We are currently seeking a Payroll Specialist to join a well-established and stable social services organization located in Sacramento. Our client is dedicated to providing essential human rights services within the community, fostering a deeply inclusive and collaborative culture. This direct hire position offers a hybrid work model (2-3 days onsite after training) and represents an excellent opportunity to join a team that values its employees and is committed to its mission. The Payroll Specialist will be primarily responsible for processing, reconciling, and managing various payroll operations. This role not only offers competitive compensation but also the chance to contribute to meaningful work in a supportive organizational environment. Salary: $50,000-70,000 DOE.

The qualified candidate will demonstrate a strong ability to maintain accuracy while handling high-volume payroll in a fast-paced environment. Excellent attention to detail, effective communication skills, and a proven track record of meeting deadlines are essential. Experience with Paylocity and Sage MIP would be advantageous.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintain all payroll related records and perform audits and reconciliations of payroll information on a biweekly, quarterly, fiscal and yearly basis.
• Process and review biweekly payroll for approximately 350 (+) employees.
• Troubleshoot & resolve issues related to payroll.
• Apply direct payroll knowledge to evaluating and processing timesheets, personnel action notices, 401k changes, payroll deductions and other payroll related documents.
• Calculate payroll for staff on leave and coordinate benefits with 3rd party agencies. 
• Verify HR input of pay increases and benefit elections and all other payroll changes. 
• Accurate and timely processing of Accounts Payable, Tax Agency garnishments and State Agency correspondence as it relates to payroll.
• Provide professional and compassionate customer service through timely communication with employees and vendors about problems and questions surrounding payroll. 
• Prepare ad hoc reports as requested and assist with preparation of necessary reports and schedules for various audits. 
• Provide backup support to other accounting staff during absences.
• Maintain employee confidence and protect payroll operations by keeping information confidential.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associates Degree in Accounting or Business required. Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Business preferred. 
• Minimum 3 years of direct payroll accounting experience for 300+ employees.
• Demonstrated Accounting knowledge including general ledger, accounts payable and reconciliation experience with the ability to apply GAAP to all accounting transactions. Extensive experience using an electronic payroll and enterprise accounting software.  
• Direct experience producing quarterly and annual payroll reports, applying basic 401k law requirements, and EDD benefits pertaining to FMLA/CFRA or PFL regulations.  
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency in MS Excel. 
• Ability to manage high levels of data in a fast-paced environment using critical decision making and problem-solving skills.  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.