Payroll Manager

Job Summary

The Payroll Manager is responsible for accurate and timely payroll processing, reconciliation, and payroll reporting.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing for multiple companies that use non-union and union employees, ensuring accuracy and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Prepare and analyze payroll-related and other regulatory reports as required.
• Support year-end processes, including W-2's and annual audits.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of payroll and employee data.
• Manage payroll adjustments, reversals, retro pay, gross-ups, garnishments, and special pay scenarios.
• Oversee review of payroll registers and ensure accurate payroll distribution.
• Create and maintain written procedures for all payroll department functions.
• Contribute to and/or lead other department-specific and cross-functional initiatives.
• Prepare all federal and state tax compliance forms, such as Fed-941, IL-941, 940, IL unemployment, W-3, W-2s, MSHA, and other required filings for multiple companies.
• Stay abreast of changing laws and best practices to inform process improvement and maintenance of system integration, technology, and legal compliance.
• Establish and maintain a centralized payroll operation that includes development of self-service resources, proactive communication, and prompt response to employee questions and requests.
• Develop training and coaching programs for employees, cultivate a culture of customer service, and build relationships.
• Collaborate closely with finance, HR, and Operations departments to ensure accurate payroll data, resolve discrepancies, and support companywide payroll initiatives.
• Monitor and analyze payroll metrics to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Perform all other duties and tasks assigned.

Required Education & Experience

• Associate’s degree in accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field, or 7+ years equivalent payroll experience.
• 3-5 years of Payroll experience in a high-volume union environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office products, i.e., excel, word, outlook.
• Handling confidential information with discretion.

Preferred Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field.
• 3+ years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• CPP Certification
• Payroll processes and procedures within a Construction environment.
• Union payroll & benefits.

Knowledge Skills & Abilities

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to train, mentor, and develop payroll staff.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple payroll cycles and competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local payroll laws and union contract requirements.
• Experience improving payroll processes, implementing controls, and driving operational efficiency.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex payroll concepts to non-payroll audiences.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Experience working with LCPTracker, IDOL Certified Payroll, WH-347 forms, and prevailing wage forms.
• Strong attention to detail with accuracy as a top priority.
• Organizational skills are a must.
• Ability to analyze payroll data, identify trends, and develop recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Strong customer-service mindset with the ability to support employees and leadership at all levels.
• Able to lead payroll audits, resolve discrepancies, and collaborate effectively with external auditors.

Benefits

Plote offers comprehensive healthcare plans, generous paid time off, and retirement savings to support our team members in every aspect of their lives.

About Plote

At Plote, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans, generous paid time off, and retirement savings to support our team members in every aspect of their lives.

Why Plote?

Plote has a fast-paced and dynamic environment where team members are committed to excellence and proud to be part of a growing and successful construction company. BEFORE ALL ELSE, SAFETY FIRST. Plote Construction, Northern Illinois’ premier Excavating, Asphalt Paving and Concrete Contractor, is committed to conducting construction operations in the safest manner possible. With an industry leading safety record, and a robust safety program. At Plote you'll find a deep commitment and dedication to safety and team members' wellbeing.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Plote is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. Plote will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable).