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Payroll Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Reed Family Companies

Payroll Specialist

Modesto, CA · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

Description "OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY" We are growing and in need of a Payroll Specialist for the Reed Family of Companies. Come join a team with a great company culture that offers competitive ...

Reed Family Companies

Payroll Specialist

Modesto, CA · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

"OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY" We are growing and in need of a Payroll Specialist for the Reed Family of Companies. Come join a team with a great company culture that offers competitive wages and ...

Reed Family Companies

Payroll Specialist

Modesto, CA · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

"OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY" We are growing and in need of a Payroll Specialist for the Reed Family of Companies. Come join a team with a great company culture that offers competitive wages and ...

American Advanced Management

Payroll Clerk

Modesto, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

The Payroll Clerk coordinates special projects as directed and prioritizes work appropriately. The PC performs routine tasks such as updating spreadsheets, recruitment and interviews, employment ...

American Advanced Management

Payroll Clerk

Modesto, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

The Payroll Clerk coordinates special projects as directed and prioritizes work appropriately. The PC performs routine tasks such as updating spreadsheets, recruitment and interviews, employment ...

Reed Family Companies

Payroll Specialist

Modesto, CA · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

This position is responsible for payroll entry in accordance with company policy. Compile and post employee time and payroll data. Compute and post wages, time worked, production, and commission.

LHH US

Payroll Specialist

Oakdale, CA

$34 - $38/hr

The ideal candidate will have 3 years of payroll processing experience. The right candidate will be comfortable managing the payroll for the entire organization and have experience handling an in ...

LHH US

Payroll Specialist

Oakdale, CA

$34 - $38/hr

The ideal candidate will have 3 years of payroll processing experience. The right candidate will be comfortable managing the payroll for the entire organization and have experience handling an in ...

AMERICAN ADVANCED MANAGEMENT

Payroll Clerk

Modesto, CA

$21 - $24/hr

The Payroll Clerk coordinates special projects as directed and prioritizes work appropriately. The PC performs routine tasks such as updating spreadsheets, recruitment and interviews, employment ...

BBSI

Payroll Specialist

Modesto, CA · On-site

$24.75 - $33.75/hr

We offer outsourced HR, risk consultation, payroll administration and recruiting to small-and medium-sized businesses. We combine expert knowledge with industry leading solutions allowing business ...

Tracy Volkswagen

Payroll Clerk

Tracy, CA · On-site

$21.25 - $27.75/hr

Livermore Ford Lincoln Alfa Romeo Maserati is looking for a Payroll Clerk to join our growing Team! Gill Auto Group is growing rapidly and looking for talented individuals in all aspects of ...

California State University

Payroll Technician II

Turlock, CA · On-site

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Payroll Technician II Apply now Job no: 555901 Work type: Staff Location: Stanislaus - Turlock Categories: Unit 7 - CSUEU - Clerical and Administrative Support Services, Probationary, Full Time, ...

Merced Community College

Director of Payroll

Merced, CA · On-site

$89K - $138K/yr

Director of Payroll at Merced Community College Share on X Print Application Deadline 9/2/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Date Posted 8/14/2026 Contact Britney Ramirez (209) 381-6550 Number of Openings Not ...

City of Merced

Payroll Technician I/II

Merced, CA · On-site

$63K - $85K/yr

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Payroll Technician I This is the entry and first working level in the Payroll Technician class series. Incumbents learn and perform a variety of basic payroll ...

City of Merced, CA

Payroll Technician I/II

Merced, CA · On-site

$63K - $85K/yr

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Payroll Technician I This is the entry and first working level in the Payroll Technician class series. Incumbents learn and perform a variety of basic payroll ...

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Payroll information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$15

$28

$41

How much do payroll jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll in Modesto, CA is $28.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.85 and $32.45 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 Modesto, CA?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Modesto, CA are:

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

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The top searched job categories for Payroll jobs in Modesto, CA are:

What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Payroll jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Payroll job openings:

Payroll jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,116 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Payroll Specialist

Oakdale, CA • On-site

Talent Group
See more jobs at Talent Groupexternal

$32 - $36/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

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 a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to support payroll operations for a growing organization in Oakdale, California. This role is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll while ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Administration

  • Process end-to-end payroll for employees, including wages, bonuses, commissions, deductions, garnishments, benefits, and tax withholdings.
  • Ensure timely and accurate payroll processing while maintaining compliance with company policies and applicable regulations.
  • Process payroll-related changes including new hires, terminations, salary adjustments, tax elections, and benefit deductions.
  • Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies, overpayments, and employee payroll inquiries.
  • Maintain payroll records and employee payroll data with a high degree of accuracy and confidentiality.

Compliance & Reporting

  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, wage and hour laws, and tax requirements.
  • Stay current on payroll legislation and reporting requirements.
  • Complete required payroll reporting and filings accurately and on time.
  • Assist with year-end payroll activities, including W-2 and 1099 preparation and distribution.
  • Maintain payroll records in accordance with retention and compliance standards.

Auditing & Analysis

  • Perform payroll audits, reconciliations, and quality control reviews.
  • Analyze payroll data to identify trends, discrepancies, and opportunities for process improvement.
  • Prepare payroll reports and provide payroll-related insights to leadership as needed.
  • Research and resolve payroll errors and inconsistencies.

Systems & Process Improvement

  • Maintain and support payroll and HRIS systems.
  • Assist with payroll system implementations, upgrades, testing, and troubleshooting.
  • Develop and improve payroll processes, procedures, and internal controls to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
  • Train employees and supervisors on payroll systems, timekeeping, and self-service tools.

Human Resources Support

  • Partner with Human Resources to ensure employee records are accurate and up to date.
  • Assist with onboarding, benefits administration, and other HR-related functions as needed.
  • Provide exceptional customer service to employees regarding payroll-related matters.
  • Maintain strict confidentiality of employee, payroll, and benefits information.

Qualifications

Required

  • Minimum of 3 years of payroll processing experience.
  • Strong understanding of payroll tax regulations, wage and hour laws, and payroll compliance.
  • Experience with payroll and HRIS systems.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel.
  • Strong attention to detail, organization, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field.
  • Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation.
  • Previous Human Resources experience.
  • Advanced Excel skills, including Pivot Tables, VLOOKUPs, and data analysis.
  • Experience implementing or upgrading payroll systems.

Benefits

  • Competitive compensation package
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Collaborative and team-oriented work environment


Apply