Payroll Administrator

HR - Payroll Administrator

Location: Modesto, CA Pay: $32-$36 - Exempt

We are seeking a proactive "ideas person" who is an organized and detail-oriented Payroll Administrator to join our HR team. This position combines comprehensive payroll administration with human resources support to enhance team performance, engagement, and recognition. The Payroll Administrator will oversee accurate and compliant payroll processing, generate data-driven reports for leadership, and lead initiatives such as the employee recognition program and monthly newsletter. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on accuracy, process improvement, and building positive employee experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Payroll Administration
• Manage full-cycle payroll processing for multiple locations across California, including wages and deductions, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
• Proactively generate time and attendance trend reports for leadership, highlighting areas for improvement and compliance risks.
• Maintain accurate time and attendance records; partner with managers to address discrepancies and ensure labor law compliance (overtime, rest breaks, holidays, vacation, sick leave).
• Process payroll changes such as new hires, terminations, and salary updates.
• Reconcile payroll data, perform audits, and resolve payroll-related issues promptly.
• Generate payroll reports to help prepare year-end filings (W-2s, 1099s), and maintain organized payroll records.
• Implement and test new payroll system features, upgrades, and process improvements.
• Assist with onboarding processes, benefits administration, and leave of absence (FMLA/CFRA/LOA) tracking.
• Complete required agency and audit reporting (EEO, BLS, EDD, etc.).
• Employee Engagement & Communication
• Lead the employee recognition program, including planning and coordinating small company events or initiatives.
• Manage the creation and distribution of the company's monthly employee newsletter - highlighting star employees.

Qualifications

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required. Payroll Certification (FPC, CPP) preferred. 3+ years of payroll processing experience. 1+ years of human resources support experience. Strong understanding of payroll laws, compliance requirements, and reporting. High level of confidentiality, accuracy, and attention to detail. Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Windows. Experience with ERP systems Ability to adapt quickly to new software and processes.