PAYROLL SPECIALIST

Overview Join us in making a difference at Home of Guiding Hands. The Payroll Specialist role is essential to ensure accurate, on-time payroll processing, supporting our employees and the people we serve. This position protects stability across pay cycles and contributes to operational continuity for a large, multi-program organization. What You’ll Be Doing Process payroll accurately and on time for all scheduled cycles (bi-weekly and semi-monthly). Review, validate, and correct timecard and payroll data prior to processing deadlines. Resolve employee payroll inquiries in a timely and accurate manner. Maintain complete, accurate, and audit-ready payroll records. Ensure compliance with applicable payroll laws, regulations, and internal policies; proactively identify and escalate risks or discrepancies. Serve as a primary point of contact for payroll questions and provide clear, timely resolutions. Collaborate with People Operations to ensure accurate onboarding, status changes, and offboarding payroll updates. Prepare and review payroll reports and support reconciliations as part of the payroll close process. Support payroll audits by maintaining documentation and responding to internal and external requests. Utilize and maintain payroll systems (including UKG) to ensure data accuracy and system integrity. Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes and support best practice implementations. Key Responsibilities Execute end-to-end payroll processing for bi-weekly and semi-monthly cycles, ensuring accuracy and timely deadlines. Review and audit time and labor data (missed punches, overtime, exceptions) and resolve or escalate discrepancies. Maintain and update employee payroll records (pay rates, deductions, benefits, tax withholdings). Calculate wages, overtime, deductions, garnishments, and benefits contributions. Be the primary contact for employee payroll questions and provide timely resolutions. Partner with People Operations on onboarding, status changes, and offboarding payroll updates. Prepare payroll reports and assist with reconciliations during close. Support payroll audits with documented evidence and responses to requests. Use and maintain payroll systems (UKG) with focus on accuracy and integrity. Identify and implement process improvements and payroll best practices. Compliance & Risk Management Ensure payroll practices comply with federal, state, and local regulations, including California wage and hour laws. Support meal/rest break requirements, overtime rules, and payroll recordkeeping standards. Maintain strict confidentiality of employee payroll and personal information. Proactively identify and escalate potential compliance risks or discrepancies. Qualifications Associate’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field; equivalent experience considered. 4+ years of payroll processing experience, preferably in a mid-to-large organization. Experience with UKG payroll systems strongly preferred. Working knowledge of federal and California payroll regulations. Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office. Strong organizational skills and ability to manage deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Clear and professional communication skills. Conditions of Employment Must successfully complete background clearance (Live Scan fingerprinting). Must possess a valid California driver’s license. Must maintain strict confidentiality of all payroll and employee information. Physical Demands/Environment This is an onsite position based in San Diego County (El Cajon office). In-office presence is required. Standard business hours with increased workload during payroll processing periods. Regular use of a computer and standard office equipment. Our Values Innovation – We encourage creativity and pursue efficient, effective ways of working to achieve exceptional results. Collaboration – We value teamwork, communication, and cooperation as the foundation of our culture. Accountability – We take responsibility for our actions and commitments, building trust with stakeholders. Respect – We treat everyone with dignity and foster an inclusive work environment. Empathy – We strive to understand the perspectives and needs of colleagues, clients, and stakeholders with kindness and compassion. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement Home of Guiding Hands is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity/expression), age, marital status, status as a protected veteran, disability, or other characteristics. About HGH For nearly 60 years, Home of Guiding Hands has supported thousands of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across San Diego and Imperial Counties. We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to fulfilling our mission and inviting you to join our team as a Payroll Specialist. #J-18808-Ljbffr