Payroll Specialist (part-time).

We are looking for a Payroll Specialist to be responsible for ensuring the accurate and timely processing of our growing multi-state, multi-entity organization. The position will be a part-time role, approximately 20 hours per week dependent on payroll processing schedules, and is based in San Diego reporting into the office. Reporting to the VP, Human Resources, this role plays a critical part in ensuring payroll compliance, maintaining system integrity and supporting cross-functional teams. The Payroll Specialist will work closely with the finance team to audit processes and identify areas to automate to improve efficiencies. This role requires a critical thinking mindset, problem solving skills, keen attention to detail, with the ability to be highly proactive and organized. The Payroll Specialist must be comfortable navigating complex payroll and finance systems, streamlining processes and taking ownership of our payroll processing.

What You'll Do Here:

• Process payroll on semi-monthly and bi-weekly schedules for a multi-entity, multi-state organization using BambooHR.
• Manage and process 1099 contractor payments in alignment with contract terms.
• Execute payroll transactions including new hires, terminations, employee status changes, timesheet approvals, wage garnishments, and bonus or retroactive payments.
• Review and reconcile hourly employee timesheets to ensure accuracy and compliance with state and federal wage and hour laws (e.g., CA meal/rest penalties, overtime rules).
• Oversee and validate employee expense reimbursements (e.g., travel, parking, meals) via Workamajig, ensuring adherence to the company’s Travel & Expense Reimbursement Policy.
• Reconcile benefit deductions and maintain data integrity across platforms (HRIS, benefits admin systems, 401(k), etc.).
• Support open enrollment by assisting with accurate benefit deduction setup and reporting.
• Maintain and update state and local tax information, including registration for income tax, unemployment, and disability insurance as required.
• Assist with internal audits and support the finance team with quarterly and year-end reporting.
• Respond promptly to payroll-related inquiries from employees and internal stakeholders, including pay details, vacation balances, tax withholdings, and employment verification.
• Ensure compliance with changing federal, state, and local tax laws and payroll regulations.
• Continuously evaluate and improve payroll processes, identifying automation opportunities and contributing to cross-functional efficiencies.
• Stay abreast of all changes in payroll taxation laws and regulations to ensure compliance across all states and jurisdictions.
• Perform other related duties and projects as assigned.

We Need a Person With:

• 3+ years of experience in a payroll processing role for multi-state employer.
• Proficiency and prior experience in payroll tools & software (i.e. BambooHR).
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Data Science, or a related field, preferred.
• Knowledge of federal and state wage and tax laws, FLSA and overtime requirements. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
• Able to work well across multiple departments (Operations, Human Resources, Accounting, etc.). 
• Meets deadlines, prioritizes assignments, and multitasks in a fast-paced environment. 
• Self-motivated, flexible, deadline-oriented and able to complete tasks with limited supervision. 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Familiarity with payroll systems, required (preferably BambooHR).
• Experience with time-tracking systems and processes .
• Expert knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets.
• Well-versed in Microsoft and Mac applications as well as Google Suite.
• Understanding of video meeting platforms (e.g., Zoom, Teams).