Senior Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist (Full-Time, Hybrid – San Mateo & Palo Alto)

Engagement Professional Practice Group – Robert Half

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and reliable Payroll Specialist to join our Engagement Professional Practice Group. This is a full-time, hybrid role supporting clients in the San Mateo and Palo Alto areas. As an Engagement Professional, you will be a full-time employee of Robert Half, deployed on a variety of client assignments while maintaining consistent employment and benefits.

Key Responsibilities

• Process full-cycle, multi-state payroll on a weekly, bi-weekly, or semi-monthly basis
• Ensure payroll is accurate, timely, and compliant with federal, state, and local regulations
• Maintain and audit payroll records, including earnings, deductions, and tax withholdings
• Handle employee inquiries related to payroll, benefits deductions, and timekeeping
• Reconcile payroll accounts and assist with month-end and year-end close processes
• Prepare payroll reports for internal and client use
• Support audits by providing required payroll documentation
• Collaborate with HR and accounting teams on employee data changes and compliance matters
• Stay current on payroll laws and best practices

Qualifications

• 2+ years of payroll processing experience
• Experience with multi-state payroll strongly preferred
• Familiarity with payroll systems such as ADP, Paychex, Workday, or similar
• Strong understanding of payroll regulations and compliance requirements
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Work Environment

• Hybrid schedule supporting clients in San Mateo and Palo Alto
• Flexibility to adapt to different client environments and systems
• Full-time, benefited role as part of Robert Half’s Engagement Professional Practice Group