Payroll Specialist

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to join our team in Phoenix, AZ. This is a fully onsite role responsible for processing payroll for approximately 450 employees across multiple states, with a strong emphasis on California payroll compliance. The ideal candidate is highly organized, deadline-driven, and well-versed in complex multi-state payroll regulations, particularly California wage and hour laws. Key Responsibilities Payroll Processing Process accurate and timely bi-weekly payroll for approximately 450 employees across multiple states (exempt and non-exempt) Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, with particular expertise in California wage and hour laws (overtime, meal & rest premiums, split shift pay, reporting time pay, final pay requirements, etc.) Review and reconcile timekeeping data, ensuring accuracy before each payroll run Process off-cycle payroll runs, manual checks, and termination pay in accordance with applicable state deadlines Administer garnishments, levies, child support orders, and other payroll deductions accurately and on time California & Multi-State Compliance Maintain up-to-date knowledge of California Labor Code requirements including PAGA exposure, itemized wage statement requirements (CA Labor Code 226), and pay stub accuracy Manage payroll tax filings and registrations across multiple states Ensure compliance with CA pay frequency rules, final pay laws, PTO payout requirements, and sick leave accruals Support multi-state new hire reporting and unemployment insurance filings Payroll Administration & Recordkeeping Maintain accurate payroll records, employee pay data, and payroll history in HRIS/payroll system Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a timely and professional manner Coordinate year-end payroll processes including W-2 preparation and distribution Support internal and external payroll audits, General Liability Insurance audits, and Workers Compensation Insurance audits Systems & Process Improvement Maintain and optimize payroll system configurations to align with company policies and compliance requirements Identify and recommend improvements to payroll processes and internal controlsCollaborate with HR, Finance, and Operations to ensure accurate employee data and seamless payroll processing Qualifications Required 2–5 years of payroll processing experience, including multi-state payroll Strong, working knowledge of California payroll laws and regulations (overtime rules, final pay, wage statements, meal/rest premiums, etc.) Experience processing payroll for 300+ employees Proficiency with a ADP-Workforce Now Strong Excel skills including pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and data reconciliation High degree of accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to meet strict payroll deadlines Ability to handle sensitive and confidential employee information with discretion Preferred Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or related field Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) Experience in industries with hourly/non-exempt workforces (facilities services, janitorial, construction, hospitality, or similar) Core Competencies Highly organized with strong time management skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously Analytical mindset with a sharp eye for discrepancies and data accuracy Self-starter who takes ownership of the payroll function with minimal supervision Strong communicator - able to explain payroll concepts clearly to employees and cross-functional partners Collaborative team player with a service-oriented approach Integrity and professionalism in handling sensitive compensation data We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr