Director of Payroll

About the role

The American Museum of Natural History is seeking a full-time Director of Payroll to lead the department's day-to-day operations. This role ensures payroll processes are carried out accurately and in adherence with Museum policy, relevant government regulations, and union collective bargaining agreements. The Director oversees a team of payroll professionals and collaborates with Finance, Human Resources, Legal, and IT.

Responsibilities

• Direct and provide leadership for payroll operations and administration, ensuring the department supports the Museum’s mission and maintains its standard of confidentiality.
• Lead, mentor, and train the payroll team.
• Develop, update, and recommend payroll-related policies and procedures.
• Ensure payroll processes are performed on time, with precision, and in adherence with Museum policy, government regulations (FLSA, IRS, State, and Local tax laws, wage and hour laws, etc.), and union collective bargaining agreements.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure payroll processes align with organizational goals.
• Leverage payroll expertise to handle payroll-related inquiries and escalations.
• Ensure that payroll information is accurate, well-documented, and ready for review.
• Prepare financial information for external and internal audits.
• Manage reporting functions to provide accurate and timely financial information.
• Work with Finance to calculate and record all accruals related to payroll.
• Analyze payroll data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for efficiency and cost savings.
• Implement and ensure consistency in controls and balancing processes to safeguard the accuracy and integrity of the payroll function.
• Create quality assurance procedures and ensure they are followed.
• Lead payroll-related system implementations, upgrades, integrations, and process improvements.
• Manage relationships with payroll vendors and service providers.

Requirements

• A High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Ten years progressive payroll experience, including leadership at a managerial or Director level.
• Extensive knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Strong systems experience with major payroll platforms.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or similar certification.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for prolonged periods.
• Must be able to occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.
• Must be able to move about the Museum campus.

Pay & Benefits

The expected salary range for the Director of Payroll is $160,000/annual – $175,000/annual. The AMNH offers an extensive benefits package designed to meet the needs of our dedicated and diverse community. Pay will be determined based on several factors including, but not limited to, skills, knowledge, training, education, credentials, areas of specialization, and depth and scope of experience.