Payroll Manager

GHJ Search & Staffing is working with a highly respected Los Angeles-based nonprofit educational organization is seeking a Payroll Manager / Accounting Specialist to join its Finance team. This newly created position offers the opportunity to take ownership of payroll operations as the organization transitions payroll in-house.

Payroll Leadership

• Manage and oversee the full payroll cycle for approximately 140-150 employees on a semi-monthly basis
• Review and monitor employee timecards, approvals, missed punches, and payroll-related changes
• Ensure payroll accuracy and compliance with federal, California state, and local regulations
• Administer payroll-related deductions, garnishments, benefits, retirement contributions, leave programs, and tax reporting
• Partner closely with Human Resources on new hires, terminations, employee changes, and payroll-related inquiries
• Prepare payroll audits, quarterly reporting, reconciliations, and compliance documentation
• Serve as the primary payroll resource for employees, managers, and leadership

Accounting & Finance Support

• Prepare payroll-related journal entries and account reconciliations
• Assist with month-end close activities and financial reporting
• Support annual audits and special accounting projects
• Reconcile benefit invoices and retirement plan contributions
• Collaborate with Accounting and HR to strengthen internal controls and improve payroll processes

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field
• 5+ years of accounting experience
• 2+ years of hands-on payroll processing experience
• Strong knowledge of California payroll laws and regulations
• Experience managing payroll compliance, taxes, garnishments, and employee benefits
• Experience preparing payroll journal entries and reconciliations
• Excellent communication and employee service skills
• Strong Excel and HRIS/payroll system experience
• Ability to work independently while collaborating across departments

 

Paylocity experience

Nonprofit or educational institution experience

Experience with 403(b) retirement plans

Knowledge of FMLA, ADA, HIPAA, and workers' compensation administration

Newly created role with significant ownership and visibility

Direct partnership with senior leadership, including the CFO and Controller

Mission-driven organization with a collaborative culture

Primarily remote work environment with flexibility

Excellent healthcare benefits

Generous paid time off and holidays

403(b) retirement plan and employer contributions

Opportunity to help build and improve payroll processes during an exciting transition

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