Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist (Long-Term Contract) | Oakland, CA (Hybrid Schedule) Overview

We’re partnering with a growing organization seeking a Payroll Specialist for a long-term contract opportunity. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a detailed, compliance-driven environment and has strong experience with prevailing wage, certified payroll, and multi-state payroll processing. You’ll play a key role in ensuring accurate, timely payroll while supporting complex requirements tied to public works and government-funded projects.

• Manage full-cycle payroll (weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly) for a multi-state workforce
• Review timesheets, earnings, deductions, and adjustments for accuracy
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage & hour laws (including CA regulations)
• Perform payroll audits and resolve discrepancies proactively
• Partner with HR on employee changes, onboarding, and terminations
• Maintain accurate payroll records and support audit requests

• Research and apply correct prevailing wage rates, including fringe, subsistence, and classifications
• Prepare and submit certified payroll reports in compliance with applicable regulations
• Track and apply updates to wage determinations and project requirements
• Partner with project teams to ensure proper coding and compliance across jobs
• Manage reporting and remittance of training funds and benefit contributions

• Process payroll for employees on international assignments
• Handle complex compensation elements (allowances, tax equalization, etc.)
• Support shadow payroll and ensure compliance across multiple jurisdictions
• Coordinate with external advisors on global tax reporting and filings

• Process and reconcile payroll taxes across multiple states
• Handle filings, payments, and year-end reporting (W-2s and global forms)
• Respond to tax notices and maintain agency relationships
• Generate payroll reports and support system improvements

• 5+ years of payroll experience, with strong California payroll knowledge
• Hands‑on experience with prevailing wage, certified payroll, and rate sourcing
• Experience supporting expatriate payroll and multi‑state tax compliance
• Proficiency with ADP Workforce Now and strong Excel skills
• High attention to detail with strong communication skills

• CPP certification
• Background in construction, public works, or similar industries
• Experience managing complex, multi-state payroll environments

This is a great opportunity to join a collaborative team in a role that offers both complexity and impact. If you’re looking for your next long-term project, I’d love to connect!