Payroll Manager

GENERAL SUMMARY

The Payroll Manager for the Nisqually Tribe is responsible for overseeing the Tribe's payroll operations, ensuring that all employees are paid accurately and on time in accordance with tribal, state, and federal regulations. This role supervises a team of payroll staff who handle wages, tax with holdings, benefit contributions, and other payroll-related functions.

The Payroll Manager ensures payroll records are maintained with precision, reviews and verifies all calculations, addresses payroll discrepancies, and oversees the timely distribution of payroll through approved tribal payment methods. These functions are critical to organizational operations and require the highest level of security to protect sensitive employee and financial information. The Payroll Manager ensures compliance with legal, tax, and Tribal requirements, and works collaboratively with Human Resources, Finance, and other departments to maintain integrated and accurate payroll data.

This position also supports process improvements and provides guidance to payroll staff to uphold the highest standards of accuracy, confidentiality, and professionalism.

This role requires maintaining confidentiality, ensuring the accuracy and security of records, and fostering positive relationships with employees, customers, and community members. Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with exceptional customer service, are essential. Regular attendance is required, and occasional evening or weekend hours may be necessary to meet project deadlines. A professional, well‑groomed appearance is expected at all times.

The following duties are representative of the responsibilities assigned to this position. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary.

• Supervise and oversee the daily operations of the payroll staff, ensuring workloads are managed effectively.
• Process and review of semi-monthly payroll and related reports.
• Validate the accuracy of payroll information, including wage calculations, deductions, and benefits.
• Oversee maintenance and updates of payroll software to ensure system accuracy and compliance.
• Review, audit, analyze employee timesheets, payroll records, employee information and electronic time tracking records.
• Ensure compliance with payroll regulations, including wage garnishments, deductions, and taxes.
• Ensure compliance with all state, local, federal, and Tribal laws regarding finances, payroll, taxes, and reporting.
• Maintain detailed payroll records for auditing, reporting, and compliance purposes.
• Oversee reconciliation of payroll processing and general ledger reporting.
• Review, develop, implement payroll processes and procedures for efficiency and accuracy and internal control.
• Serve as point of contact for payroll staff, Human Resources, and other departments regarding payroll matters.
• Troubleshoot, investigate, and resolve payroll discrepancies, disputes or other issues in a timely manner.
• Lead, motivate, train, and supervise payroll staff to support professional development and maintain high performance standards.
• Manages calendar and fiscal year‑end payroll procedures, including issuance of W‑2s, and other regulatory filings.
• Assist in developing, implementing, and maintaining payroll‐related financial policies, internal controls, and operational procedures and serve as a resource to departments regarding payroll interpretation, system functionality, and compliance with accounting standards.
• Provide training, technical support, and consultation to Tribal employees on payroll processes, timekeeping, compliance requirements, and financial system functionality.
• Lead or participate in initiatives to improve efficiency, accuracy, and customer service.
• Monitor payroll metrics and key performance indicators to identify trends and implement improvements.
• Assist with the preparation of payroll budgets, forecasts, and reporting for Tribal leadership.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive payroll information and ensure compliance with privacy regulations.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration,…