Payroll & Benefits Manager

Description

The Payroll & Benefits Manager is responsible for the strategic oversight and day-to-day administration of payroll, benefits, and leave programs across multiple entities. This role ensures accurate, compliant payroll processing across multiple EINs and states while delivering effective benefits and disability leave administration for a diverse workforce. The position partners closely with HR and Finance to ensure regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and positive employee experience.

The Payroll and Benefits Manager will report directly to the Director of Human Resources. This is a hybrid position, with some travel to the Naperville, IL office required. ET or CT time zone preferred.

Full-time

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing for multiple companies and EINs
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations across jurisdictions
• Set up, manage, and maintain payroll-related tax accounts (federal, state, local)
• Own access and credentials for systems such as EFTPS and other tax portals
• Communicate directly with federal, state and local government agencies to resolve issues, open accounts, or answer inquiries
• Work directly with the Director of Finance on payroll tax filings, reporting, and reconciliations
• Administer multi-state payroll requirements, including wage and hour laws
• Maintain payroll systems, audits, and internal controls
• Serve as primary liaison for payroll vendors and systems
• Ensure compliance with state tax regulations and reporting requirements
• Oversee workers’ compensation administration, audits, and carrier coordination
• Maintain payroll records in accordance with legal and audit standards
• Support internal and external audits related to payroll and benefits

• Manage benefits programs across multiple entities, including medical, dental, vision, life, savings and retirement and voluntary benefits
• Administer disability programs (short-term and long-term disability) and coordinate leave benefits
• Oversee open enrollment processes and employee benefits communications
• Partner with brokers and vendors to evaluate plan performance and cost effectiveness
• Ensure compliance with ERISA, COBRA, ACA, HIPAA, and related regulations

• Identify and implement process improvements in payroll and benefits operations
• Develop policies and procedures to ensure consistency and compliance
• Prepare reports and analytics for leadership related to payroll and benefits trends

• 6+ years of experience in payroll administration with at least 3 years managing payroll for multiple entities and EINs on various platforms
• Strong knowledge of multi-state payroll tax regulations
• Experience administering workers’ compensation programs
• Strong knowledge of payroll systems and HRIS platforms
• Experience managing employee benefits programs across multiple companies
• CEBS certification is preferred
• Hands-on experience with disability leave administration
• Knowledge of self-insured plans
• High attention to detail and strong compliance mindset
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills

$95,000 - $110,000