Payroll Manager

GHJ Search & Staffing is working with a highly respected Los Angeles-based nonprofit educational organization is seeking a Payroll Manager / Accounting Specialist to join its Finance team. This newly created position offers the opportunity to take ownership of payroll operations as the organization transitions payroll in-house. Reporting to the Controller and working closely with the CFO and Human Resources team, this role serves as the subject matter expert for all payroll-related functions while also supporting accounting operations, reconciliations, audits, and financial reporting activities. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced payroll professional with a strong accounting foundation who enjoys working cross-functionally and making a meaningful impact within a mission-driven organization. What You'll Do: Payroll Leadership Manage and oversee the full payroll cycle for approximately 140-150 employees on a semi-monthly basis Review and monitor employee timecards, approvals, missed punches, and payroll-related changes Ensure payroll accuracy and compliance with federal, California state, and local regulations Administer payroll-related deductions, garnishments, benefits, retirement contributions, leave programs, and tax reporting Partner closely with Human Resources on new hires, terminations, employee changes, and payroll-related inquiries Prepare payroll audits, quarterly reporting, reconciliations, and compliance documentation Serve as the primary payroll resource for employees, managers, and leadership Accounting & Finance Support Prepare payroll-related journal entries and account reconciliations Assist with month-end close activities and financial reporting Support annual audits and special accounting projects Reconcile benefit invoices and retirement plan contributions Collaborate with Accounting and HR to strengthen internal controls and improve payroll processes What They're Looking For: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field 5+ years of accounting experience 2+ years of hands-on payroll processing experience Strong knowledge of California payroll laws and regulations Experience managing payroll compliance, taxes, garnishments, and employee benefits Experience preparing payroll journal entries and reconciliations Excellent communication and employee service skills Strong Excel and HRIS/payroll system experience Ability to work independently while collaborating across departments Preferred Qualifications: Paylocity experience Nonprofit or educational institution experience Experience with 403(b) retirement plans Knowledge of FMLA, ADA, HIPAA, and workers' compensation administration Why Join: Newly created role with significant ownership and visibility Direct partnership with senior leadership, including the CFO and Controller Mission-driven organization with a collaborative culture Primarily remote work environment with flexibility Excellent healthcare benefits Generous paid time off and holidays 403(b) retirement plan and employer contributions Opportunity to help build and improve payroll processes during an exciting transition $80,000 - $100,000 a year

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