Payroll Manager

We are a fast-paced business with ambitious growth plans; so if you are dedicated, enthusiastic and always seeking ways to improve, you’ll enjoy a career with us! Build the Future of Payroll & Shared Services Ontic is a leading global aerospace OEM trusted by the world’s aviation leaders. Ontic specializes in precision engineering, MRO, and new solutions for parts at risk of obsolescence. With over 1,700 employees across four time zones and nine sites, we have more than doubled in size since 2019 and are continuing to grow at pace. We’re looking for an exceptional leader to transform and lead our US Payroll & Shared Services function. As our Head of US Payroll & Shared Services , you will report to the HR Director (West Coast) and will have a flexible hybrid work structure ideally located near one of our CA, NC, or FL locations. This is more than a payroll leadership role—it’s an opportunity to build a best-in-class operation that delivers compliance, operational excellence, outstanding employee service, and scalable processes to support a fast-growing organization. You’ll lead the strategy, governance, and continuous improvement of our multi-state payroll operations while driving the evolution of our HR shared services capability. Working closely with HR, Finance, IT, Legal, and senior business leaders, you’ll ensure our payroll and people operations are efficient, compliant, data-driven, and ready to support future growth through both organic expansion and acquisitions. If you’re passionate about simplifying complex processes, leveraging technology, developing high-performing teams, and creating exceptional employee experiences, we’d love to hear from you. To be considered for the Head of US Payroll & Shared Services opening, here’s what you’ll need to bring with you: 10+ years of progressive payroll leadership experience within complex, multi-state US organizations. Proven experience leading payroll, HR operations, or shared services teams. Extensive knowledge of US payroll legislation, tax regulations, and employment compliance. Expert knowledge of California payroll laws and regulations is essential , including wage and hour compliance, overtime rules, meal and rest break requirements, final pay obligations, wage statement compliance, paid sick leave, and other California employment legislation. Experience managing payroll operations across multiple states and jurisdictions. Strong HRIS and payroll systems experience (Workday, ADP, UKG, Dayforce, Oracle HCM, SAP SuccessFactors, or similar). Demonstrated success leading payroll transformation, process improvement, automation, and system optimization. Strong analytical skills with experience developing executive dashboards and performance metrics. Experience partnering with Finance, HR, IT, Legal, and senior leadership. Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills. Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification is preferred Experience supporting mergers, acquisitions, or rapid organizational growth is desired. Experience within a global organization is preferable. Lean, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement certification is preferred Experience implementing automation or AI-enabled operational improvements preferred. As Head of US Payroll & Shared Services, you will: Lead all aspects of US payroll operations across multiple states, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and exceptional service delivery. Establish scalable payroll processes, controls, and governance that support organizational growth. Partner with HRIS and Technology teams to optimize payroll systems, reporting, integrations, and automation. Act as the organization’s expert on US payroll legislation and compliance, ensuring all federal, state, and local requirements are met. Provide strategic guidance to senior leadership on payroll compliance risks and implement sustainable solutions. Drive continuous improvement initiatives that simplify processes, reduce manual effort, and enhance employee experience. Lead and develop a high-performing Payroll and Shared Services team, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and customer service. Build strong partnerships with Finance to deliver accurate payroll reporting, reconciliations, and self-service analytics. Develop meaningful dashboards, KPIs, and executive reporting that provide insight into operational performance and workforce trends. Standardize payroll and shared services processes across the organization while appropriately managing state-specific requirements. Manage relationships with payroll providers and third-party vendors, ensuring high service levels and continuous value. Oversee US HR policies, standard operating procedures, governance documentation, and knowledge management. Lead improvements to HR service delivery, including HR service desk performance, reporting, and employee support. Support global HR operational initiatives and automation projects where appropriate. Our Benefits: Comprehensive medical insurance Competitive PTO, holiday pay, and sick leave Company 401K plan with up to 4% matched contribution Annual bonus program (varies by level and discretionary based on company and individual performance) Flexible working arrangements Paid volunteering opportunities Access to mental health champions across our sites Commitment to development Employee referral program #LI-Onsite EOE/Minority/Female/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Veteran Compensation Pay Range $140,000-$165,000/based on experience Please click here to review Ontic’s California Consumer Privacy Act policy. Ontic Engineering and Manufacturing Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. This position must meet export control compliance requirements. To meet export control compliance requirements, a “U.S. Person ” as defined by 22. C.F.R. §120.15 is required. “U.S. Person” includes U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, asylee, or refugee. #J-18808-Ljbffr