Payroll Specialist

We are looking for a Payroll Specialist to join a hospitality-focused organization in Pacific Grove, California on a Contract basis. This position supports accurate pay administration and day-to-day accounting activity, with a strong emphasis on payroll, accounts payable, and accounts receivable. The ideal candidate brings a sharp eye for detail, works well under deadlines, and is comfortable managing financial processes in a fast-moving service environment.

Responsibilities:

• Administer payroll on a regular schedule, ensuring employee compensation is calculated correctly and submitted on time.
• Audit time and attendance records through workforce management systems before finalizing payroll data.
• Maintain payroll files, prepare related reports, and respond to questions or discrepancies involving employee pay.
• Oversee accounts payable from invoice review through coding and payment completion, keeping records accurate and current.
• Handle accounts receivable tasks by issuing invoices, monitoring incoming payments, following up on outstanding balances, and reconciling customer accounts.
• Compare vendor statements against internal records and investigate billing issues to reach timely resolution.
• Contribute to month-end accounting activities by confirming payroll, payables, and receivables are posted correctly.
• Partner with operations and staffing teams to verify hours worked and help ensure timely, accurate payments.
• Organize financial documentation and support adherence to established accounting practices and internal policies.
• At least 2 years of experience in payroll administration and AP/AR support.
• Demonstrated ability to manage full-cycle payroll in a high-volume environment; experience with multi-state payroll is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency with payroll and accounting platforms such as Paylocity and QuickBooks Advanced Online; familiarity with Nowsta or comparable timekeeping software is an advantage.
• Background using payroll systems such as ADP Workforce Now or similar enterprise tools is beneficial.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain accuracy across payroll, invoicing, and reconciliations.
• Ability to prioritize multiple deadlines effectively in a fast-paced hospitality, events, or service-based setting.
• Clear communication and sound problem-solving skills when working across departments and resolving payment issues.
• Spanish bilingual ability is a plus, but not required.