Payroll Specialist

Overview

This full-time, first-shift role is for a Certified Payroll Specialist supporting a leading employer in the Santa Clara area. The position manages payroll activities with a focus on accuracy, timeliness, confidentiality, and regulatory compliance—particularly for construction payroll, prevailing wage requirements, and certified payroll reporting for government-funded projects.

The pay range is $30.00 to $40.00 per hour, based on qualifications and experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage the payroll process from data entry and wage calculations through deductions and paycheck preparation.
• Review timekeeping and employee information; maintain accurate, organized records.
• Prepare certified payroll reports and verify that reported wages and benefits meet prevailing wage standards and project requirements.
• Apply payroll regulations associated with government projects, including requirements related to the Davis-Bacon Act.
• Maintain payroll systems by entering new employee details and processing changes to existing records.
• Reconcile payroll information as needed and help identify and resolve discrepancies.
• Respond professionally to employee questions regarding pay, deductions, and payroll records; escalate issues when appropriate.
• Protect confidential employee and compensation information, meet established processing deadlines, and perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 3–5 years of progressive experience processing payroll.
• Strong understanding of applicable federal, state, and local payroll laws.
• Experience desirable in construction payroll and prevailing wage requirements, including:
  • Davis-Bacon Act
  • collective bargaining agreements
  • California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) requirements
• Familiarity with preparing or filing Forms 940, 941, DE 9, and 1095-A.
• Ability to provide two professional references.
• Ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and work effectively under pressure.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Sound knowledge of accounting principles and reconciliations.
• Proficiency with payroll software such as ADP, Paychex, or Workday.
• Careful attention to detail and accuracy.
• Employment may be contingent upon successfully completing a background check and drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related discipline.
• Payroll Professional certification (CPP) or an equivalent credential.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay: $30.00 to $40.00 per hour (based on qualifications and experience)
• Potential benefits may include:
  • Medical, prescription, and wellness benefits
  • Dental and vision plan options
  • Short-term disability coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Holiday pay

Benefit availability, eligibility, and plan terms are subject to applicable program requirements.

Location

• Santa Clara area

Equal Opportunity

Candidates are considered based on job-related qualifications and business needs, without discrimination prohibited by applicable law.