Senior Payroll Specialist

Senior Payroll Specialist (Contract-to-Hire/Direct Hire)

Location: Pasadena
Compensation: $35-$48 per hour, depending on experience Must have experience with ADP Position Summary


We are seeking an experienced Senior Payroll Specialist to oversee complex payroll operations and support compliance initiatives across the organization. This role will be responsible for processing payroll, interpreting union and non-union pay requirements, ensuring regulatory compliance, supporting audits, and assisting with payroll system enhancements.


The ideal candidate is a hands-on payroll professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys problem-solving, and can work independently while partnering closely with accounting and leadership teams.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Administration

• Support full-cycle payroll processing for hourly and salaried employees
• Review and validate payroll data for accuracy and completeness
• Assist with timekeeping, payroll adjustments, garnishments, and employee record maintenance
• Ensure payroll deadlines are met consistently and accurately

Compliance & Reporting

• Prepare and submit required federal, state, and local payroll filings
• Generate and reconcile payroll-related reports, including tax, benefits, and labor reporting
• Maintain compliance with wage and hour regulations, payroll tax requirements, and company policies
• Stay informed of payroll legislation changes and assist with implementation efforts

Audits & Controls

• Conduct regular payroll audits to ensure data accuracy and regulatory compliance
• Review payroll transactions and identify discrepancies for resolution
• Support year-end activities, including W-2 processing and annual reconciliations
• Assist with internal and external audits, including workers' compensation and benefit-related reviews

Systems & Process Improvement

• Help troubleshoot payroll system issues and participate in testing of system updates
• Recommend process improvements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and compliance
• Assist with payroll-related projects and departmental initiatives

Employee Support

• Serve as a resource for employee payroll inquiries
• Provide timely and professional assistance regarding pay, deductions, taxes, and payroll records
• Partner with management to provide payroll reports and support business needs

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; additional payroll or accounting coursework is a plus
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation preferred
• Several years of progressive payroll experience, including exposure to union and non-union environments
• Strong understanding of payroll regulations, tax reporting, and compliance requirements
• Experience with payroll software, HRIS systems, and Microsoft Excel
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy

Pay Details: $35.00 to $48.00 per hour

Search managed by: Allison Lau


Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.


Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Military connected talent encouraged to apply

To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to

The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act
• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.