Payroll Manager

Overview

Payroll Manager – UL Research Institutes & UL Standards & Engagement, Evanston, Illinois

Oversee payroll compliance, processing, and reporting for ULRI and ULSE.

• Process US payroll in compliance with federal, state, and local laws, ensuring timely pay.
• Maintain HRIS payroll data, earnings codes, tax locations, garnishments, deductions, and attendance records.
• Prepare and file federal, state, and local payroll tax reports, including international filings.
• Manage International Employer of Record (EOR) and payroll vendor relationships.
• Lead Senior Payroll & Benefits Specialist, resolving discrepancies and ensuring accuracy.
• Administer 401(k) contribution funding, reconciliation, and annual audit reporting (Form 5500).
• Inform process improvement and technology integration, staying abreast of laws and best practices.
• Collaborate with finance and benefits teams on payroll allocation and employee compensation.
• Develop self‑service resources, proactive communications, and employee support.
• Serve as primary contact for payroll audits and payroll/accounting reconciliations.
• Document procedures for all Payroll department functions.
• Provide reports, analysis, and audit assistance as requested.
• Lead cross‑functional initiatives and contribute to departmental goals.

• Advanced knowledge of payroll compliance, payroll best practices, and federal/state payroll and tax regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain payroll systems, time and attendance, and HRIS with system configuration alignment.
• Excellent attention to detail, problem‑solving, and root cause analysis skills.
• Strong customer service, employee experience focus, and interpersonal collaboration.
• Exceptional process and project management skills with deadline discipline.
• Sound judgment, discretion, and confidentiality handling of sensitive information.
• Excellent written and oral communication and customer service skills.
• Strong proficiency in MS Office with advanced Excel skills.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Finance or related discipline.
• Minimum 6 years administering payroll processes, with at least 2 years as primary/lead payroll team member.
• Basic knowledge of employee benefits practices and procedures.
• Experience processing payroll in Canada and/or international payrolls preferred.
• Experience in professional services or non‑profit organizations preferred.

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification preferred.
• Experience with Workday preferred.
• Experience with Workday or international payrolls plus value.
• International Employer of Record (EOR) or payroll vendor management experience.

• Competitive salary: $98,562.21 – $ annual.
• Bonus compensation based on position level.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
• 401(k) matching up to 5% of eligible pay, plus an additional 4% after one year continuous employment.
• Paid time off: vacation, holiday, sick, and volunteer days.
• Flexible working arrangements discussable with manager.
• Certificates: dedicated training and career development opportunities.

UL Research Institutes and UL Standards & Engagement advance safety science to create a safer, more sustainable world. We value collaboration, respect, integrity, and beneficence, and offer employees a supportive, inclusive environment for growth and impact.