LHH recruitment is partnering with a non-profit client to hire a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Accountant for a contract role in Emeryville, California. This role is responsible for managing all aspects of payroll processing, ensuring compliance with federal and state payroll regulations, and supporting related accounting functions. The ideal candidate has strong knowledge of payroll systems, general accounting principles, and enjoys working in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

PLEASE NOTE: All duties for this role are performed at the client’s office in Emeryville, California.

Key Responsibilities:

• Process bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll for exempt and non-exempt employees across multiple states.

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll, wage, and hour laws and best practices.

• Maintain and reconcile payroll-related accounts, including payroll liabilities and accruals.

• Prepare and file payroll tax returns and support year-end tax processes, including W-2 and 1099 issuance.

• Partner with HR on employee changes (new hires, terminations, benefits deductions, compensation updates).

• Review and audit timesheets for completeness and accuracy; resolve discrepancies as needed.

• Reconcile payroll reports and prepare journal entries in accordance with GAAP.

• Maintain accurate employee records and confidentiality of payroll information.

• Assist with audits (internal and external) and provide payroll documentation as required.

• Stay current on changing payroll laws and recommend process improvements.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

• 3+ years of payroll accounting experience; multi-state payroll experience strongly preferred.

• Proficient with payroll software (e.g., ADP, Paychex, Gusto, or equivalent).

• Strong understanding of payroll laws, tax filings, garnishments, and benefits deductions.

• Solid knowledge of accounting principles and payroll accounting best practices.

• Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, v-lookups, formulas).

• High attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and a proactive attitude.

• Experience working in a mid-size to large organization or shared services environment is a plus.

• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification is a plus but not required.

Next Steps:

Please include your current resume with your online application.

Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

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The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act
• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance