Director of Payroll

Redwire Space, Inc. is seeking an experienced Director of Payroll to lead payroll operations for a multi-state employee population. This individual will lead a team of payroll professionals, ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll tax laws and regulations, and drive continuous improvement in payroll systems and processes. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in multi-state payroll in a highly regulated environment.

Strong leadership skills, and a commitment to accuracy and employee satisfaction are a must.

• Maintain payroll compliance, safeguarding sensitive information, and supporting Redwire’s mission through reliable and efficient payroll administration.
• Develop and implement payroll strategies that align with company goals and support organizational growth.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing payroll team, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and exceptional service.
• Maintain strong internal controls to ensure payroll accuracy, prevent errors, and safeguard company assets.
• Manage relationships with external payroll providers, tax authorities, and other relevant vendors.
• Oversee the accurate and timely processing of payroll for all US employees across multiple states, ensuring compliance with varying state laws regarding wages, deductions, and reporting.
• Manage all payroll tax filings, including federal, state, local income taxes, FICA, FUTA, SUTA and other mandated with holdings and contributions.
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of all payroll deductions, including benefits premiums, 401(k) contributions, garnishments, and other pre/post-tax deductions.
• Oversee year-end payroll activities, including W-2 processing and reconciliation.
• Manage and resolve complex payroll issues, discrepancies, and employee inquiries efficiently and effectively.
• Stay current with all federal, state, local payroll tax laws, regulations, and reporting requirements (e.g., FLSA, IRS, Department of Labor).
• Proactively identify and mitigate payroll-related risks.
• Coordinate and facilitate internal and external payroll audits.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive payroll policies and procedures.
• Ensure all payroll processes are SOX compliant.
• Define and implement payroll strategy, team structure, and efficient, compliant processes
• Analyze department budget needs and contribute to budget development, including identifying cost‑savings opportunities.
• Travel occasionally to other Redwire business units to attend meetings or support payroll operations.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in payroll management, with at least 5 years in a leadership/director-level, operating in multiple states.
• In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations, including FLSA, FMLA, and state specific wage and hour laws.
• Experience with major payroll/HRIS systems is essential.
• Expert knowledge of GAAP.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including VLOOKUP and Pivot Tables.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. Person as defined by ITAR regulations.

• Experience processing payroll using Paycor is highly desired.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification.
• Experience with Deltek CostPoint ERP strongly preferred.
• Exceptional leadership and team managements kills with the ability to inspire and motivate.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with all levels of the organization.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• High level of integrity and ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Prior experience in government contracting, aerospace, or defense environments.
• Customer service-oriented approach to supporting employees and internal stakeholders.
• Proactive, takes initiative and demonstrates excellent judgement in a dynamic, changing environment.
• High levels of drive, work ethic, and personal accountability with the ability to work under pressure while maintaining sound judgement and a rigorous focus on the details.