Senior Payroll Specialist

Coblentz Patch Duffy & Bass LLP

. Administer semi-monthly payroll for employees and partners, including partner draws and periodic distributions for self-employed partners .

Posted 9/24/2026full-timeSan Francisco • California • United StatesSenior💰 $51 - $72 per hourWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates extensive payroll administration capabilities, including compliance with federal and multi-state regulations, advanced proficiency in ADP Workforce Now, and the ability to lead payroll initiatives and process improvements. Strong communication and attention to detail are essential for effectively advising leadership and resolving payroll inquiries.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)ADP Workforce NowCalifornia Wage and Hour LawsMulti-State Payroll ComplianceAdvanced Excel Skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Payroll AdministrationPayroll CompliancePayroll Data EntryPayroll ReportingPayroll System ConfigurationAutomation Improvements401(k) RemittanceEmployment VerificationsPayroll OrientationBank Reconciliation

Soft Skills

Attention to DetailStrong CommunicationConfidentialityProblem-SolvingCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

ADP Workforce NowHRISPayroll Systems

Certifications & Qualifications

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)

Industry Keywords

Law FirmProfessional ServicesERISA CompliancePayroll RegulationsSelf-Employed Partners

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Administer semi-monthly payroll for employees and partners, including partner draws and periodic distributions for self-employed partners
Enter payroll data accurately and timely into ADP Workforce Now
Ensure compliance with federal, multi-state, and local payroll regulations, including jurisdiction setup and closure
Advise leadership on payroll compliance risks and legislative changes
Conduct payroll orientation for new hires covering pay schedules and timekeeping protocols
Troubleshoot, investigate, and resolve employee payroll inquiries
Collaborate with HR, Finance, and firm leadership to provide strategic payroll guidance
Lead payroll initiatives including system upgrades, vendor transitions, and HRIS and system integrations
Evaluate payroll processes and implement automation and efficiency improvements
Oversee payroll system configuration and coding
Prepare scheduled and ad-hoc reports covering earnings, deductions, taxes, and other payroll details
Remit 401(k) deferrals and other benefit contributions in compliance with ERISA and plan requirements
Support monthly bank reconciliations and back up daily cash and receipts reporting
Complete payroll-related forms, employment verifications, and compliance filings
Maintain payroll information on the firm intranet for employee self-service
Maintain confidentiality of employee and partner payroll and personal information
Participate in the American Payroll Association and ongoing professional development

Requirements

What you’ll need

Minimum of 5+ years of progressive, direct payroll experience
Demonstrated knowledge of California wage and hour laws and multi-state payroll compliance
Experience in a law firm or professional services environment
Experience processing payroll for self-employed partners strongly preferred
Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification required
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration preferred
Advanced proficiency with ADP Workforce Now or equivalent payroll system
Advanced Excel skills
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
Strong communication skills with the ability to interact confidently at all levels of the organization, including staff, management, and partners
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism
Ability to sit for long periods, use a computer and phone, talk, listen, read and understand documents, and move and lift up to 10 pounds
Ability to work remotely and on-site in the San Francisco office as needed

Benefits

Comp & perks

Competitive pay
Generous benefits and wellness package
Paid vacation
Platform for growth and development
Ability to see the impact of contributions firsthand
Remote work as needed
On-site work in the San Francisco office as needed