Payroll Specialist

Meruelo Enterprises, Inc.; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Meruelo Enterprises, located in Downey, CA, is seeking a Payroll Specialist to timely process company payroll and ensure compliance with governmental and union regulations.

The role requires 5+ years of payroll experience, including union payroll or certified payroll reporting, and construction-industry knowledge. Strong data entry, accuracy, and ability to work under pressure are essential.

Qualifications

• Requires 5+ years of payroll processing experience.
• Experience preparing union or certified payroll reports preferred.
• Construction industry payroll knowledge a plus.
• Strong understanding of federal, state and local tax filings and payroll regulations.

Responsibilities

• Enters timesheet and equipment information into the payroll system.
• Reviews timesheet information for inconsistencies and follows up with Supervisors.
• Reconciles payroll entries, corrections and labor/equipment transfers.
• Ensures all required paperwork is received on time.
• Prepares manual checks as needed.
• Responds to inquiries from government agencies.
• Prepares and submits certified payroll per contracts.
• Prints and files various payroll reports.
• Addresses employee payroll issues.
• Assists HR with company-wide programs and procedures.
• Prepares monthly union reports.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Attention to detail

Team environment

Communication skills

Adaptability

Data entry accuracy

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Spectrum software

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

At Meruelo Enterprises, we’re building more than infrastructure, we’re building communities, careers, and a better tomorrow.

Founded in 1986 and proudly minority-owned, we’ve grown into one of California’s leading construction and engineering firms, serving major utility, transportation, and telecom clients across the West Coast. With a talented team of over 2,500 professionals and a family of top-tier subsidiaries, we deliver innovative, high-impact solutions in gas, electric, water, and more.

From the ground up, we’re committed to safety, quality, and integrity. If you're looking to be part of a fast-growing, mission-driven company making a real difference, welcome to Meruelo Enterprises.

About the Role:

Meruelo Enterprises located in the city of Downey, CA is looking for a Payroll Specialist to timely process Company payroll and comply with all governmental and union regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Enters timesheet and equipment information into the Company’s payroll system.
• Reviews timesheet information for inconsistent or conflicting information. Follows up with Supervisors for resolution.
• Reconciles payroll entries, corrections and transfers of labor and equipment when necessary.
• Ensures all required paperwork is received on a timely manner.
• Prepares manual checks as needed.
• Responds to inquiries from various governmental agencies
• Prepares and submits certified payroll in compliance with contracts
• Prints and files various reports
• Respond to employee issues related to payroll matters
• Assists department in carrying out various human resources programs and procedures for all company employees.
• Prepare monthly union reports
• Other necessary and required duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required.
• Must have a minimum of (5) years’ experience processing payroll
• Must have experience preparing union payroll reports and/or certified payroll reports.
• Must have payroll experience working in the construction industry
• A working knowledge of all federal, state and local tax filings is preferred.
• A working knowledge of all federal, state and local payroll regulations is preferred.
• A working knowledge of processing union payroll and compliance matters is preferred.
• A working knowledge or certified payroll and labor compliance is preferred.
• General knowledge of the various disciplines and procedures utilized by the Construction industry is preferred.
• Ability to stay focused and work without close supervision.
• Works well in a team environment as well as independently.
• Ability to accurately enter data and perform mathematical calculations.
• Able to adjust priorities on short notice, manage interruptions and work well under pressure.
• Ability to timely meet deadlines; coordinate workloads with Supervisor.
• Effective communication, organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Complies with and maintains company confidentiality practices and policies.
• Interacts professionally with all company employees and outside persons, such as customers, vendors and professional service providers.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and knowledge of spreadsheet applications.
• Spectrum software experience preferred, but not required.
• Manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination are necessary.
• Mental alertness is necessary to ensure accurate and thorough completion of work activities.
• Ability to interpret and disseminate complex information appropriate and effectively.
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods and efficiently operate computer, calculator, copier, fax and other business office equipment.
• Comply with accounting and all other company policies, procedures, as well as all relevant federal, state and local reporting requirements.
• Working conditions consist of temperature-controlled office; noise level in work environment is usually low

At Meruelo, we believe that diverse teams drive innovation and better business outcomes. We are dedicated to fostering a culture where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to bring their whole selves to work. We actively encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.