Payroll Specialist

$62,400 - $72,800/Yr

Cemco - West Covina, CA

Full-time - Entry Level

West Covina, CA

Merchant Wholesalers, Durable Goods

About the position

The Payroll Specialist position is a critical role within the Human Resources department, responsible for ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll for employees across multiple locations, including California, Colorado, and Texas. This position requires advanced knowledge of HR and payroll practices, as well as a strong understanding of payroll laws and regulations. The Payroll Specialist will work under the direction of the Director of Human Resources and will be expected to handle various payroll-related tasks, including processing payroll transactions, auditing payroll data, and maintaining employee files. The role demands exceptional attention to detail, professionalism, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment while delivering superior customer service. In this role, the Payroll Specialist will be responsible for processing weekly payroll, including final checks, payroll adjustments, and off-cycle incentive payouts. They will also audit and review payroll transactions for accuracy and compliance, prepare payroll reports for management, and resolve any payroll-related issues that may arise. Additionally, the Payroll Specialist will maintain accurate employee data, assist with year-end reporting, and ensure compliance with IRS and state regulations. The position may also involve supporting benefits administration and participating in special projects as required. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, both verbal and written, and will be proficient in using HRIS systems and Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. A high school diploma is required, along with 2 to 3 years of payroll experience. An associate or bachelor's degree, as well as APA certification, is preferred. The ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team is essential, as is a commitment to maintaining confidentiality and discretion in handling sensitive employee information.

Responsibilities

• Ensure timely and accurate weekly payroll for all employees at all locations including California, Colorado, and Texas.
• Process final checks, payroll adjustments, garnishments, and off-cycle incentive payouts.
• Process payroll transactions, including stop payments and direct deposits.
• Audit and review employee and payroll transactions for accuracy and proper approvals.
• Prepare and distribute payroll reports to Management and Accounting.
• Research and resolve payroll-related issues.
• Maintain employee files and coordinate efforts between payroll, human resources, and other departments.
• Provide documentation to internal/external auditors.
• Maintain accurate census information and employee data integrity.
• Handle year-end reporting and processing of W-2s and tax reports.
• Complete verifications of employment and process unemployment and state benefits claims.
• Create and update payroll SOPs and procedures.
• Respond to state and federal reporting requirements/requests.
• Submit and track annual reporting including EEO, 5500, and 941.
• Ensure compliance with IRS rules and State and Federal tax deduction regulations.
• Communicate payroll policies, changes, and updates to employees and HR.
• Participate in special projects as required.
• Back up for benefits administration including COBRA administration and processing monthly payments to benefit providers.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2 to 3 years of payroll experience required.
• Proficiency in Excel is required.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Proficient knowledge of HRIS systems and ADP.
• Intermediate knowledge in Microsoft Office suite is required.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills are necessary.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Nice-to-haves

• Associate degree or bachelor's degree preferred.
• APA Certification preferred.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance