Payroll Specialists (Santa Barbara)

Company Description Balance Financial Management is a strategic finance partner that integrates directly into client organizations to deliver services ranging from CFO-level support to day-to-day accounting. The team works with startups, large for-profit companies, small businesses, and nonprofits, providing customized financial solutions that prioritize accuracy, transparency, and sustainable growth. Ethical financial management is central to the company’s culture, guided by a focus on people, sound financial philosophy, and best practices. Balance emphasizes data transparency, rigorous compliance, and robust security to help clients make informed decisions and protect their financial information.

Role Description The Payroll Specialist is a full-time (will consider part time), remote role based in Santa Barbara, CA. This role is responsible for managing end-to-end payroll processing for multiple clients, including collecting and verifying timekeeping data, calculating wages, deductions, and benefits, and ensuring timely and accurate payroll runs. The Payroll Specialist will maintain payroll records, respond to employee and client inquiries, and collaborate with accounting and HR teams to resolve discrepancies and support audits. Daily tasks include staying current with tax laws and compliance requirements, preparing payroll reports, assisting with year-end processes, and supporting the implementation of payroll system improvements. The role also involves contributing to a culture of ethical financial management and providing service that aligns with Balance’s standards for accuracy, transparency, and security.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience with payroll processing, including timekeeping, wage calculations, deductions, and benefits administration.
• Strong knowledge of payroll laws and regulations, tax compliance, and best practices in multi-jurisdiction payroll.
• Proficiency with payroll software and accounting systems, along with solid Excel skills and comfort working with financial data.
• Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage deadlines across multiple clients or projects.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain payroll concepts clearly and respond to inquiries professionally.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, maintain confidentiality, and exercise sound judgment in handling sensitive information.
• Prior experience in an accounting, finance, or professional services environment is preferred.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Certification such as Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) is a plus.