Certified Payroll Specialist

Company: LHH US
Location: Chula Vista
Posted on: February 18, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description LHH is proud to partner with a reputable and growing small construction company that values accuracy, integrity, and strong operational support. As the company continues to expand its project workload, they are seeking a Certified Payroll Specialist who can confidently own the weekly payroll process while also supporting accounts receivable, billing, and lien release administration. This is an excellent role for someone who thrives in a small-team environment, enjoys variety in their day-to-day work, and understands the unique compliance requirements of construction payroll. Key Responsibilities Process weekly payroll for roughly 50 employees, ensuring accuracy and compliance with federal, state, and local labor regulations. Prepare, review, and submit Certified Payroll Reports (CPRs) for public works projects in accordance with: California DIR Davis-Bacon Act Local prevailing wage mandates Verify job classifications, wage determinations, fringe benefits, and required documentation for labor-compliance accuracy. Utilize platforms such as LCP Tracker, DIR, PRISM, or similar tools to upload, monitor, and validate certified payroll data. Maintain organized, audit-ready payroll files and assist with agency audits when needed. General Payroll Operations Reconcile employee timecards, PTO, and job-cost allocations. Research and resolve payroll discrepancies promptly. Maintain accurate and current payroll records aligned with weekly deadlines. Accounts Receivable, Billing & Project Documentation Prepare and issue billing packets to customers, ensuring accuracy in quantities, billable rates, job codes, and required backup documentation. Track and follow up on outstanding accounts receivable to support consistent cash flow. Coordinate with project managers to verify billable progress and change orders. Support month-end AR reporting, reconciliations, and customer correspondence. Lien Releases & Compliance Documents Prepare accurate conditional and unconditional lien releases, tied to progress and final payments. Track preliminary notices, retention balances, and project-specific compliance paperwork. Ensure lien documentation aligns with job billing and customer pay schedules. Qualifications 2-5 years of payroll experience, ideally with certified payroll exposure in the construction industry. Strong knowledge of prevailing wage laws (DIR, Davis-Bacon) and public works compliance. Hands-on experience with AR, billing, and lien releases in a construction environment. Proficiency in payroll/timekeeping software (QuickBooks, Sage, Paycom, or similar). Strong Excel skills and ability to manually audit timecards. Excellent attention to detail, communication skills, and follow-through. Bilingual Spanish is a plus. Why Work With This Company Stable and respected local contractor with long-term employees Supportive leadership and a collaborative office culture Opportunity to take full ownership of critical payroll and billing functions How to Apply LHH is managing the search and candidate experience on behalf of this client. To express interest or learn more, please reach out directly and we will ensure your information is handled with full confidentiality. Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision insurance Vacation Time and Sick Time Holidays Flexible schedule Pay Details: $65,000.00 to $78,000.00 per year Search managed by: Erin Kile Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled Military connected talent encouraged to apply To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.lhh.com/us/en/candidate -privacy The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable: The California Fair Chance Act Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Keywords: LHH US, Highland , Certified Payroll Specialist, Accounting, Auditing , Chula Vista, California