Payroll Specialist

Robert Half - Poway, CA

Full-time - Entry Level

Poway, CA

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

The Payroll Specialist is a temporary role focused on assisting with payroll operations during a high-volume period in the manufacturing industry. This position is crucial for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing for a large workforce, including both hourly and salaried employees across multiple manufacturing sites. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of payroll regulations and best practices, particularly in a fast-paced environment with complex payroll structures.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly and weekly payroll for a large number of hourly and salaried manufacturing employees.
• Ensure accurate calculation of wages, overtime, shift differentials, bonuses, and deductions.
• Input and verify timecard data, tracking multiple shifts and production schedules.
• Ensure payroll is compliant with federal, state, and local regulations, including overtime rules and wage-and-hour laws applicable to manufacturing workers.
• Prepare and process payroll tax payments, garnishments, and benefit contributions.
• Assist with payroll tax filings and reports.
• Maintain up-to-date employee payroll records, including new hires, terminations, and any status or wage changes.
• Ensure accuracy in employee classifications (exempt/non-exempt) and maintain compliance with labor laws.
• Generate regular payroll reports, including labor cost analysis, for finance and HR departments.
• Assist with internal audits and provide necessary documentation for compliance.
• Collaborate with HR and finance teams to address payroll discrepancies, resolve employee inquiries, and ensure alignment on payroll procedures.
• Provide support during payroll system updates and improvements.

Requirements

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, human resources, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of payroll experience, preferably in the manufacturing industry.
• Experience with payroll for hourly employees, including overtime calculations and multi-shift environments.
• Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., ADP, Paycom, or similar) and timekeeping systems.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including pivot tables and VLOOKUPs.
• Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
• Excellent communication skills to address payroll issues and inquiries with employees and management.