Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for managing and processing payroll for all employees, including union field staff and office personnel. This role requires expertise in handling union payroll, certified payroll reporting, and compliance with collective bargaining agreements (CBAs). The Payroll Specialist will ensure that all payroll transactions are accurate, timely, and compliant with federal, state, and local regulations as well as union requirements.

Responsibilities:

• Process weekly payroll through Paylocity for union and non-union employees, ensuring accuracy in hours, job codes, and fringe benefits.
• Administer and maintain compliance with multiple union agreements, including wage rates, benefits contributions, and deductions.
• Prepare and submit certified payroll reports using DIR, LCPtracker, and Elation Systems for prevailing wage and public works projects.
• Stay up to date with changes to union contracts, wage determinations, and government regulations.
• Calculate and remit union benefit contributions, dues, and apprenticeship training fund payments.
• Coordinate with HR on new hires, terminations, leaves of absence, promotions, and benefit changes.
• Respond to employee and union representative inquiries regarding wages, deductions, and timekeeping.
• Ensure payroll taxes and filings are completed in compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
• Review and validate timecards, job codes, and cost allocations to ensure accurate labor distribution across projects and addressing payroll discrepancies.
• Maintain accurate and organized payroll records for audit and reporting purposes.
• Maintain accurate employee payroll records, deductions, garnishments, and direct deposits.
• Collaborate with project managers and accounting staff to allocate labor costs correctly across jobs.
• Reconcile payroll accounts with the general ledger and assist with month-end and year-end reporting.
• Continuously improve payroll processes to increase efficiency and accuracy.
• Assist with audits and union reporting requirements as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• 3 years of payroll experience, with at least 2 years in union payroll processing.
• Strong knowledge of collective bargaining agreements and prevailing wage laws (Davis-Bacon, state-specific requirements).
• Experience with payroll/accounting systems used in construction (e.g., Paylocity, Viewpoint Vista, Viewpoint ProContractor, or similar).
• Proven compliance discipline (DIR/LCP trackers or equivalent), audit-ready, deadline reliability.
• Union remittances, benefits/deductions, garnishments; payroll GL reconciliations; quarterlies.
• Proficiency in MS Excel and payroll reporting tools.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple union agreements simultaneously.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• High level of confidentiality when handling sensitive employee and union information.

Location: SF Bay Area (Corporate office located in San Jose, CA)  

 The salary range for this position is $80k - $104k based on experience and qualifications. In addition to a base salary, Axis Mechanical Inc. offers a performance-based bonus, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Axis Mechanical is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE AA M/F Vet/Disability).

Qualified applicants are evaluated without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, political affiliation or belief, age, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.

H1B Visa sponsorship is not available for this specific position.