Lead Payroll Integration Manager (Hybrid Role)

What You’ll Do

The Lead Payroll Integration Manager will serve as the primary owner and subject‑matter expert for payroll setup and integration within the Nonqualified (NQ) Retirement Solutions business. This role leads client and payroll provider conversations, supports accurate and secure data integration, and helps establish scalable processes that improve the client, participant, and operational experience. Coordination is required with clients, payroll vendors, consultants, technology partners, onboarding, administration, and the WSRS (401k) Payroll Integration Team for new implementations, conversions, and migration efforts.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the lead point of contact for NQ payroll setup and integration efforts, including client, payroll provider, consultant, and internal partner coordination.
• Lead end‑to‑end payroll implementation activities: file specifications, configuration, testing, validation, issue resolution, and production readiness.
• Provide subject‑matter expertise on NQ payroll setup and integration processes, payroll file requirements, provider capabilities, migration strategies, and downstream administrative impacts.
• Partner across onboarding, administration, consulting, technology, operations, and WSRS Payroll Integration teams to align standards, share best practices, and deliver scalable solutions.
• Lead and support FTP‑to‑IPP migration efforts, transitioning clients from legacy file solutions to more automated integration methods that improve efficiency, scalability, and risk controls.
• Identify opportunities to reduce manual work, improve quality, strengthen controls, and enhance the overall client and participant experience.
• Develop and maintain procedures, training resources, and quality standards related to payroll setup and integration processes.
• Demonstrate initiative and ownership by leveraging available resources, building expertise, solving problems independently, and establishing credibility with limited day‑to‑day direction.

Who You Are

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required, plus 4+ years of related experience.
• Working knowledge of business processes, financial services products, and supporting systems.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, communication, and relationship‑management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and drive results in a fast‑paced and ambiguous environment.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to understand cross‑functional impacts and downstream process implications.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively while proactively seeking information, resources, and partnerships.

Preferred Qualifications

• Working knowledge of non‑qualified deferred compensation plans, including plan design complexities, Section 409A requirements, payroll deduction structures, and related administrative impacts.
• Experience implementing or supporting payroll, HRIS, benefits, or retirement plan integrations.
• Experience with payroll setup, payroll deduction codes, payroll administration, or vendor payroll file requirements.
• Experience managing client implementations, onboarding projects, conversions, or complex operational initiatives involving multiple stakeholders.
• Knowledge of file transmission methods, data mapping, validation, testing, and integration controls.
• Experience supporting process improvement, operational excellence, automation, or scalable workflow design.

Salary Range

Targeted base salary range: $69,300 – $126,000 per year (exempt). Non‑sales positions may participate in a bonus program; actual compensation will be based on geographic location, experience, education, licensure, and skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer.

Work Environment

This role offers a hybrid arrangement (at least three office days per week) in one of the following locations: Des Moines, IA; Charlotte, NC; or Raleigh, NC. You will work with your leader to determine the best option based on several factors.

Work Authorization

We are not considering candidates who require immigration sponsorship now or in the future, including those on F‑1 OPT/CPT, J‑1, or other non‑immigrant work authorizations.

Investment Code of Ethics

For Principal Global Investors positions, you must adhere to an Investment Code of Ethics covering personal and business conduct as well as personal trading activities for you and members of your household. Similar requirements may apply to other positions across the organization.

Benefits

• Flexible Time Off (FTO) for salaried employees – no accrued bank, unlimited use for vacation, personal matters, or short‑term illness.
• Pension eligibility.
• Comprehensive, competitive benefit offerings designed to protect physical, financial, and social well‑being.