Payroll Manager

Payroll Manager

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Build the future, spark innovation and align your career with purpose.

McKinstry is innovating the waste and climate harm out of the built environment and creating lasting impact. Together, we’re building a thriving planet. Buildings are a leading contributor to the climate crisis, generating nearly 40% of total global energy‑related carbon emissions. We’re making a lasting impact on our industry and within our communities by addressing the climate, affordability and equity crises through renewables and energy services, engineering and design, construction and facility services.

We are currently seeking a Payroll Manager to join our high‑performing Accounting and Payroll team in Seattle. The Payroll Manager leads and oversees a payroll processing team to ensure the delivery of timely, accurate, and compliant payroll operations for both union and non‑union employees across multiple local and state jurisdictions. This role manages highly complex pay rules, multiple collective bargaining agreements, and diverse state and federal regulatory requirements, while driving continuous process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

By fostering collaboration with HR, Finance, and operational teams, the Payroll Manager ensures alignment with organizational goals, supports audits and reporting, and delivers exceptional service to employees and stakeholders.

• Lead and Develop a High‑Performing Payroll Team:
  Drive strategic goals, coaching, and professional development to a multi‑state union and non‑union payroll team, fostering a collaborative, service‑oriented culture that supports accuracy, accountability, and growth.
• Oversee Complex, Multi‑State Union and Non‑Union Payroll Operations:
  Strategically manage end‑to‑end payroll processes for union and non‑union employees across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring timeliness, accuracy, and compliance with collective bargaining agreements and regulatory requirements.
• Drive Continuous Process Improvement and Innovation:
  Identify and implement process enhancements and technology‑driven solutions to increase efficiency, strengthen controls, resolve complex issues, and better align payroll operations with evolving business needs.
• Collaborate Across the Organization:
  Act as a key business partner to HR, Finance, Legal, and operational teams to ensure payroll practices support broader organizational strategies, compliance requirements, and workforce planning initiatives.
• Ensure Internal and External Audit Readiness and Compliance Excellence:
  Lead efforts to maintain robust audit practices, proactively monitor regulatory changes, and uphold compliance with federal, state, and local regulations as well as union contract obligations.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered).
• 10 years of experience in multi‑state payroll operations, prior union payroll experience strongly preferred.
• 7 years of people management experience.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) preferred.
• In‑depth knowledge & experience with multi‑state payroll regulations, tax laws, and reporting requirements.
• Exceptional knowledge of wage & hour laws, ACA compliance, and labor auditing standards.
• In depth experience with financial reporting, payroll accounting and account reconciliations, audit processes & requirements.
• Understanding of process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) and payroll best practices.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high‑performing payroll team.
• Ability to communicate complex payroll concepts clearly to non‑technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate effectively with HR, Finance, Legal, IT, and external partners.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and ensure data integrity and compliance.

When it comes to the basics, we have you covered:

• Competitive pay
• 401(k) with employer match and profit‑sharing plan
• Paid time off and holidays
• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and…