Sr. Payroll Specialist

Sr. Payroll Specialist Cityside Fiber is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced senior payroll specialist to serve in a lead role supporting the planning and delivery of payroll services and is responsible for processing accurate and timely payroll while ensuring strict compliance with applicable federal and California state regulations. Beyond payroll processing, this position plays a critical role in monitoring and enforcing timekeeping practices — including timecard audits, meal and rest break compliance, and GPS punch verification — in close partnership with Legal and HR. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of California wage and hour laws. The position requires strong analytical skills, confidentiality, and the ability to work collaboratively with HR, legal, accounting, and operations teams. Responsibilities Process accurate and timely bi-weekly payroll in compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations. Reconcile payroll prior to transmission and validate confirmed reports to ensure accuracy before disbursement. Review and audit employee timecards for completeness, accuracy, and policy compliance prior to each payroll cycle. Monitor meal period compliance, including ensuring employees take meal breaks before the 5th hour of work; identify and elevate patterns of missed, late, or inconsistent time entries. Audit GPS punch data to confirm clock‑ins and clock‑outs occur within approved work locations; investigate and resolve discrepancies and exceptions as needed. Partner with managers and HR to ensure timely timecard corrections and consistent enforcement of time‑keeping practices across the organization. Administer payroll deductions including garnishments, tax levies, benefits contributions, and retirement plan contributions. Administer Leave of Absences Partner with HR on new hires, terminations, rate changes, and benefits administration Maintain accurate records of employee time off, including sick time, vacation, and leaves of absence, in coordination with Human Resources. Conduct regular audits of payroll processes and records to ensure ongoing accuracy and compliance. Analyze payroll discrepancies, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to improve efficiency and accuracy. Assist in the development and implementation of payroll policies and procedures. Support month‑end close activities, including preparation of payroll‑related journal entries. Generate and distribute payroll and time‑keeping reports as needed. Provide training and guidance to managers and employees on time‑keeping practices, compliance expectations, and system usage. Stay current on payroll regulations, California labor law developments, and industry best practices. Work in and contribute to an atmosphere of trust and integrity with fellow employees to ensure the overall success of Cityside Fiber. Understand and uphold Cityside Fiber's core purpose and values and be passionate about what we do. Qualifications Minimum 6 years of experience in payroll processing and administration including supervisory or lead responsibilities Intermediate to advanced knowledge of California wage and hour laws, including timecard, meal period, and rest break requirements. Experience processing payroll for 100+ hourly employees. Strong knowledge of payroll systems and software (e.g., ADP, Paylocity, Vensure, or similar). Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with high attention to detail. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with the utmost discretion. Experience with GPS timekeeping or field workforce time tracking a plus. Multi‑state payroll processing experience a plus. Strong communication skills and ability to train and guide non‑payroll staff on compliance expectations. Demonstrated highest level of integrity, intellectual honesty, and strong work ethic. Self‑starter with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage competing deadlines with accuracy. Location Headquarters in Irvine, CA. On‑site requirement. Benefits Competitive salary: $75,000+ (dependent on experience) 401(k) with company match Paid Time Off (PTO), sick leave, and holidays Growth opportunities & career development programs Cityside Fiber is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. #J-18808-Ljbffr