Payroll Manager

WELCOME TO SANTA MONICA COLLEGE! We are excited to recruit for a new Payroll Manager to join our SMC team! Under general direction, this classification directs, plans, manages, integrates, and supervises the day-to-day operations, activities and staff of the District's Payroll Department processing academic, classified, management and student payrolls. The incumbent serves as the District's payroll advisor by evaluating and implementing District payroll policies, regulations, procedures, systems, and labor agreements, in addition to ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws, rules and regulations. This position is scheduled to work full time, 12 months per year at the Santa Monica College District Offices. Please note that all candidates must have authorization to work in the United States; the District does not have the ability to provide sponsorship. What You Will Bring to the College Our ideal candidate is an experienced payroll leader with a strong background managing staff and operations in a public-sector environment, along with in-depth knowledge of payroll compliance, including tax regulations and retirement systems such as CalSTRS and CalPERS. They bring a strong focus on developing, documenting, and improving payroll processes and procedures to ensure consistency, efficiency, and operational continuity. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented and solutions-driven, with the ability to interpret labor agreements, identify discrepancies, and ensure accurate, timely payroll processing. They have experience working within third-party payroll systems and playing a key role in supporting system transitions, including maintaining continuity of operations, troubleshooting issues, and adapting processes during implementation. An effective leader and communicator, they manage priorities, support staff performance, and provide reliable guidance in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, particularly during periods of change. Minimum Qualifications Education Requirement: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration or a closely related field. Experience Requirement: Three (3) years of technical or professional payroll experience, which included one (1) year of lead or supervisory experience. Experience implementing payroll or financial systems is highly desirable. Education/Experience Equivalency: Experience and/or education of the same kind, level and amount as required in the minimum qualifications may be substituted on a year-for-year basis. Licensure and/or Certification: Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or related professional certifications are desirable. Apply Directly on Our Website: #J-18808-Ljbffr