Payroll Accountant

General Atomics; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 56,820 - 96,015; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Accountant in San Diego, California. The role focuses on overseeing payroll and leave programs, ensuring accurate processing, and compliance with regulations.

A qualified candidate should have a bachelor’s degree in accounting, along with skills in payroll processing and data analysis. Candidates will benefit from a competitive salary range of $56,820 to $96,015.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of progressive experience in payroll or accounting.
• In-depth knowledge of payroll processes and compliance.
• Experience in a multi-state environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee payroll components for employee leave programs.
• Ensure compliance with payroll regulations and company policies.
• Utilize HRIS systems for accurate data management.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Data analysis

Excellent communication

Education

Bachelor's or master's degree in accounting

Tools

Microsoft Excel

SAP

SuccessFactors

Job description

Job Summary

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world’s leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

We are seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Accountant to oversee and track all labor and payroll aspects of the company leave of absence programs. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely processing of leave-related payroll, maintaining compliance with applicable regulations, and supporting the integrity of payroll and financial data.

The ideal candidate will play a key role in managing payroll calculations, reconciliations, and reporting related to employee leave programs, while partnering cross-functionally with IT, Benefits, Labor Compliance, Leaves and Labor Accounting departments to ensure alignment, system accuracy, and continuous process improvement.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Payroll & Leave Administration

• Oversee and monitor payroll components associated with employee leave programs, including Short-Term Illness (STI), Family and Medical Leave (FMLA), Paid Parental Leave (PPL), and other applicable leave programs.
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of leave-related payroll transactions.
• Calculate employee compensation during leave in accordance with company leave programs and federal, state, and local regulations including state required offsets.
• Coordinate with multi-state agencies to ensure compliance and proper alignment of benefits and payroll.

Accounting, Reconciliation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate payroll and leave records to support financial reporting and internal controls.
• Perform reconciliations of company-paid leave across multiple states, identifying and resolving discrepancies.
• Support internal and external audits by preparing required documentation and reports.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations and company policies.
• Partner with Benefits, Leave Administration, and Labor Accounting teams to manage documentation, adjustments, and reporting requirements.

Systems & Process Improvement

• Utilize payroll and HRIS systems (e.g., SAP, SuccessFactors) to ensure accurate data management and reporting.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance payroll accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
• Support system enhancements, testing, and process standardization initiatives.
• Analyze payroll and leave data to identify trends, issues, and opportunities for improvement.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in accounting or a related discipline and three or more years of progressive experience in finance, payroll, accounting with a bachelor's degree, or at least one year of experience with a master's degree.
• May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education. Preferred CPP (Certified Payroll Professional).
• Must have in-depth knowledge of payroll processes and compliance requirements.
• Experience with calculating and processing leave of absence pay, which includes coordination of company leave programs, including required state offsets.
• Knowledge of state mandated disability and paid and/or bonding leave programs.
• Experience with payroll reconciliations, audits, and reporting.
• Experience in a multi-state environment highly desired.
• Proficient in using MS Office applications, particularly Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Proficient with HRIS systems and payroll software, SAP experience is highly desired.
• Attention to detail and problem‑solving skills with the ability to identify and resolve payroll-related issues.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data and develop effective solutions to complex issues.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across all levels.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with a customer service mindset.
• Ability to work extended hours as needed.

Job Type: Full-Time Salary

Salary range: 56,820 - 96,015