Payroll Manager

We are looking for an experienced Payroll Manager to oversee payroll operations for a Contract position based in Waltham, Massachusetts. This role will guide accurate and compliant payroll delivery across a diverse employee population while strengthening processes, systems, and team capability. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, deep multi-state payroll expertise, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional partners. Responsibilities:• Direct full-cycle payroll administration across multiple states for hourly, salaried, union, and non-union• Supervise, mentor, and develop payroll staff while building team versatility through training and shared knowledge.• Safeguard payroll accuracy by enforcing tax requirements, wage and hour regulations, collective bargaining obligations, and internal standards.• Oversee payroll tax activities, including filings, account reconciliations, year-end processing, and required government reporting.• Maintain strong payroll controls, organized documentation, and readiness for internal and external audit reviews.• Work closely with Finance to resolve General Ledger items, investigate variances, and support month-end and period-end close activities.• Administer payroll platforms, HRIS and timekeeping integrations, vendor relationships, and system enhancement efforts, including automation and implementation support.• Partner with cross functional teams to address payroll impacts, improve service delivery, and resolve employee issues.• Track payroll performance, identify process improvement opportunities, and implement operational changes that increase efficiency and accuracy. • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business, or a related discipline, or comparable relevant experience. • At least 5 years of progressively responsible payroll experience, including prior leadership of a payroll team. • Demonstrated success managing high-volume, multi-state payroll for both hourly and salaried workforces; union or manufacturing environment experience is a plus. • Strong understanding of payroll taxation, garnishments, year-end payroll activities, payroll accounting, and applicable labor regulations. • Hands-on experience with enterprise payroll systems, HRIS platforms, and timekeeping tools, including UKG Pro or UKG Ready. • Advanced Excel skills with the ability to analyze data, perform reconciliations, and support payroll reporting needs. • Background in payroll process optimization, systems implementation, integrations, and workflow automation. • Sound judgment with a high degree of discretion, confidentiality, and integrity; CPP certification is preferred. Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more. All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s Terms of Use and Privacy Notice.