Payroll Manager

Job Description

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Payroll Consultant to support our organization in overseeing a payroll system implementation on a long-term 2 years+ contract basis. The ideal candidate will bring proven expertise in California public sector payroll administration, ensuring compliance with state and local labor laws, collective bargaining with the ability to collaborate across departments and provide guidance on best practices. This role will be located onsite in Downey, CA.

Key Responsibilities :

Manage end-to-end payroll processing for public sector employees, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance

Ensure compliance with California labor laws, union agreements, and public agency reporting requirements.

Serve as a subject matter expert for payroll practices, advising leadership on policies, procedures, and regulatory updates. payroll systems, generating reports and audits as needed.

Manage employee inquiries and resolve payroll issues promptly and effectively.

Partner with Finance, Legal, and other departments to streamline processes and maintain accurate documentation.

Supervise payroll staff and provide training, mentorship, and performance feedback.

Qualifications :

Bachelor’s degree in, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field (Master’s preferred).

Minimum 5+ years of payroll management experience, with at least 3 years in a California public sector environment (city, county, state, special district, or education agency).

Strong knowledge of CalPERS, CalSTRS, FLSA, and California wage and hour laws.

Experience with collective bargaining agreements and union negotiations preferred.

Proficiency in payroll (e.g., PeopleSoft, ADP, Workday, SAP, Tyler Munis).

Excellent organizational, analytical, and interpersonal skills with the ability to manage confidential information.

Strong leadership skills and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Prior managerial experience, in this role you will manage / supervise staff of 10 people

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field; a Master’s degree is preferred.
• At least 5 years of payroll management experience, with 3 years in a California public sector environment.
• Thorough understanding of CalPERS, CalSTRS, and California wage and hour laws.
• Familiarity with collective bargaining agreements and union negotiations is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in payroll systems such as PeopleSoft, Workday, Tyler Munis, ADP.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to handle confidential information responsibly.
• Proven leadership capabilities and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Experience managing payroll for large organizations, including multi-state payroll and employee groups exceeding 500.