Payroll Manager

Interim Payroll Manager

Our client in San Ramon is seeking an experienced interim Payroll Manager to oversee accurate, compliant payroll operations for a complex, multi-entity, multi-state workforce. This Contract position is ideal for a payroll specialist who can lead day-to-day processing while partnering closely with HR, Finance, Compliance, and other stakeholders. The role requires deep expertise in multistate payroll, variable compensation, and high-volume payroll administration, along with a strong focus on precision, controls, and service delivery.

This role requires onsite work in San Ramon.

Responsibilities:

• Lead end-to-end payroll administration for a large employee population, ensuring timely and accurate processing across regular earnings, commissions, and other variable pay components

• Manage payroll activities spanning multiple states and legal entities, maintaining compliance with jurisdictional tax rules, reporting obligations, and company policies

• Supervise biweekly payroll cycles, review outputs for accuracy, and resolve exceptions, discrepancies, and complex payroll issues before final release

• Oversee year-end payroll functions, including W-2 and W-2C preparation, reconciliation, and related audit-ready documentation

• Maintain and strengthen payroll controls by conducting reconciliations, supporting internal and external audits, and monitoring adherence to regulatory requirements

• Partner with Human Resources, Finance, Compliance, Internal Audit, and leadership teams to address payroll matters, improve coordination, and support business needs

• Utilize payroll and workforce systems to manage payroll data, time and attendance inputs, and reporting workflows

• Guide and develop payroll team members through coaching, training, and day-to-day leadership to promote accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement