Payroll Specialist: Detail-Driven & Process Optimizer

ATR International; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

ATR International seeks a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join our team. You will support accurate and timely payroll processing while learning payroll systems, procedures, and compliance requirements for employees across multiple states.

The ideal candidate is curious, resourceful, and comfortable asking questions, with training provided. No prior payroll experience required, making this a strong entry-to-mid level opportunity within a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in a related field (see above).
• Strong attention to detail and comfort with numbers and data.
• Analytical and creative problem-solving skills, including discrepancy investigations.
• Curiosity, initiative, and willingness to learn payroll systems and complex requirements.
• Ability to follow procedures while identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage deadlines and priorities.
• Clear written and verbal communication and a collaborative approach.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel (formulas, sorting, filtering).
• Discretion handling sensitive information.

Responsibilities

• Assist with payroll processing for hourly and salaried employees, including client assignments.
• Review time records and payroll inputs for accuracy and completeness.
• Research discrepancies and collaborate to resolve issues.
• Support deductions, garnishments, adjustments, and off-cycle payments as needed.
• Learn and follow federal, state, and local payroll requirements and procedures.
• Assist with payroll reconciliations, reporting, tax documentation, and audit prep.
• Respond to employee payroll questions professionally and escalate complex issues.
• Collaborate with HR, Finance and other teams to gather information.
• Identify opportunities to simplify workflows and reduce errors.
• Support payroll system testing, updates and process documentation.
• Maintain confidentiality and accuracy of payroll records.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical thinking

Curiosity and initiative

Communication skills

Discretion with sensitive information

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

ATR International seeks a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join our team. You will support accurate and timely payroll processing while learning payroll systems, procedures, and compliance requirements for employees across multiple states.

The ideal candidate is curious, resourceful, and comfortable asking questions, with training provided. No prior payroll experience required, making this a strong entry-to-mid level opportunity within a collaborative environment.