Experience with Certified Payroll requirements and documentation, including preparing, maintaining, and submitting accurate Certified Payroll Reports.
Knowledge of payroll systems, reporting tools, and applicable compliance requirements, including California Department of Industrial Relations and union-related payroll processes.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
Ability to reconcile payroll records, identify discrepancies, and produce accurate, audit-ready reports.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy when working with numbers, payroll records, and employee information.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities.
Verbal and written communication skills and the ability to collaborate across departments.
Problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the ability to learn new processes quickly.
Ability to work independently, demonstrate initiative, and follow through on assigned responsibilities.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism when handling sensitive information.
At least one year of California payroll experience, particularly involving payroll compliance, reporting, and field collaboration.
A four-year degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent knowledge gained through formal education, specialized training, or additional job experience.
Pre-employment background checks and eligibility verification are required prior to hire.
Responsibilities
Prepare and upload payroll certifications (CPRs) in compliance with DIR and union rules, ensuring supporting documentation for audits, labor audits, or internal validation and testing.
Validate job classifications and collective bargaining agreements by employee and project, coordinating responses with Compliance and Management.
Process salary adjustments, garnishments, and retroactive payments accurately and on time, aligning rates with union updates and HR guidelines.
Monitor benefits, fringes, and payment dates, supporting internal audits and preventative corrections.
Reconcile timecards and work records weekly using systems such as Vista and Procore, verifying overtime and special classifications.
Resolve record anomalies with the Office and Projects teams, keeping union and administrative documentation up to date.
Prepare union and government reports, including fringe summaries, and maintain systems ready for audits.
Assist with compliance with California Prevailing Wage requirements, as applicable.
Access time and attendance and payroll records, and compile reports as requested.
Use and maintain systems, procedures, and policies for payroll, HR, and accounting functions to ensure adherence to company guidelines.
Track and report key functional metrics to reduce waste and improve payroll effectiveness.
Collaborate with key people to ensure payroll accuracy, integrity, and responsiveness.
Maintain accurate records relating to payroll, expense reimbursements, and benefits.
Recommend and enforce policies and procedures for payroll activities.
Create monthly reports to management as needed.
Assist with or run special projects as directed by the Office Manager or Director of HR, and help with payroll or HR projects and activities as needed, subject to availability.
Perform other duties and tasks as assigned.
Desired Qualifications
Experience with California Prevailing Wage requirements, Certified Payroll reporting, and union payroll documentation.
Practical knowledge of California and other applicable state labor laws and federal wage regulations.
Bilingual communication skills in English and Spanish.
Experience using payroll or project management systems such as Vista, Procore, or equivalent tools.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
Mendoza Companies is a multi-entity ecosystem of construction, services, and investment businesses operating under The Mendoza Way. The platform includes High-Light Electric, Inc. (HLE) — a California-based union electrical infrastructure contractor founded in 1996 delivering public works and complex electrical construction across California — along with Mendoza Trust and an international independent contractor workforce.
We partner with Caltrans, municipalities, transit authorities, and infrastructure programs throughout California, with active expansion into Nevada, Arizona, and additional U.S. markets. In 2025, HLE was recognized on the Inc. Regionals Pacific list — #116.
Mendoza Companies is guided by Mission 2040: to build a $1 billion business ecosystem connecting 1,000 families and communities through business.
When you join Mendoza, you are not just taking a job. You are joining a mission and embracing a purpose.
THE ROLE
The Payroll Clerk plays an essential role in maintaining accurate, timely, and compliant payroll operations, with a particular focus on Certified Payroll, California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) requirements, and union-related payroll compliance.
This position is responsible for preparing and uploading Certified Payroll Reports (CPRs), validating employee classifications and pay rates, reconciling timecards, maintaining payroll records, and supporting compliance with applicable wage and hour regulations.
Working closely with Human Resources, Finance, Field Operations, and other internal teams, the Payroll Clerk helps ensure payroll information is accurate, properly documented, and ready for audits or compliance reviews.
This opportunity is well suited for someone with experience in payroll and Certified Payroll requirements who enjoys working with numbers, resolving discrepancies, and maintaining organized, reliable processes.
The ideal candidate demonstrates strong attention to detail, confidentiality, accountability, and follow-through while reflecting The Mendoza Way: professionalism, respect, and service.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
Prepare and upload payroll certifications (CPRs) in compliance with DIR and union rules, ensuring backups for audits, labor audits, or internal validation/testing.
Validate job classifications and collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) by employee and project, coordinating responses with Compliance and Management.
Process salary adjustments, garnishments, and retroactive payments in a timely and accurate manner, aligning rates according to union updates and HR guidelines.
Monitor benefits, fringes, and payment dates, supporting internal audits and preventative corrections.
Reconcile timecards and work records weekly with systems such as Vista and Procore, verifying overtime and special classifications.
Resolve anomalies in records with the Office and Projects teams, keeping union and administrative documentation up to date.
Prepare union and government reports, including fringe summaries, and maintain systems ready for audits.
Assist in compliance with CA Prevailing Wage requirements as applicable.
Access time & attendance and payroll records, and compile reports as requested.
Utilize and maintain systems, procedures and policies for payroll/HR/accounting functions to ensure adherence to company guidelines.
Track and report key functional metrics to reduce waste and improve payroll effectiveness.
Collaborate with key people to ensure payroll accuracy, integrity, and responsiveness.
Maintain immaculate and accurate records relating to payroll, expense reimbursements, and benefits.
Recommend and enforce policies and procedures for payroll activities.
Create monthly reports to management as needed.
Assist with, and/or run special projects as directed by the Office Manager and/or Director of HR, or help with any payroll or HR projects or activities as needed subject to availability.
Perform any other duties and tasks as assigned.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
Required
Experience with Certified Payroll requirements and documentation, with the ability to prepare, maintain, and submit accurate Certified Payroll Reports (CPRs).
Knowledge of payroll systems, reporting tools, and applicable compliance requirements, including California DIR and union-related payroll processes.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
Ability to reconcile payroll records, identify discrepancies, and produce accurate, audit-ready reports.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy when working with numbers, payroll records, and employee information.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to collaborate across departments.
Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the ability to learn new processes quickly.
Ability to work independently, demonstrate initiative, and follow through on assigned responsibilities.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism when handling sensitive information.
Preferred
At least one year of California payroll experience, particularly involving payroll compliance, reporting, and field collaboration.
Experience with California Prevailing Wage requirements, Certified Payroll reporting, and union payroll documentation.
Practical knowledge of California and other applicable state labor laws and federal wage regulations.
Bilingual communication skills in English and Spanish.
Experience using payroll or project management systems such as Vista, Procore, or equivalent tools.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS ROLE
This role supports payroll operations in a structured, deadline-driven environment where accuracy and attention to detail are essential.
You will work closely with HR, Finance, and Operations teams to support payroll cycles, compliance documentation, and reporting needs across multiple projects.
The role requires strong organization, consistency, and the ability to manage recurring deadlines while maintaining accuracy in a high-volume setting.
EDUCATION
Four-year degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent knowledge gained through formal education, specialized training, or additional job experience.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS ROLE
Payroll is a detail-driven and deadline-sensitive function where accuracy, accountability, and consistency are essential.
You will work directly with payroll records, timecards, Certified Payroll Reports, employee classifications, union agreements, and compliance documentation while coordinating with different departments to address discrepancies and maintain reliable records.
Certified Payroll is a central responsibility of this position, particularly regarding California DIR reporting and applicable union and prevailing wage requirements.
The role requires someone who can balance recurring deadlines, detailed reporting, and employee-related requests while maintaining confidentiality, professionalism, and accuracy.
Your work will directly contribute to accurate employee compensation, regulatory compliance, and trust across the organization.
WHAT WE OFFER
We offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, which may include:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan
Paid time off and company holidays
Employee assistance and wellness programs
Opportunities for professional growth and development
HIRING PROCESS
Our hiring process is structured, consistent, and designed to ensure a strong mutual fit:
Application and screening questionnaire
5-10 minute structured pre-screen conversation with AI
HR Screening Interview
Final Panel interview in person
Qualified candidates can expect clear communication and a timely process throughout the hiring stages.
Pre-employment background checks and eligibility verification are required prior to hire.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
HLE is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.