Payroll Manager

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for a Payroll Manager to lead payroll operations for a multi-state workforce based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This Contract position will oversee accurate biweekly payroll processing for approximately 900 employees while ensuring strong reporting, compliance, and internal coordination. The role is well suited for someone who brings deep full-cycle payroll expertise, works comfortably in an automated environment, and can provide steady oversight to payroll activities and related processes.

Responsibilities:
• Lead end-to-end payroll administration for a large employee population across multiple states, ensuring each biweekly cycle is completed accurately and on schedule.
• Guide and support payroll team members by providing direction, coaching, and day-to-day oversight of payroll operations.
• Maintain clear payroll procedures and training materials so staff and managers can follow consistent processes and resolve questions efficiently.
• Review payroll data involving earnings, deductions, benefit withholdings, taxes, and third-party payments to confirm proper processing and compliance.
• Partner with finance and human resources to investigate discrepancies, address payroll-related concerns, and support accurate financial reporting.
• Oversee 401(k) payroll activity, including contribution tracking, reporting, and audit support, while monitoring related timelines and controls.
• Prepare and monitor payroll reports required for workers’ compensation, grant compliance, and other internal or external reporting needs.
• Reconcile payroll-related general ledger balances and respond to requests connected to audits, program reviews, and financial examinations.
• Coordinate payroll continuity and reporting accuracy across supporting systems and external payroll service partners, including timekeeping and accounting platforms.
• Track paid time off balances and serve as a backup resource for payroll processing when operational coverage is needed.• Demonstrated experience managing full-cycle payroll in a high-volume environment supporting more than 500 employees.
• Strong knowledge of multi-state payroll practices, payroll controls, and compliance requirements.
• Hands-on background overseeing biweekly payroll and reviewing payroll transactions from time entry through final reporting.
• Experience using payroll systems such as UKG Pro or comparable platforms in an automated processing environment.
• Ability to interpret payroll reports, reconcile balances, and support audits, filings, and compliance-driven documentation.
• Preferred supervisory experience with the ability to lead staff, assign priorities, and maintain accountability across payroll functions.
• Strong collaboration and problem-solving skills for working with accounting, human resources, managers, and external payroll partners.