Payroll Manager

Role Scope

The Payroll Manager is responsible for the end-to-end administration of the organization's payroll function, serving as the primary owner of all payroll processes. This role ensures accurate, compliant, and timely compensation for all employees while maintaining the integrity of payroll data and driving continuous process improvements. The Payroll Manager operates at the intersection of Finance, HR, and Compliance — partnering cross-functionally to align payroll practices with organizational goals and regulatory requirements.

Location: Remote, candidates based in Central and Eastern time zones preferred; candidates located elsewhere will also be considered

Core Responsibilities & Expectations for the Role

• Own and execute full-cycle payroll processing for all employee types (salaried, hourly, contractors) using the company’s payroll module, ensuring on-time and accurate disbursements, reviewing and reconciling pre-payroll reports before each run, and investigating/resolving discrepancies prior to submission
• Process off-cycle payrolls, manual checks, and retroactive adjustments as needed
• Manage final pay calculations for terminated employees in compliance with applicable state law timelines
• Serve as the first point of contact for employee payroll inquiries — resolving issues related to pay stubs, direct deposit, tax withholding, corrections, and guiding employees through self-service payroll system features (pay stub access, W-4 updates, direct deposit setup)
• Manage tax filings and remittances, including quarterly 941s, annual W-2s, 1099s, and any state/local equivalents.
• Configure automated payroll workflows and approval chains to minimize manual intervention and reduce error risk.
• Participate in HR and Finance system projects, including implementations, upgrades, and cross-functional initiatives.
• Document all payroll processes, procedures, and internal controls to support consistency and business continuity.
• Coordinate with the HR/Benefits team to ensure accurate and timely payroll deductions for medical, dental, vision, 401(k), HSA/FSA, and other voluntary benefits
• Provide payroll data to support budgeting, forecasting, accounting, and financial planning activities.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Human Resources, or related field
• 2-5 years of progressive payroll experience