Payroll Specialist (Preston Companies)

With over 55 years of experience and a team of 450+ employees, Preston Companies is built on a foundation of Quality, Integrity, and Service. At Preston Pipelines, we deliver reliable underground utility installations for projects of all sizes, supported by skilled teams and modern, sustainable equipment.

Your success matters. We offer a collaborative, inclusive work environment with opportunities for growth, professional development, and work-life balance—so you can build a rewarding career while making a real impact.

Preston Companies is proud to be recognized as a 2025 Bay Area Best Places to Work winner by the San Francisco Business Times and the Silicon Valley Business Journal —marking our fifth consecutive year on the list and a #4 ranking in the 100–199 employee category. This recognition reflects our strong culture and the people who make Preston a great place to work.

Position Overview

Preston is looking for dynamic individual to join our payroll team. The Payroll Specialist will manage and oversee the preparation and submission of payroll reports. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, a thorough understanding of wage laws, and the ability to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Process weekly union payroll by accurately entering and reviewing employee timekeeping data, including regular hours, overtime, and paid time off.
• Process union fringe benefits in compliance with collective bargaining agreements, state laws, federal laws and company policies.
• Oversee reconciliation of Laborer, and Operator union benefit contributions, identifying and resolving accrual and payment discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of employee hours, wages, deductions, and fringe benefits to support payroll accuracy and compliance.
• File weekly, and monthly payroll tax filings.
• Review and manage disability and unemployment claims while collaborating with the Safety and Dispatch team.
• Track, process, and maintain records for Franchise Tax Board, court-ordered, and state wage garnishments.

Audits and Inspections:

• Assist with internal and external audits related to payroll.
• Prepare necessary documentation and respond to audit inquiries promptly.
• Ensure all payroll records are available for inspection by relevant authorities.
• Review subcontractor reports for discrepancies

Communication:

• Demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships across all levels of the organization while handling sensitive and confidential information with the highest level of discretion.
• Maintain a strong customer service mindset by prioritizing employee and client needs while making informed payroll and compliance decisions critical to the success of the role.
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries and resolve discrepancies in a timely and professional manner

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and union payroll laws, regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Proficient in payroll systems and advanced Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, pivot tables, formulas, and data analysis functions.
• Exceptional attention to detail with strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Highly organized multitasker and collaborative team player who thrives in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.
• Proven reliability with exemplary attendance, strong work ethic, and commitment to accuracy and efficiency.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and resolve payroll discrepancies effectively.

Qualifications

Preferred:

• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish, including the ability to communicate effectively in both verbal and written formats.
• Two (2) or more years of related professional experience in payroll, accounting, administrative support, construction administration, or a similar field.
• Associate or bachelor's degree in business administration, Accounting, Finance, Construction Management, Human Resources, or a related discipline.

Compensation & Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and career growth.

• Pay Range: $30-$40 per hour, based on experience and role requirements
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance options
• Financial Benefits: Retirement savings plans with potential employer contributions
• Paid Time Off: Paid holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Professional Development: Access to training, certifications, and opportunities for career advancement
• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness resources
• Additional Perks: Additional company-provided and voluntary benefits may be available based on eligibility

Location

• This position is an in-person position, based in Milpitas, CA.

• Expect to do some travel within the Bay Area.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Preston Companies is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

If this role sounds like a great fit, we'd love to hear from you!