Junior Payroll Specialist

Job Title: Junior Payroll Specialist

Location: Carlsbad, CA (Onsite)

Pay: $20.00–$24.00 per hour, depending on experience

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm

Employment Type: Full-Time

We are seeking a detail‑oriented Junior Payroll Specialist to join our growing finance team. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a fast‑paced environment and is looking to build a career in payroll, accounting, and HR. The position primarily focuses on payroll processing while also supporting accounting and employee onboarding functions.

Whether you're looking to grow your career or seeking a stable position with a collaborative team, this is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience across multiple areas of finance and administration.

This is a great opportunity for someone who is looking to advance in their career or someone who is looking for a flexible schedule.

• Process weekly payroll for hourly employees accurately and on time.
• Maintain employee payroll records, tax with holdings, and direct deposit information.
• Reconcile payroll accounts, including wages, taxes, benefits, and deductions.
• Process garnishments, benefit deductions, and other payroll adjustments.
• Respond to employee questions regarding payroll, time off, and benefits.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations.

• Assist with new hire onboarding and candidate screening.
• Support accounts payable and accounts receivable data entry.
• Record journal entries and reconcile balance sheet accounts.
• Assist with general ledger maintenance and financial reporting.
• Help prepare documentation for audits and internal reporting.
• Perform expense reconciliations and other accounting support duties as assigned.

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field.
• At least 1 year of experience in payroll, bookkeeping, HR, or accounting.
• Experience with payroll software such as Quick Books, Gusto, ADP, Paychex, or similar.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Basic knowledge of payroll tax regulations, wage and hour laws, and accounting principles.
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and confidentiality.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.

• Experience working in a small business or multi‑client accounting environment.
• Customer service‑oriented with excellent communication skills.
• Positive, team‑focused attitude with a willingness to learn and grow professionally.

• Competitive pay based on experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and cross‑training in accounting and finance.

If you're dependable, detail‑oriented, and eager to develop your payroll and accounting skills, we'd love to hear from you.