Payroll Manager

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
• Manage off-cycle payrolls, manual checks, and retroactive adjustments as needed
• 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 management experience
• Experience processing payroll for 200+ employees across multiple states, including required experience with California and Illinois payroll
• Prior experience in a standalone or lead payroll role preferred
• Minimum 2 years of direct, hands-on experience administering payroll in Rippling (or similar small workforce management platform), including system configuration, pay group management, tax settings, and workflow automation
• Experience with additional platforms (ADP, Paylocity, Workday, etc.) is a plus including payroll system implementation, transition, and system training for employees
• Advanced skills for payroll reconciliation, VLOOKUP/pivot tables, and data analysis
• Understanding of how Rippling connects with benefits carriers, time & attendance systems, and GL platforms
• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) designation preferred; FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification) considered