Certified Payroll Specialist
Position Overview
We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Certified Payroll Specialist with deep expertise, preferably in construction trucking payroll operations. This role requires a proactive professional who will take full ownership of our Certified Payroll and labor compliance processes while continuously identifying opportunities for improvement and efficiency.
Required QualificationsExperience & Expertise
• Minimum 5 years of certified payroll experience in the construction or trucking industry. Experience with LCP Tracker and/or DIR preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of AB5 compliance and contractor classification requirements, including contractor vs. employee classification
• Proven experience processing wage and certified payroll reports
• Strong understanding of construction trucking industry-specific payroll requirements, including union payroll, fringe benefits, and multi-state compliance
• Experience with federal and state prevailing wage projects (Caltrans and DIR)
Technical Skills
• Proficiency in certified payroll software and reporting systems (LCP Tracker, DIR online portal)
• QuickBooks experience preferred for payroll verification and reporting
• Strong Excel skills and experience with payroll management systems
• Experience with dispatch/timesheet systems
• Ability to prepare and submit certified payroll reports to government agencies
• Understanding of federal and state wage and hour laws, including prevailing wage rates
• Familiarity with Caltrans File Transfer systems and document management
Key ResponsibilitiesCertified Payroll Processing & Compliance
• Process Ownership: Take complete accountability for all aspects of certified payroll processing and labor compliance, from data collection through final reporting and compliance verification
• Contract Analysis: Review project contracts to identify Caltrans numbers, DIR numbers, federal contract numbers, wage determinations, and reporting requirements
• Certified Payroll Management: Prepare, review, and submit accurate certified payroll reports for public works projects in compliance with federal and state requirements
• Form Preparation: Complete and submit all required forms including:
• Caltrans Forms: CEM 2502 (Employees), CEM 2503 (Statement of Compliance), CEM 2501 (Fringe Benefits Statement)
• DIR Forms: A-1-131, Notice to Public Entity, Non-Performance forms
• Additional project-specific forms: DAS 140, DAS 142
• Multi-System Data Entry: Input payroll data into LCP Tracker, DIR online portal, and Caltrans systems as required by project specifications
• Wage Determination: Research and apply correct prevailing wage rates by county using DIR website and federal wage determination schedules
Subcontractor & Owner-Operator Management
• Sub-Hauler Payroll: Process and verify certified payroll for subcontractors and owner-operators, including separate fringe benefit calculations
• Sub-Hauler Statements: Prepare monthly sub-hauler payment summaries and coordinate check distribution
Data Management & Verification
• Cross-System Verification: Reconcile hours and payments across certified payroll forms to ensure accuracy
• Attention to Detail: Maintain meticulous accuracy in all payroll calculations, classifications, and reporting—errors are not acceptable in this role
Compliance & Audit Management
• AB5 Compliance: Ensure proper classification of workers under California AB5 regulations, maintaining thorough documentation and audit trails
• Audit Readiness: Maintain comprehensive records and documentation to support internal and external audits
• Caltrans Audits: Respond to audit requests by gathering and submitting required documentation including cashed checks, invoices, paid sub statements, timesheets, QB bills and payments reports, and fringe benefit calculations
• Document Management: Upload required documents to Caltrans File Transfer system and maintain organized records for all projects
Tax & Regulatory Reporting
• IFTA Management: File quarterly International Fuel Tax Agreement returns through CDTFA portal and order annual decal stickers
Communication & Problem Resolution
• Inquiry Management: Handle complaints and inquiries from subcontractors via phone, text, and email with professionalism and efficiency
• Issue Resolution: Investigate payment discrepancies, missing tickets, and payroll concerns, documenting issues in relevant systems and coordinating with appropriate team members
• Stakeholder Communication: Collaborate with project managers, estimators, compliance staff and contractors to obtain necessary information and ensure reporting deadlines are met
Process Management & Documentation
• Project Tracking: Maintain detailed notes for all CPR projects, updating status and documenting incomplete weeks or missing information
• Process Improvement: Proactively identify inefficiencies and recommend solutions to streamline payroll operations and enhance compliance protocols
• Collaboration: Work closely with Ops, Admin, Accounting, Compliance, Contracting to ensure seamless payroll operations
Essential Qualities
Attention to Detail: This position demands exceptional accuracy and thoroughness. Every classification, calculation, and report must be precise and compliant.
Ownership Mentality: We need someone who will take complete responsibility for the payroll function—anticipating issues, solving problems independently, and ensuring deadlines are met without fail.
Communication Skills: You must communicate comfortably with people across all aspects of our business environment, including internal and external stakeholders, using phone, email and texting and be willing to keep records of same.
Continuous Improvement Focus: You should be passionate about making processes better, more efficient, and more reliable. We want someone who doesn't just maintain the status quo but actively seeks ways to enhance our operations.
Integrity & Compliance: Unwavering commitment to ethical practices and regulatory compliance is non-negotiable.
Multi-Tasking Ability: Must manage multiple concurrent projects with varying reporting schedules (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly) while maintaining accuracy across all submissions.
Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to investigate discrepancies, identify root causes, and implement solutions while maintaining positive relationships with subcontractors and team members.
Preferred Qualifications
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation
• Knowledge of multiple state prevailing wage requirements
• Background in construction project payroll
• Experience with trucking industry operations and terminology
• Familiarity with union payroll and fringe benefit calculations
What We Offer
• Opportunity to shape and improve critical payroll processes
• Collaborative work environment
• Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401K
• Bonus eligibility opportunity
• Full time, Remote work
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants must be able to pass a background check and drug screening requirements as part of the application process.
Job Type: Full-time
Base Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
• How many years experience in the trucking/construction industry do you have? Elaborate on the specifics listed on the job description.
Experience:
• Certified Payroll: 5 years (Preferred)
Work Location: Remote
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We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Certified Payroll Specialist with deep expertise, preferably in construction trucking payroll operations. This role requires a proactive professional who will take full ownership of our Certified Payroll and labor compliance processes while continuously identifying opportunities for improvement and efficiency.
Required QualificationsExperience & Expertise
• Minimum 5 years of certified payroll experience in the construction or trucking industry. Experience with LCP Tracker and/or DIR preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of AB5 compliance and contractor classification requirements, including contractor vs. employee classification
• Proven experience processing wage and certified payroll reports
• Strong understanding of construction trucking industry-specific payroll requirements, including union payroll, fringe benefits, and multi-state compliance
• Experience with federal and state prevailing wage projects (Caltrans and DIR)
Technical Skills
• Proficiency in certified payroll software and reporting systems (LCP Tracker, DIR online portal)
• QuickBooks experience preferred for payroll verification and reporting
• Strong Excel skills and experience with payroll management systems
• Experience with dispatch/timesheet systems
• Ability to prepare and submit certified payroll reports to government agencies
• Understanding of federal and state wage and hour laws, including prevailing wage rates
• Familiarity with Caltrans File Transfer systems and document management
Key ResponsibilitiesCertified Payroll Processing & Compliance
• Process Ownership: Take complete accountability for all aspects of certified payroll processing and labor compliance, from data collection through final reporting and compliance verification
• Contract Analysis: Review project contracts to identify Caltrans numbers, DIR numbers, federal contract numbers, wage determinations, and reporting requirements
• Certified Payroll Management: Prepare, review, and submit accurate certified payroll reports for public works projects in compliance with federal and state requirements
• Form Preparation: Complete and submit all required forms including:
• Caltrans Forms: CEM 2502 (Employees), CEM 2503 (Statement of Compliance), CEM 2501 (Fringe Benefits Statement)
• DIR Forms: A-1-131, Notice to Public Entity, Non-Performance forms
• Additional project-specific forms: DAS 140, DAS 142
• Multi-System Data Entry: Input payroll data into LCP Tracker, DIR online portal, and Caltrans systems as required by project specifications
• Wage Determination: Research and apply correct prevailing wage rates by county using DIR website and federal wage determination schedules
Subcontractor & Owner-Operator Management
• Sub-Hauler Payroll: Process and verify certified payroll for subcontractors and owner-operators, including separate fringe benefit calculations
• Sub-Hauler Statements: Prepare monthly sub-hauler payment summaries and coordinate check distribution
Data Management & Verification
• Cross-System Verification: Reconcile hours and payments across certified payroll forms to ensure accuracy
• Attention to Detail: Maintain meticulous accuracy in all payroll calculations, classifications, and reporting—errors are not acceptable in this role
Compliance & Audit Management
• AB5 Compliance: Ensure proper classification of workers under California AB5 regulations, maintaining thorough documentation and audit trails
• Audit Readiness: Maintain comprehensive records and documentation to support internal and external audits
• Caltrans Audits: Respond to audit requests by gathering and submitting required documentation including cashed checks, invoices, paid sub statements, timesheets, QB bills and payments reports, and fringe benefit calculations
• Document Management: Upload required documents to Caltrans File Transfer system and maintain organized records for all projects
Tax & Regulatory Reporting
• IFTA Management: File quarterly International Fuel Tax Agreement returns through CDTFA portal and order annual decal stickers
Communication & Problem Resolution
• Inquiry Management: Handle complaints and inquiries from subcontractors via phone, text, and email with professionalism and efficiency
• Issue Resolution: Investigate payment discrepancies, missing tickets, and payroll concerns, documenting issues in relevant systems and coordinating with appropriate team members
• Stakeholder Communication: Collaborate with project managers, estimators, compliance staff and contractors to obtain necessary information and ensure reporting deadlines are met
Process Management & Documentation
• Project Tracking: Maintain detailed notes for all CPR projects, updating status and documenting incomplete weeks or missing information
• Process Improvement: Proactively identify inefficiencies and recommend solutions to streamline payroll operations and enhance compliance protocols
• Collaboration: Work closely with Ops, Admin, Accounting, Compliance, Contracting to ensure seamless payroll operations
Essential Qualities
Attention to Detail: This position demands exceptional accuracy and thoroughness. Every classification, calculation, and report must be precise and compliant.
Ownership Mentality: We need someone who will take complete responsibility for the payroll function—anticipating issues, solving problems independently, and ensuring deadlines are met without fail.
Communication Skills: You must communicate comfortably with people across all aspects of our business environment, including internal and external stakeholders, using phone, email and texting and be willing to keep records of same.
Continuous Improvement Focus: You should be passionate about making processes better, more efficient, and more reliable. We want someone who doesn't just maintain the status quo but actively seeks ways to enhance our operations.
Integrity & Compliance: Unwavering commitment to ethical practices and regulatory compliance is non-negotiable.
Multi-Tasking Ability: Must manage multiple concurrent projects with varying reporting schedules (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly) while maintaining accuracy across all submissions.
Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to investigate discrepancies, identify root causes, and implement solutions while maintaining positive relationships with subcontractors and team members.
Preferred Qualifications
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation
• Knowledge of multiple state prevailing wage requirements
• Background in construction project payroll
• Experience with trucking industry operations and terminology
• Familiarity with union payroll and fringe benefit calculations
What We Offer
• Opportunity to shape and improve critical payroll processes
• Collaborative work environment
• Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401K
• Bonus eligibility opportunity
• Full time, Remote work
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants must be able to pass a background check and drug screening requirements as part of the application process.
Job Type: Full-time
Base Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
• How many years experience in the trucking/construction industry do you have? Elaborate on the specifics listed on the job description.
Experience:
• Certified Payroll: 5 years (Preferred)
Work Location: Remote
Apply tot his job
Apply To this Job