Payroll Specialist

About Konnect: At Konnect, we’re modernizing HR to be more strategic, scalable, and human-centered. As a fractional and outsourced HR partner, we help companies build scalable, compliant, and people-first operations without the overhead of a full-time team. From hiring and onboarding to compliance and performance management, we take HR off companies’ plates so they can stay focused on growth. We’re now expanding into SaaS with KonnectAi, an AI-powered platform designed to streamline HR workflows, surface real-time insights, and automate repetitive work. Grounded in our mission of “Keeping HR Human,” we combine hands‑on expertise with technology to help modern organizations build better, more efficient workplaces Job Summary: We are looking for a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in payroll processing and a thorough understanding of payroll regulations and compliance. This role is essential in ensuring accurate and timely payroll for all employees. Key Responsibilities: Prepare and enter payroll data for assigned client payroll cycles, including new hires, terminations, status and rate changes, hours, and earnings, and submit completed payroll files to the Payroll Administrator for review and release. Collect, review, and verify timesheets, work schedules, and wage computations, following up with managers and client contacts to correct missing or inconsistent time records before processing. Maintain employee payroll records and supporting documentation, ensuring data is complete, current, and consistent with source records in the HRIS. Enter and maintain routine payroll deductions and withholdings, including benefit elections, garnishments, and tax withholding elections, in accordance with established procedures and documented authorizations. Perform standard pre- and post-processing checks using established checklists, and report variances or out-of-balance conditions to the Payroll Administrator for resolution. Respond to routine employee and client payroll inquiries regarding pay statements, timecards, deductions, direct deposit, and year-end tax form access, escalating complex, sensitive, or regulatory questions to senior payroll staff. Generate and distribute recurring payroll reports and registers on established schedules. Process off-cycle items such as manual checks, final pay, and payroll adjustments as directed and approved. Prepare documentation and gather supporting records for payroll audits, tax filings, and year-end activities performed by senior payroll staff. Follow established payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls, and complete assigned training to maintain current working knowledge of payroll practices and wage and hour requirements. Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, human resources, or a related field preferred. Minimum of one year of payroll processing or payroll support experience; relevant internship or high-volume data entry experience in an HR, accounting, or payroll setting may be considered. Working familiarity with payroll or HRIS platforms (e.g., ADP, Paylocity, Dayforce) and the ability to learn new systems quickly. Basic understanding of payroll fundamentals, including gross-to-net calculation, pay frequencies, and standard deductions. Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and follow-through in a deadline-driven environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including working knowledge of Excel (sorting, filtering, and basic formulas). Clear, service-oriented written and verbal communication skills. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion. Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) is a plus. What We Offer Compensation: $30-$38/hr Non-exempt Comprehensive benefits package (Medical, Dental, Vision), with 100% of medical premiums covered by Konnect Unlimited PTO 401(k) with up to 4% match Location: Hybrid in Irvine (Tuesday-Thursday) 7515 Irvine Center Dr, Ste 120 Irvine CA, 92618 Clients: Multiple across industries and service tiers #J-18808-Ljbffr