Job Description

The Payroll Manager is responsible for the end-to-end administration, accuracy, and compliance of payroll operations. This role oversees payroll processing, HRIS payroll data integrity, and payroll-related financial activities, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time while adhering to all federal, state, and local regulations. The position partners closely with both Finance and Human Resources to ensure seamless payroll execution, reporting, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Processing & Administration

• Oversee and process biweekly payroll, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
• Manage payroll data including new hires, terminations, salary/hourly changes, benefits, garnishments, taxes, and other deductions.
• Verify payroll records and reconcile discrepancies.
• Process final payrolls and accrued PTO payouts for terminated employees.
• Coordinate with third-party payroll or timekeeping vendors as needed.

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations.
• Manage payroll tax filings, ensuring accuracy and timely submission.
• Prepare and analyze payroll reports, including earnings, deductions, and liabilities.
• Support internal and external audits by preparing necessary documentation.

HRIS & Data Management

• Maintain and oversee HRIS payroll data integrity and employee records.
• Review of new hire onboarding data for payroll accuracy.
• Maintain records for accruals (vacation/sick) and employee payroll history.

Process Improvement & Controls

• Develop, implement, and maintain payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Establish and monitor payroll key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Conduct quality assurance reviews of payroll operations.

Employee Support & Issue Resolution

• Research and resolve payroll discrepancies and employee inquiries.
• Provide guidance to staff and managers on payroll-related matters.
• Maintain confidentiality of all payroll and employee information.

Financial & Administrative Duties

• Review payroll liabilities including taxes and employer contributions.
• Manage employee expense reimbursements and related reporting systems (e.g., Concur).
• Support Finance with accounting or accounts payable activities as needed.

Team Leadership (if applicable)

• Recruit, train, and develop payroll staff.
• Monitor team performance and provide ongoing coaching and feedback.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of payroll principles, tax regulations, and employment laws.
• Experience with payroll systems, HRIS, and accounting software.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

Education & Experience

• Associate’s degree (or higher) in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 4–5 years of payroll or related experience required.
• Experience with HRIS systems and payroll processing is strongly preferred.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

• Primarily office-based work with extended periods of sitting and computer use.
• Occasional lifting of light to moderate materials.
• Ability to manage interruptions and work in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Information

• Must maintain confidentiality and adhere to all regulatory requirements (including HIPAA where applicable).
• Background checks and pre-employment screening may be required.
• Other duties assigned to support organizational needs.