Payroll Specialist

Overview

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for supporting accurate and timely processing of payroll for First Watch employees as well as the people analytics with the oversight of the Payroll Supervisor. The position requires a basic understanding of payroll systems to carry out the principles and standards that support the Company’s business and human resources related responsibilities.

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities. Reliable and dependable attendance is required.

• Assist in the preparation of the biweekly payroll, reviews and processes employee payroll changes
• Update payroll records and assist the team in preparing payroll for timely processing
• Answer inquiries directed to the payroll inbox and respond in a professional and timely manner
• Run audit reports for the field and reach out to managers to correct data flowing to payroll
• Maintain pay cards for all company restaurants
• Send garnishment orders to third party vendors for processing
• Effectively communicate with all levels to establish and maintain positive working relationships
• Investigate and issue manual check requests
• Coordinate questions from the field regarding daily tip out procedures
• Field PTO requests from the field as it relates to their balances
• Answer questions about payroll matters which require limited policy interpretation
• Complete forms requiring payroll data
• Make recommendations for improvements to payroll procedures
• Assist with year-end reporting, W-2 processing, and annual pay summaries
• Support the team with special payroll-related projects as needed, including audits

• The position requires a high school diploma and 2+ years of payroll experience with a medium-large sized organization. Degree in a related and supporting field of study preferred
• Payroll experience in a multi-unit / multi-state restaurant or retail environment strongly preferred
• Proficient in using HRIS software such as ADP (preferred), UKG or Workday.
• Knowledge of payroll processes and regulations, including garnishments, payroll conversions, tax and withholding
• Strong working knowledge of MS 365, (Excel, Word & Outlook), web-based applications & databases
• Possess and maintain a high degree of confidentiality and professionalism
• Customer service orientation toward service and building relationships

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon.

For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact in our communities – raising more than $1.7 million to date. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted 2025’s #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards and was also named 2025 and 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by the Best Practice Institute (as seen in The Wall Street Journal), after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023 as well.

With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 620 restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visit

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.