Senior Payroll Specialist

D3 Search is actively seeking a Snr. Payroll Specialist on behalf of a top-rated AMLAW ranked global practice with its headquartered offices located in San Francisco, CA (94105).Position TitleSnr. Payroll SpecialistLocation/MapSan Francisco, CA (94105)Employer Work Model:Hybrid 3/2 work model.Position SummaryAs a Senior Payroll Specialist, you'll play a critical role in ensuring seamless payroll operations across assigned pay cycles"”from day-to-day processing to off-cycle runs. You'll be the go-to person for delivering accurate, timely payroll while maintaining compliance across taxes, PTO, and leave records. Beyond execution, you'll help elevate the function by troubleshooting issues, supporting teammates, and driving process improvements that enhance efficiency and client satisfaction. If you're detail-driven, solutions-oriented, and take pride in getting payroll right every time, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful difference.Key ResponsibilitiesVerify accuracy and reasonability of payroll data from multiple systems (e.g., Workday, 3E, WorkForce) and update the payroll database for non-interface changesEnsure all tax forms (e.g., W-4, questionnaires) are properly completed, maintained, and reflected in the payroll systemMaintain correct wage reporting and tax withholding based on employee status, location, and pay structureApply deep knowledge of payroll policies, pay group rules, and wage and hour regulations to ensure compliant processingProcess regular and off-cycle payrolls, including auditing, reporting, and filing with a high degree of accuracyAdminister garnishments end-to-end, including setup, calculations, communications, and payment disbursementManage leave of absence tracking and calculations, applying complex policies and ensuring accurate pay treatmentProcess non-cash benefits, overtime, expenses, and deductions in compliance with firm policies and tax regulationsResearch, reconcile, and support payroll tax compliance, including complex and multi-jurisdictional taxation scenariosProvide responsive, confidential support to employees and stakeholders on payroll, tax, and leave-related inquiries while maintaining thorough documentationCandidate QualificationsBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience) with 6+ years of multi-state and global payroll experienceDeep knowledge of payroll regulations, including federal, state, and local wage and hour lawsStrong understanding of multi-state and remote work tax reporting and withholding; expatriate payroll experience preferredProfessional certification such as APA Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) preferredExperience with integrated business systems, including Ascentis Payroll, WorkForce Software, Workday HCM, and Dayforce HCMWorking knowledge of GDPR, California, and other applicable data privacy regulationsExcellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to produce accurate, detailed work and partner effectively across teamsHighly organized and dependable, with strong technical skills (spreadsheets/databases), sound judgment, confidentiality, and the ability to manage multiple priorities from start to finishAnnual Salary/Compensation& Health Benefits:Starting annual salary/comp. is up to 145K | DOE/DOQ plus a comprehensive health benefits package, generous PTO, paid parking onsite, high functioning & tenured support staff, annual reviews, etc.If interested in this full-time/direct hire Snr. Payroll Specialist role with this respected AMLAW ranked CA-based law practice headquartered in San Francisco, CA (94105), and you meet the above qualifications/requirements, please contact the following D3 rep.:Domenic Ferrante ~ D3 Search??domenic@ |?213-785-2485??D3 Legal Search LLC (aka D3 Search), and its clients are equal opportunity employers. Pursuant to local ordinances, we will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.

Created: 2026-05-09