Payroll Manager

About the role

Our client in San Ramon is seeking an experienced interim Payroll Manager to oversee accurate, compliant payroll operations for a complex, multi-entity, multi-state workforce. This Contract position is ideal for a payroll specialist who can lead day-to-day processing while partnering closely with HR, Finance, Compliance, and other stakeholders. The role requires deep expertise in multistate payroll, variable compensation, and high-volume payroll administration, along with a strong focus on precision, controls, and service delivery. This role requires onsite work in San Ramon and is expected to pay $80/hr.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end payroll administration for a large employee population, ensuring timely and accurate processing across regular earnings, commissions, and other variable pay components
• Manage payroll activities spanning multiple states and legal entities, maintaining compliance with jurisdictional tax rules, reporting obligations, and company policies
• Supervise biweekly payroll cycles, review outputs for accuracy, and resolve exceptions, discrepancies, and complex payroll issues before final release
• Oversee year-end payroll functions, including W-2 and W-2C preparation, reconciliation, and related audit-ready documentation
• Maintain and strengthen payroll controls by conducting reconciliations, supporting internal and external audits, and monitoring adherence to regulatory requirements
• Partner with Human Resources, Finance, Compliance, Internal Audit, and leadership teams to address payroll matters, improve coordination, and support business needs
• Utilize payroll and workforce systems to manage payroll data, time and attendance inputs, and reporting workflows
• Guide and develop payroll team members through coaching, training, and day-to-day leadership to promote accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement

Requirements

• 7+ years of progressively responsible payroll experience, including work in complex payroll environments with high transaction volume
• Prior experience leading payroll operations or managing payroll staff in a supervisory or management capacity is strongly preferred
• Hands-on expertise with ADP Workforce Now and experience processing multistate payroll are required
• Proven ability to administer payroll for multiple companies or legal entities, including employees paid through salary, hourly wages, and commission-based compensation
• Strong knowledge of payroll tax administration, year-end payroll processing, and W-2/W-2C reconciliation requirements
• Familiarity with time and attendance processes, payroll audits, internal controls, and compliance standards
• Advanced Excel skills and solid proficiency with Microsoft Office, supported by strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred; equivalent practical experience will also be considered