles. The role can offer steady employment and opportunities for advancement in finance or human resources.

Is payroll a stressful job?

Payroll professionals are responsible for accurately processing employee compensation and ensuring compliance with tax laws, which can involve tight deadlines and attention to detail. The job can be stressful during busy periods such as payroll processing deadlines or audits, but effective organization and familiarity with payroll software can help manage workload and reduce stress.
More about Payroll jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in California?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Payroll jobs?

Cities in California with the most Payroll job openings:

Payroll jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 88% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,236 per year, or $27 per hour.

Payroll Specialist

Urth Payroll Services, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Duties

  • Key Responsibilities
  • Manage full-cycle payroll processing for 500+ employees on a bi-weekly basis.
  • Process multi-state payroll while ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local wage and hour laws.
  • Oversee payroll tax filings, reporting, reconciliations, quarter-end and year-end processing.
  • Administer employee deductions, garnishments, benefits, wage assignments, and other payroll-related transactions.
  • Review, audit, and process meal and rest period premium payments and labor compliance violations.
  • Generate, analyze, and distribute payroll reports to Human Resources, Finance, and senior leadership.
  • Partner closely with Human Resources to ensure accurate processing of new hires, terminations, pay rate changes, promotions, leaves of absence, benefits, and employee status changes.
  • Ensure payroll records are maintained in compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
  • Support internal and external payroll audits and recommend process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy.
  • Serve as the primary payroll subject matter expert and point of contact for payroll-related inquiries.

Qualifications

  • Minimum 2+ years of progressive payroll experience
  • Experience processing payroll for 500+ employees.
  • Extensive knowledge of multi-state payroll processing, payroll tax regulations, wage and hour laws, and labor compliance requirements.
  • Experience managing payroll deductions, garnishments, reconciliations, audits, and reporting.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and payroll reporting.
  • Advanced ADP Workforce Now Payroll experience required.
  • Bilingual Spanish/English required, with strong verbal and written communication skills in both languages.
  • Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with Human Resources, Finance, and Operations in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience managing multi-location payroll in a hospitality, restaurant, retail, or multi-unit environment preferred.

Physical Requirements:

  • The ability to lift up 25 pounds regularly & un-assisted
  • The ability to respond quickly to sounds
  • The ability to move safely over uneven terrain or in confined spaces
  • The ability to safely climb ladders