Senior Payroll Specialist: 26-00113

SENIOR PAYROLL SPECIALIST
 
Location: Huntington Beach, CA (Onsite; with possible future hybrid)
 
JOB DESCRIPTION
 
As Senior Payroll Specialist, you will support payroll operations by ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time. This role is responsible for processing payroll data, maintaining employee records, and assisting with payroll-related inquiries. The ideal candidate has strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience handling confidential financial information. This position will serve as the primary backup to the Payroll Manager and offers significant opportunities for career growth as the company continues to expand through acquisitions.
 
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
 

• Process multiple payrolls from start to finish using ADP Workforce Now for a workforce exceeding 2,000 employees across multiple locations and states.
• Manage weekly and bi-weekly payroll cycles while ensuring accuracy and timely delivery.
• Review payroll submissions from HR leaders across various sites and identify discrepancies, questions, or required adjustments.
• Provide oversight and guidance to site HR teams regarding payroll-related matters.
• Administer time and attendance processes using ADP Time and Attendance.
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and California payroll regulations.
• Support ADP SmartCompliance activities and ensure proper tax and compliance reporting.
• Process off-cycle payrolls and urgent payments in a high-volume, high-turnover environment.
• Manage 401(k) deductions and related payroll activities.
• Assist with internal audits and SOX compliance initiatives.
• Serve as backup to the Payroll Manager and assume additional responsibilities during absences.
• Respond to payroll-related inquiries and manage departmental communications.
• Recommend and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and strengthen controls.
• Support the integration of newly acquired companies and future payroll expansions.

 
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
 

• 5+ years of end-to-end payroll processing experience.
• Extensive experience with ADP Workforce Now (WFN).
• Strong knowledge of ADP Time and Attendance tool.
• Experience with ADP SmartCompliance OR deep expertise in California payroll compliance.
• Multi-state and multi-site payroll experience supporting employee populations of 2,000+.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including Pivot Tables and VLOOKUP.
• Experience working in high-volume, fast-paced environments such as manufacturing, distribution, or warehousing.
• Ability to process urgent payroll requests and off-cycle checks with minimal notice.
• Experience administering 401(k) payroll deductions.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Proactive approach and continuous improvement mindset.
• Ability to quickly learn new processes and adapt to changing priorities.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Strong team player with a customer-focused attitude.

 
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
 

• Experience supporting mergers and acquisitions, including registering new entities in multiple states.
• Experience with SOX controls and audit processes.
• Background working for a publicly traded company.
• Manufacturing or industrial industry experience.
• Experience mentoring or supervising junior payroll team members.