Payroll Specialist

Opto-Knowledge Systems • Torrance, CA

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

Opto-Knowledge Systems, Inc. (OKSI) develops advanced sensing, imaging, and artificial intelligence technologies supporting aerospace, defense, and scientific applications. Our teams work across engineering disciplines to design and deliver innovative electro-optical systems and AI-enabled sensing platforms that solve complex technical challenges. The Payroll Specialist is a part-time (~20 hours/week) role responsible for processing bi-weekly payroll in Paylocity, auditing and reconciling timesheets from Unanet, supporting multi-state employer and tax registration and operations, and assisting with other basic accounting tasks as needed.

Requirements

• Hands-on Paylocity experience preferred
• Familiarity with Unanet or comparable project-based timekeeping/ERP system
• Working knowledge of multi-state payroll tax requirements and employer registration
• Basic accounting knowledge (debits/credits, general ledger coding)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets
• Detail-oriented with strong accuracy in data entry and reconciliation
• Able to manage recurring deadlines independently
• Comfortable wearing multiple hats in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
• Clear written communicator
• Collaborative across HR and Finance functions
• Associate's degree or higher in Accounting, Business, Finance, or related field. Equivalent work experience considered.
• 1–3 years of payroll processing experience, preferably multi-state.
• Government contracting or DCAA-compliant timekeeping experience a plus.
• You must have, or be eligible to obtain, a U.S. Department of Defense Secret security clearance.
• You will be subject to government security investigations and must be able to access classified information.
• The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls and must be a U.S. person as defined by 22 C.F.R.

Nice To Haves

• Government contracting or DCAA-compliant timekeeping experience a plus.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly payroll in Paylocity, including timesheet pulls from Unanet
• Send weekly timesheet reminders; follow up on outstanding submissions before payroll close
• Review timesheets for completeness, charge code accuracy, and proper approvals
• Maintain PTO balances in Unanet and Paylocity
• Onboard new employees into Unanet
• Ensure benefits, withholdings, and garnishments are handled correctly
• Support W-2 preparation and year-end payroll activities
• Register OKSI as an employer in new states as needed (income tax withholding, SUI, and other applicable accounts)
• Coordinate with Finance and Paylocity on state-specific requirements
• Maintain records of state registrations, account numbers, and filing deadlines
• Ensure timely tax filings; coordinate with Paylocity to resolve any missed filings
• Prepare payroll journal entries for month-end general ledger posting
• Reconcile payroll-related balance sheet accounts
• Pull supporting documentation for audits and internal finance reporting
• Assist with A/P, A/R, and invoice postings as needed
• Maintain organized payroll records per applicable recordkeeping requirements
• Support onboarding, offboarding, and personnel change workflows in Paylocity
• Assist with other finance or HR-related tasks as business needs evolve

Benefits

• $28 - $35 hour
• Part-time (~20 hours/week) with anticipated transition to full-time as headcount grows.
• Automatic company contribution to 401K – 5% of earned wages (no matching required)
• In-office (Los Angeles) or remote work (United States) available (position dependent)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree