Payroll Administrator

FORTIS Resources Partners is a boutique recruiting firm in Orange County, CA. We are recruiting for this contract role on behalf of our client located in the Santa Ana area.

This is a 6-month contract role responsible for overseeing and executing the full-cycle payroll function within a large, in-house ERP system environment. The Payroll Administrator ensures accurate and timely payroll processing while maintaining compliance with all applicable federal, state, and organizational policies and regulations. This position operates with a high degree of independence and requires strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

This is an advanced-level payroll position requiring specialized expertise in payroll systems, compliance, and reconciliation processes. The successful candidate will demonstrate sound judgment in interpreting policies and applying payroll regulations while supporting organizational objectives. The role demands discretion, technical proficiency, and the ability to manage complex payroll matters independently.

• Manage and process bi-weekly payroll with a high degree of accuracy and timeliness.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and internal payroll policies and procedures.
• Perform complex payroll calculations including taxes, retroactive adjustments, leave payments, separations, garnishments, and voluntary deductions.
• Reconcile payroll registers and general ledger accounts each pay cycle.
• Prepare and maintain payroll records, reports, and supporting documentation.
• Research and implement updates related to changes in tax laws, retirement reporting, and payroll regulations.
• Participate in system testing, updates, and payroll software enhancements.
• Provide guidance and respond to payroll-related inquiries from employees, departments, and external agencies.
• Prepare payroll-related reports for internal leadership and external entities.
• Ensure proper application of compensation agreements, salary schedules, and policy guidelines.
• Process court-ordered wage garnishments and ensure required notifications are provided.
• Prepare and submit required state and federal payroll filings.
• Support internal and external audit requests with appropriate documentation.
• Reconcile retirement reporting and related payroll accounts.
• Assist with training and knowledge-sharing within the payroll function.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned.

• Associate degree in accounting or related field preferred; relevant coursework or equivalent experience considered.
• Minimum three (3) years of in-house payroll processing experience.
• Experience working within an ERP system required, Workday experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state payroll regulations and compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with payroll tax filings and retirement reporting.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation preferred.
• Public sector or municipal payroll experience preferred.