Payroll Manager

The Payroll Manager leads accurate, timely payroll for 750+ hourly and salaried employees across multiple sites, states, and jurisdictions. This hands-on role supervises a payroll specialist and manages payroll processes, controls, and ADP systems. The manager also supports audits and partners with Human Resources, Finance, and Operations to resolve issues, improve efficiency , and maintain compliance with federal, state, and local requirements .

• Manage and oversee the end-to-end multi-site payroll process for 750+ employees, including hourly and salaried across multiple states and jurisdictions.
• Ensure accurate calculation and processing of wages, salaries, OT, bonuses, route pay, and deductions.
• Coordinate with Transportation Management and General Managers to verify the accuracy of timekeeping and route pay and promptly resolve discrepancies.
• Review and approve payroll batches in ADP before payroll is processed and verify that payroll results are accurately reflected in the General Ledger.
• Maintain payroll records and associated supporting documentation.
• Process special payrolls, off-cycle payments, and final paychecks as required.
• Maintain payroll system tax settings, earning and deduction codes, General Ledger mapping, and other regulatory or technical configurations.
• Communicate changes and their impact to affected departments and employees, as appropriate. Address employee payroll inquiries and resolve payroll discrepancies.
• Support HR and management with payroll-related reporting and data requests.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations.
• Oversee the accuracy and timely completion of payroll tax filings, deposits, and year-end reporting, including Forms W-2 and related filings.
• Monitor regulatory changes and implement necessary updates to payroll policies and procedures.
• Coordinate payroll-related audits and provide requested documentation.
• Lead year-end payroll close by reconciling final payroll data, confirming the accuracy and distribution of Forms W-2, completing system close and reset activities , and verifying that final files are accurate and complete.

Systems and Process Management

• Monitor and troubleshoot interfaces between payroll, HRIS, timekeeping, and accounting systems to support accurate data flow .
• Lead payroll system upgrades, testing, and process improvements.
• Develop and maintain payroll internal controls.
• Establish and enforce strong payroll governance including calendars, procedures, approvals, and exception protocols.
• Identify opportunities to increase efficiency through automation and process enhancements.

Financial and Accounting Support

• Partner with Accounting and Finance on payroll-related general ledger reconciliations .
• Prepare payroll accruals and support month-end and year-end close activities.
• Partner with Accounting and Finance to ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Analyze payroll trends and provide management reporting as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.

Experience

• 7+ years of progressive payroll experience , including responsibility for complex, multi-state payroll operations .
• 2+ years of supervisory or management experience preferred.
• Experience in processing multi-state payrolls required
• Experience with ADP Workforce Now payroll, HRIS, and timekeeping systems preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and wage and hour requirements.
• Understanding of accounting principles and general ledger reconciliations.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• High level of attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation.
• Experience in manufacturing, consumer packaged goods , or distribution.