Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist

Location: Vernon, CA
Department: Accounting
Reports To: CFO

Job Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to manage and process weekly payroll using ADP Workforce Now and ADP Time and Attendance systems. The ideal candidate will ensure accurate and timely payroll disbursements while supporting the CFO and Human Resources Manager in administering compensation programs. This position plays a key role in maintaining payroll accuracy, compliance, and employee satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Process and disburse weekly payroll of 150 employees using ADP Workforce Now.
• Enter and validate employee hours using ADP Time and Attendance software.
• Collaborate with HR and Accounting on payroll-related matters and ensure accuracy of benefit deductions.
• Audit and verify time sheets, wage calculations, pay data entries, and year-to-date totals.
• Maintain accurate payroll records and reconcile payroll accounts.
• Handle garnishments, deductions, and vacation/sick accruals.
• Review, process, and produce payroll and customized reports as needed.
• Assist with manual check processing for lost/stolen checks or late submissions.
• Monitor and audit vacation/sick balances and ensure policy compliance.
• Provide support and training to supervisors/managers on ADP-related issues.
• Assist CFO with year-end payroll processing, W-2s, and required tax documentation.
• Respond to employee inquiries and verification requests with professionalism and confidentiality.
• Uphold compliance with state and federal payroll regulations and internal policies.
• Crosstrain in benefits administration for department backup as needed.

Core Competencies

• Adaptability & Accountability: Embraces change, accepts feedback, and takes ownership.
• Analytical Skills: Interprets complex information and prioritizes effectively.
• Attendance & Punctuality: Dependable and consistent in meeting schedules and deadlines.
• Business Ethics & Compliance: Maintains high integrity and ensures regulatory adherence.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Confidentiality: Maintains strict confidentiality with employee and payroll data.
• Customer Service: Provides professional support to employees and departments.
• Judgment & Decision Making: Exercises sound judgment and involve stakeholders appropriately.
• Organization: Keeps a structured, organized workflow and meets recurring deadlines.
• Teamwork: Collaborates respectfully and contributes positively to team morale.
• Training: Completes all required company training in a timely manner.

Additional Duties

• Attend staff and departmental meetings as required.
• Assist with collections, credit card reconciliations, and office administrative support.
• Coordinate service requests for office equipment and assist in ordering supplies.

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 3 years of experience processing payroll.
• Proficient in ADP Workforce Now, ADP Reporting, and ADP Time and Attendance.
• Strong knowledge of payroll policies, tax laws, and compliance regulations.

Technical Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other MS Office applications.
• Technically adept with the ability to learn new systems quickly.

Preferred:

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.
• Experience in handling confidential payroll information in a secure manner.

Work Conditions:

• Full-time on-site position, Monday through Friday.
• Some physical requirements such as picking up and delivering mail/checks.