Job Information
Robert Half Payroll Specialist Lead in San Mateo, California
Description
Payroll Specialist Lead
Robert Half, San Mateo, California, United States (Hybrid)
The Payroll Lead is responsible for ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant payroll operations while providing functional leadership and support to the payroll team. This role serves as the primary escalation point for payroll issues and a subject matter expert on federal, state, and local payroll regulations. The Payroll Lead partners with HR, Finance, and other departments to drive efficient payroll processes and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
Payroll Operations
Oversee end-to-end payroll processing, including review, validation, and complex transactions
Act as the primary escalation point for payroll issues and employee inquiries
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including California wage and hour laws
Support payroll and timekeeping systems, including testing (UAT), upgrades, and troubleshooting
Manage year-end processes, including W-2 and W-2C processing, and annual escheat reporting
Maintain and update payroll procedures and documentation
Leadership & Oversight
Provide daily workflow oversight, assign tasks, and review work for accuracy
Mentor and support payroll team members
Serve as backup for all payroll functions as needed
Audit & Compliance
Review and approve complex payroll adjustments (retro pay, terminations, off-cycle payments, etc.)
Conduct payroll audits, reconciliations, and resolve discrepancies
Partner with HR, Finance, Compliance, and Labor Relations on escalated matters
Requirements
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field
4+ years of progressive payroll experience
Strong experience with California payroll regulations; healthcare or union experience preferred
Workday Payroll a Must
High Volume large employee size 2k+
Intermediate Excel skills
Key Skills:
Strong attention to detail and ability to handle confidential information
Excellent organization, prioritization, and multitasking abilities
Ability to work cross-functionally and meet tight deadlines
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Proven ability to lead, mentor, and train others
Why Join the FTEP Practice:
Full-time salary with benefits, uncapped bonus opportunities and paid time off
Diverse project experience across multiple industries
Ongoing training and professional development
Opportunity to build your skills and grow your career
Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.
Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.
All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available including medical, vision, dental, life and disability insurance. Employees hired for our FTEP Program are also eligible to enroll in our company’s 401(k) or deferred compensation plan (if eligible). FTEP employees also earn paid time off for vacation, personal needs, and sick time and paid holidays. The amount of Choice Time Off (CTO) received varies based on years of service and is pro-rated based on the hours worked per week. A new FTEP employee earns up to 13 days of CTO and up to 10 paid holidays per calendar year. Learn more at roberthalfbenefits.com/Resources.
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