Payroll Specialist; Onsite Phoenix, AZ

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to join our team in Phoenix, AZ. This is a fully onsite role responsible for processing payroll for approximately 450 employees across multiple states, with a strong emphasis on California payroll compliance. The ideal candidate is highly organized, deadline-driven, and well-versed in complex multi-state payroll regulations, particularly California wage and hour laws.

• Process accurate and timely bi-weekly payroll for approximately 450 employees across multiple states (exempt and non-exempt)
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, with particular expertise in California wage and hour laws (overtime, meal & rest premiums, split shift pay, reporting time pay, final pay requirements, etc.)
• Review and reconcile timekeeping data, ensuring accuracy before each payroll run
• Process off-cycle payroll runs, manual checks, and termination pay in accordance with applicable state deadlines
• Administer garnishments, levies, child support orders, and other payroll deductions accurately and on time

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of California Labor Code requirements including PAGA exposure, itemized wage statement requirements (CA Labor Code 226), and pay stub accuracy
• Manage payroll tax filings and registrations across multiple states
• Ensure compliance with CA pay frequency rules, final pay laws, PTO payout requirements, and sick leave accruals
• Support multi-state new hire reporting and unemployment insurance filings

• Maintain accurate payroll records, employee pay data, and payroll history in HRIS/payroll system
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a timely and professional manner
• Coordinate year-end payroll processes including W-2 preparation and distribution
• Support internal and external payroll audits, General Liability Insurance audits, and Workers Compensation Insurance audits

• Maintain and optimize payroll system configurations to align with company policies and compliance requirements
• Identify and recommend improvements to payroll processes and internal controls
  
  Collaborate with HR, Finance, and Operations to ensure accurate employee data and seamless payroll processing

• 2–5 years of payroll processing experience, including multi-state payroll
• Strong, working knowledge of California payroll laws and regulations (overtime rules, final pay, wage statements, meal/rest premiums, etc.)
• Experience processing payroll for 300+ employees
• Proficiency with a ADP-Workforce Now
• Strong Excel skills including pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and data reconciliation
• High degree of accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to meet strict payroll deadlines
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential employee information with discretion

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or related field
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC)
• Experience in industries with hourly/non-exempt work forces (facilities services, janitorial, construction, hospitality, or similar)

• Highly organized with strong time management skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously
• Analytical mindset with a sharp eye for discrepancies and data accuracy
• Self-starter who takes ownership of the payroll function with minimal supervision
• Strong communicator - able to explain payroll concepts clearly to employees and cross-functional partners
• Collaborative team player with a service-oriented approach
• Integrity and professionalism in handling sensitive compensation data

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.