Senior Payroll Specialist

This role follows a hybrid/remote work model.

Ideally, the candidate will be located near Pomona, CA, to provide occasional on-site support as needed, particularly for time-sensitive tasks like final paychecks (e.g., live checks for California terminations).

However, we are open to fully remote candidates who meet all other qualifications, with the expectation of traveling to Pomona, CA, for initial onboarding and training during the first week of employment.

Summary:

The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for accurate, timely payroll processing across union and non-union sites, including California.

This role manages end-to-end payroll functions, supports audits, ensures compliance, and collaborates on system updates and process improvements with the HR Operations and Payroll Supervisor.

A working knowledge of accounting principles is essential for accurate entries and proper GL coding.

The specialist also partners with Accounting on journal entries, reconciliations, and reporting.

Additionally, this role co-manages Leave of Absence (LOA) processes, working cross-functionally with HR, Benefits, and site leadership to ensure correct payroll impacts and compliance with leave policies.

Responsibilities:

Payroll Processing & Accuracy


* Process bi-weekly and off-cycle payroll for hourly and salaried employees across multiple locations, ensuring accuracy and compliance with wage laws and internal policies.


* Maintain and audit payroll data in UKG, including hires, terminations, pay changes, bonuses, commissions, RSUs, garnishments, benefits, and deductions.


* Serve as a backup for union payroll and provide subject-matter expertise on union payroll practices and compliance.


* Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies to ensure timely and accurate payments.

Compliance & Reporting


* Ensure payroll compliance with federal, state (especially California), and local tax and wage laws.


* Support timely submission of government filings, garnishments, and other statutory reporting.


* Assist with audits by providing accurate and timely payroll data and documentation.


* Stay current on payroll legislation and best practices; communicate key updates to the HR Operations and Payroll Supervisor and team.

Accounting & Financial Support


* Apply basic accounting knowledge to support payroll-related financial processes and GL impact.


* Partner with Accounting to ensure accurate GL coding, payroll expense allocation, and reconciliations.


* Review payroll reports, tax reconciliations, and journal entries for accuracy and completeness.


* Support payroll components of month-end and year-end close.

Leave of Absence (LOA) Management


* Co-manage LOA processes with HR and Benefits, ensuring accurate tracking, pay adjustments, and return-to-work transitions.


* Review LOA-related payroll inputs for accuracy and compliance.


* Support payroll integration of LOA updates and resolve relat...