Payroll and Accounting Specialist

Payroll & Accounting Specialist

Direct-Hire Opportunity | Salary Range: $85,000-$90,000

Overview

We are partnering with a well-established, second-generation, family-owned landscaping organization seeking a Payroll & Accounting Specialist with a strong payroll focus. This role will serve as the primary owner of payroll processing and payroll-related compliance while remaining actively involved in core accounting functions. The position works closely with operations leadership and an outsourced accounting partner in a fast-paced, operations-driven environment.

This is an excellent opportunity for a payroll-forward accounting professional who is well-versed in California wage and hour compliance and enjoys owning processes end to end.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll & Compliance (Primary Focus)

• Own and process payroll using Inova, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
• Act as the internal subject-matter expert on California wage and hour laws, timekeeping, and payroll best practices
• Partner closely with Operations Managers to ensure accurate timecard submission, approvals, and compliance
• Resolve payroll discrepancies and respond to employee payroll-related inquiries
• Support payroll reporting, audits, and year-end processing

Accounting & Month-End Support

• Assist with month-end close activities, including account reconciliations and journal entries
• Manage and clear bank feeds, match deposits, and ensure accurate cash application in QuickBooks Online
• Support financial reporting and ad hoc analysis
• Maintain accurate general ledger records in coordination with an outsourced accounting partner

Vendor Management & Third-Party Coordination

• Serve as the primary liaison with the outsourced accounting firm
• Support vendor setup, data entry oversight, and AP coordination
• Review vendor records, ensure proper documentation, and assist with 1099 compliance
• Monitor workflows to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and adherence to internal controls

Systems & Process Improvement

• Work within financial systems including LMN (ERP), Inova (Payroll), and QuickBooks Online
• Identify opportunities to improve payroll, accounting, and reporting processes
• Assist with system upgrades, implementations, and process documentation

Qualifications

• 5 years of progressive payroll and accounting experience
• Strong working knowledge of California wage and hour laws
• Hands-on experience with payroll systems
• Experience with ERP platforms and QuickBooks Online
• Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally with operations teams and external vendors
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management skills
• Excellent communication skills with a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset

Compensation & Benefits

• $85,000-$90,000 annual salary (DOE)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with employer match
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities