Payroll Specialist

Los Angeles LGBT Center•Los Angeles, CA

21d•$34 - $36•Onsite

About The Position

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for accurate and timely payroll processing for all employees at the Los Angeles LGBT Center. Reporting to the Payroll Supervisor, the role verifies payroll data, coordinates employment status changes, manages benefits deductions, responds to payroll inquiries, and supports payroll-related projects. It requires attention to detail, analytical skills, and compliance with payroll laws and organizational values. The Finance Department handles financial and accounting matters for the Center’s ten locations throughout the Los Angeles area and provides timely financial reporting to support the Center’s services. This is a full-time, 100%, non-exempt, confidential position. Work is performed primarily in an office environment. Employment is subject to compliance with the Center’s COVID-19 vaccination policy, subject to applicable laws. The position has a 90-day probation period.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
At least 2 years of experience in payroll processing or a related field.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Experience with HRIS and payroll software systems.
Strong mathematical and data analysis skills.
Working knowledge of payroll principles, laws, regulations, and best practices, particularly in California.
Familiarity with payroll processes, including benefits deductions, garnishments, and tax compliance.
Ability to navigate complex union environments.
No license or certification is required.
Ability to sit for prolonged periods while using a computer and workstation.
Manual dexterity and repetitive hand motion for data entry and use of payroll software.
Ability to read screens and printed materials.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of issues relevant to the LGBTQ community is preferred.
Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field is a plus.
Experience with ADP Workforce Now or similar payroll systems.
Ability to work effectively with diverse populations in a multicultural environment.
Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation or equivalent certification is a plus.
Bilingual skills, particularly English/Spanish fluency, are preferred.

Responsibilities

Process semi-monthly payroll for all employees accurately and on time.
Review and verify timesheets, attendance records, and other payroll data for completeness and correctness.
Calculate and process payroll adjustments, deductions, and garnishments.
Coordinate with People & Culture to process new hires, terminations, and employment status changes.
Ensure employee data, including hours worked, taxes, and benefits deductions, is accurate.
Manage deductions for employee benefits, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and flexible spending accounts.
Collaborate with People & Culture and Finance to reconcile payroll-related accounts and resolve discrepancies under the Payroll Supervisor’s guidance.
Respond to employee inquiries about pay, taxes, deductions, and related matters with a customer-service focus.
Generate payroll reports and analyze data for trends, discrepancies, and opportunities to improve processes.
Stay informed about payroll laws, regulations, and best practices to ensure compliance.
Use payroll software systems to streamline payroll processes and improve efficiency.
Identify and recommend improvements to payroll systems and procedures to improve accuracy and user experience.
Support staff training on payroll policies, procedures, and systems.
Serve as a payroll subject matter expert, providing guidance and assistance to colleagues.
Perform other duties as assigned.