Senior Payroll Specialist at Morrison & Foerster LLP – San Francisco, California

Senior Payroll Specialist

Locations: San Francisco, California; Los Angeles, California; San Francisco, California
Req ID: 5861
Position Type: Accounting/Finance
Job Overview

At MoFo, we couldnt write our own success story without yours. Ready to write your story?

Join MoFo as a SENIOR PAYROLL SPECIALIST on our Financial Operations team!

This role can be based in San Francisco or Los Angeles
https://www.mofo.com/offices

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day and off-cycle payroll operations for assigned pay cycles. The Senior Payroll Specialist ensures compliance with established procedures for the accurate and timely preparation, documentation, maintenance and disbursement of payroll checks, payroll taxes, vacation, PTO, and leave of absence records for assigned pay cycles. Performs payroll tasks as assigned, which may include assisting and providing backup for other Payroll team members, identifying and troubleshooting issues, and assisting in the development and implementation of procedures to optimize processes. Responsible for ensuring client satisfaction is achieved throughout all position responsibilities.

Payroll Administration & Compliance

• Verify accuracy and reasonability of data from systems (Workday, 3E, WorkForce, etc.).
• Maintain Ascentis payroll database for non-interface updates.
• Ensure all required tax forms (e.g., W-4, questionnaires) are complete and properly processed.
• Confirm correct wage reporting and tax withholding based on employee status (location, visa, pay method, etc.).
• Apply and communicate payroll policies across all pay groups.
• Ensure proper classification and payment of overtime, expenses, and benefits in compliance with laws and firm policies.
• Administer end-to-end garnishments (setup, calculations, communication, disbursement).
• Manage Leave of Absence tracking and related payroll calculations.
• Process non-cash benefits (scheduled and off-cycle).
• Support payroll-related processes (hourly payroll, bar stipends, pre-employment payments, workers comp reporting).
• Execute payroll cycles (regular and off-cycle), including auditing, reporting, and filing.
• Understand data flows, system integrations, and payroll processes.
• Maintain expertise in federal, state, local, and reciprocal tax rules and applications.
• Apply appropriate taxation methods for multi-state and remote employees.
• Maintain knowledge of firm policies for staff and attorneys.
• Manage employee benefit deductions (Section 125, retirement, disability, etc.).
• Apply IRS rules for non-cash benefits.
• Maintain working knowledge of contractors, visas, expatriates, and tax treaties.
• Support payroll tax research, reconciliation, and balancing.
• Administer complex payroll tax scenarios.
• Backup support for WorkForce processes (imports, timesheets, approvals).

Communication

• Maintain strict confidentiality of payroll information.
• Respond to employee and management inquiries on pay, taxes, deductions, and compensation.
• Address questions related to leaves of absence and payroll processes.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams and external vendors.
• Ensure documentation is accurate, thorough, and compliant.

ABOUT YOU

• Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field with 6+ years of multi-state/global payroll experience (or equivalent experience)
• Strong knowledge of payroll regulations, including federal, state, local, and wage and hour laws
• Expertise in multi-state and remote work tax reporting and withholding; expatriate payroll experience preferred
• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or similar certification preferred
• Experience with integrated HR/payroll systems (e.g., Ascentis, WorkForce Software, Workday HCM, Dayforce HCM preferred)
• Working knowledge of GDPR, California, and other applicable data privacy regulations
• Strong interpersonal, teamwork, and communication skills across all levels
• Analytical, detail-oriented, and able to identify issues and recommend solutions
• Proficient in spreadsheet and database applications
• High level of integrity with the ability to handle confidential information
• Able to manage tasks independently, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines
• Responsive and reliable with a strong sense of urgency

ABOUT MOFO

At MoFo, we collaborate as one firm, across borders, practice areas, and business functions and value fresh ideas and innovation over conformity and competition.

• About Us: https://www.mofo.com/about
• Inclusion + Engagement: https://www.mofo.com/community/we-at-mofo
• Commitment to Pro Bono: https://careers.mofo.com/careers-pro-bono
• The MoFo Foundation: https://www.mofo.com/culture/mofo-foundation

ABOUT OUR BENEFITS

MoFo offers a comprehensive benefits package starting on your first day.

• A variety of options for medical, dental, vision, life and disability coverage to meet the needs of you and your family.
• Industry-leading parental leave and family benefits including adoption and fertility treatment options and backup child and elder care.
• Global wellness program, including free access to Talkspace and Calm apps.
• Annual community service day to make an impact on your community and a birthday holiday just for fun.
• Education reimbursement annually.
• Dedicated Talent Development team.
• Competitive annual profit-sharing contribution.

Where required by law, salary ranges are stated below. Additional compensation may include a discretionary bonus, overtime as applicable, health/welfare benefits, retirement contributions, paid holidays, and PTO. The range displayed is specifically for positions performed in those cities/states and may vary based on factors including but not limited to the following: local market data and ranges; an applicant's skills and prior relevant experience; and certain degrees, licensing, and certifications.

San Francisco salary range: $104k to $145k

Los Angeles salary range: $99k to $138k

For questions regarding this position, please e-mail jobs@mofo.com

Morrison & Foerster is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, religion, creed, ethnic or national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, domestic partner status, and other categories protected by applicable laws, or in retaliation for opposition to any practices forbidden under this policy.