Automotive Payroll Specialist

Overview

Automotive Payroll Specialist (Payroll Processor) — Fitzpatrick Dealership Group (FDG)

Modesto, CA (On-site) | Full-time | $25–$30/hr

Be the heartbeat behind every paycheck—help power FDG’s growth.

At Fitzpatrick Dealership Group (FDG), we know that a thriving dealership starts with a supported team. Founded in 1989 by Ed Fitzpatrick
, FDG proudly operates Valley BMW, Valley Lexus, Coliseum Lexus of Oakland, and Valley Kia
, with our home base in Modesto, CA
. We’re committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences—and that begins with taking excellent care of our people.

As we continue to grow, we’re looking for an Automotive Payroll Specialist who brings precision, integrity, and ownership to every detail. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love turning complexity into clarity, and understand the importance of compliance and trust, you’ll feel right at home here.

What You’ll Do

You’ll manage end-to-end payroll with accuracy, confidentiality, and care—supporting multiple locations and a range of employee types.

• Process biweekly and semi-monthly payrolls accurately and on time
• Administer and audit payroll in Paycom and/or Paylocity (hands-on experience required)
• Maintain and reconcile timekeeping, deductions, garnishments, and benefit contributions
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
  , with strong emphasis on California wage and hour laws
• Meal period and rest/recovery requirements
• Manage employee benefits and deductions and maintain complete payroll records
• Generate payroll and labor reports for HR, Accounting, and leadership
• Respond to payroll questions with professionalism, clarity, and empathy
• Stay current on changes to payroll regulations and best practices

What You Bring

You’re the type of person who catches what others miss—and takes pride in getting it right.

Required and preferred qualifications:

• 3+ years of full-cycle payroll processing experience (automotive or multi-location strongly preferred)
• Paycom and/or Paylocity experience required
• Strong knowledge of California payroll compliance and wage/hour regulations
• Solid understanding of payroll fundamentals: taxes, benefits, deductions, garnishments, recordkeeping
• Strong accounting knowledge, analytical thinking, and high attention to detail
• Excellent organization—able to manage competing priorities and deadlines
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach with HR, Accounting, and management
• Proven ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism
• Excel proficiency and comfort producing payroll/labor reports
• Associate degree in accounting, finance, or related field preferred
• Payroll certification is a plus

This is more than payroll—it’s building confidence across an entire organization. You’ll join a respected dealership group with deep roots in California and a culture that values professionalism, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Benefits include:

• 401(k) +
  401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Paid time off

• Modesto, CA 95356
• Must be able to commute; relocation preferred before start

If you’re ready to bring accuracy, accountability, and excellence to a team that’s growing—and where your work directly supports the people who drive the business forward—
FDG would love to meet you.