Payroll Manager

Description The Payroll Manager owns end-to-end bi-weekly payroll for a workforce of 2,400+ employees spanning corporate, distribution center, and retail locations across multiple states. This is a high-ownership role requiring deep multi-state payroll and tax expertise, strong independent judgment, and the ability to lead processes with minimal oversight in a fast-moving environment. This role is based in Acton, MA with a hybrid schedule; may consider additional flexibility for candidates outside a reasonable commuting distance from our corporate office. What you'll do Be a brand ambassador Manage on-cycle and off-cycle multi-state payroll for 2,400+ employees, including adjustments, reversals, stop payments, and manual checks. Prepare and file federal, state, and local payroll tax returns on weekly, quarterly, and annual schedules. Stay current on changing regulations across all operating states. Manage all W-2 preparation, distribution, and related employee inquiries. Coordinate year-end reconciliation with Finance. Conduct regular payroll audits and reconciliations. Analyze data to identify discrepancies and risks proactively. Support internal and external audit requests. Collaborate with HR, Benefits, and Finance. Respond to employee and manager inquiries with a strong service mindset. Maintain accurate employee payroll data, deductions, and changes. Continuously evaluate payroll workflows and implement improvements to increase accuracy, efficiency, and scalability as the organization grows. Who you are 5+ years of payroll experience, including at least 3 years managing high-volume payroll for 2,000+ employees across multiple states. Comfortable managing the full payroll cycle independently, including resolving issues proactively and without close supervision. Proven ability to navigate varying state and local tax regulations, filing requirements, and compliance obligations. Experience with Paycom or comparable platforms. Ability to leverage system capabilities for reporting, audits, and workflow efficiency. Experience in retail, distribution, healthcare, construction, or another multi-site, multi-state environment strongly preferred. Exceptionally detail-oriented with strong organizational skills. Handles confidential information with discretion and communicates clearly with employees and leadership alike. Our client is an equal-opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, veteran status, or any other classification protected by state, local or federal law. The pay range on this posting reflects what the company reasonably expects to pay for this position at this location at the time of this posting. #J-18808-Ljbffr