Payroll Manager

Payroll Manager

The Payroll Manager manages the day-to-day operations of the payroll function and is responsible for ensuring employees are paid accurately, timely and in compliance with applicable federal, state and local requirements. The Manager oversees payroll processing, payroll and timekeeping data validation, reconciliations, payroll tax activities, reporting, audits and payroll system administration. This role supervises payroll staff, resolves complex payroll issues and works closely with Human Resources, Benefits, Finance, Accounting, Information Systems and external vendors to maintain accurate payroll data, effective controls and efficient payroll processes.

Major Accountabilities/Critical Responsibilities:

Manage end-to-end payroll processing for all assigned entities and payroll cycles, ensuring payrolls are completed accurately and according to established processing schedules and deadlines.

Review and validate payroll inputs and calculations, including timekeeping data, regular and supplemental earnings, overtime, differentials, retroactive adjustments, paid time off, bonuses, deductions, garnishments, taxes, terminations and other payroll transactions. Review payroll registers and exception reports and ensure discrepancies are resolved prior to payroll completion.

Maintain effective payroll controls throughout the payroll cycle, including required approvals, pre- and post-payroll audits, reconciliations and supporting documentation. Research discrepancies, determine root causes and ensure appropriate corrections are completed.

Ensure day-to-day payroll practices comply with applicable federal, state and local wage and hour and payroll requirements. Monitor changes in payroll regulations and escalate potential compliance concerns or required process changes to Payroll leadership.

Manage payroll tax activities in coordination with payroll and tax vendors, including review of tax deposits and filings, resolution of agency notices, jurisdictional setup and quarterly and year-end reconciliation. Support accurate and timely preparation and distribution of W-2s and related year-end reporting.

Oversee payroll-related reconciliations and accounting support, including payroll registers, deductions, taxes, general ledger interfaces and payroll liability accounts. Research and resolve discrepancies and provide payroll information required for monthly and year-end financial close.

Manage the operational use of payroll and timekeeping systems and related interfaces. Review system output for accuracy, troubleshoot processing and integration issues, and coordinate with Information Systems, Human Resources and vendors on configuration changes, testing, upgrades and system enhancements.

Supervise and develop payroll staff, including assignment and review of work, training, cross-training, performance feedback and maintenance of appropriate backup coverage. Ensure payroll procedures and expectations are consistently followed.

Serve as the primary escalation point for payroll processing issues and complex employee pay questions. Research issues, coordinate corrections and communicate resolutions clearly and timely to employees, managers and internal partners.

Support internal and external audits by preparing payroll reports, reconciliations, schedules and supporting documentation. Respond to audit inquiries and implement process or control improvements resulting from identified findings.

Maintain payroll procedures, checklists and process documentation to support consistent processing, internal controls, audit readiness and business continuity.

Identify and implement opportunities to improve payroll accuracy, efficiency and controls through process standardization, automation and improved use of payroll and timekeeping systems.

Partner with Human Resources, Benefits, Compensation, Finance, Accounting and Information Systems to ensure employee, timekeeping, compensation, benefit and payroll data are accurately reflected in payroll and that changes affecting employee pay are implemented appropriately.

Prepare recurring and ad-hoc payroll reports and analysis for Finance, Accounting, Human Resources,…