• Payroll Specialist

    Robert Half Accountemps (Palo Alto, CA)


    Description

    Description of the Position

     

    We’re partnering with a growing company in Palo Alto that’s looking for a Payroll Specialist to join their HR/People team. This role is a key part of ensuring accurate and timely payroll for a mixed workforce of hourly and salaried employees. The ideal candidate has strong experience with bi-weekly payroll cycles, knows their way around modern payroll systems, and can collaborate cross-functionally with HR and finance.

    Key Responsibilities

    + Process bi-weekly payroll for 100–150 employees, including hourly, salaried, and seasonal staff

    + Manage onboarding and offboarding changes in payroll system (status, pay rates, deductions, etc.)

    + Ensure payroll is accurate, on time, and compliant with federal and state labor laws

    + Handle garnishments, benefits deductions, taxes, bonuses, and retro pay adjustments

    + Reconcile payroll reports and resolve discrepancies

    + Generate payroll-related reports for finance and audits

    + Support audits and maintain up-to-date payroll documentation and records

    + Respond to employee payroll questions and provide support with professionalism

    Requirements

    Qualifications & Skills

     

    + 3+ years of payroll processing experience, preferably in a high-volume or fast-paced environment

    + Strong understanding of payroll compliance, wage and hour laws, and multi-state payroll

    + High level of confidentiality and accuracy

    + Strong communication skills and ability to work across departments

    + Experience with seasonal or rapidly scaling teams is a plus

    + Nonprofit or startup experience is a bonus

    + Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, HR, or related field preferred

    Software Experience

    + Proficiency in ADP Workforce Now (preferred) or similar platforms like Gusto, Paychex, or Rippling

    + Experience with QuickBooks for payroll reconciliation and reporting

    + Familiarity with Excel for payroll data analysis

    + Bonus points for experience with Ramp, Bill.com, or HRIS systems integrated with payroll

     

    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 to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.

     

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