Payroll Manager

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Payroll Manager to lead accurate and timely payroll operations for a large, multi-state workforce in Novato, California. This position oversees the complete payroll cycle, ensures compliance with applicable wage and tax regulations, and supports smooth processing for bi-monthly payroll runs. The ideal candidate brings strong operational leadership, deep payroll expertise, and hands-on experience in a high-volume environment.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop the payroll team, ensuring accurate, timely processing and excellent employee support.
• Oversee multi-state payroll operations, including pay calculations, deductions, taxes, timekeeping, and payroll records.
• Review payroll data, resolve discrepancies, and manage special payments, corrections, and employee changes.
• Ensure compliance with payroll laws, tax regulations, audits, and company policies.
• Partner with HR, Finance, and benefits teams to support payroll accuracy, reporting, and reconciliations.
• Prepare payroll reports, maintain documentation, and safeguard confidential employee information.
• Improve payroll processes, controls, systems, and workflows to enhance efficiency and service quality.
• Serve as the primary resource for payroll issues and support payroll-related projects and system initiatives.

• Bachelor’s degree and/or CPP preferred or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of payroll experience, including multi-state payroll
• 2+ years leading or supervising payroll staff.
• Strong knowledge of payroll processing, taxes, compliance, deductions, timekeeping, and reporting.
• Advanced Excel skills and strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to handle confidential information with accuracy and professionalism.

Preferred

• CPP certification.
• Experience with payroll allocations, job costing, audits, year-end processing, and process improvement