Payroll Manager

Payroll ManagerLocation: Van Nuys, CaliforniaPay: $52 - $63 / HourContract: Contract to hireEmployment Type: Full-TimePosition Summary: We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Payroll Manager to oversee and manage all aspects of payroll operations for a multi-state workforce. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely payroll processing while maintaining strong internal controls and providing exceptional support to employees, management, Human Resources, and Finance.The ideal candidate is a proactive payroll professional with deep knowledge of multi-state payroll regulations, tax compliance, payroll systems, and accounting principles. This individual will play a key role in maintaining payroll accuracy, improving processes, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws.Key ResponsibilitiesManage the preparation, processing, and administration of biweekly payroll for a multi-state employee population.Ensure employees are paid accurately and on time while maintaining strong payroll controls and confidentiality.Review payroll records and timekeeping data to identify, investigate, and resolve discrepancies.Oversee the production and distribution of paychecks, direct deposits, tax statements, and employee payroll notifications.Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local wage and hour laws, payroll tax regulations, and employment requirements.Monitor legislative and regulatory changes affecting payroll operations and implement necessary updates.Process payroll-related documents, including tax withholding forms, wage garnishments, child support orders, and other mandatory deductions.Maintain accurate employee payroll information in Paylocity, including benefits, deductions, direct deposit, tax withholdings, and personal data.Oversee payroll system records, data integrity, and quality control processes.Manage payroll system enhancements, updates, and process improvements driven by business needs or regulatory requirements.Monitor and reconcile benefit deduction file feeds from benefit administration systems to ensure payroll accuracy.Prepare payroll journal entries and reconcile payroll reports each payroll cycle.Reconcile payroll-related general ledger accounts on a monthly basis.Generate and distribute payroll reports for Finance, Human Resources, and department leadership.Support audits and provide payroll-related documentation as needed.Establish and maintain payroll procedures, controls, and best practices.Serve as a subject matter expert on payroll-related questions and tax matters.Partner closely with Finance, Human Resources, and operational leaders to address payroll concerns and improve processes.Perform other duties as assigned.QualificationsRequiredAssociate's degree or equivalent combination of education and payroll experience.Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification.Minimum of 5 years of payroll processing experience for a multi-state employer.Experience with payroll systems such as Paylocity, ADP, PeopleSoft, or similar platforms.Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll regulations and tax laws.Experience preparing payroll reconciliations, journal entries, and payroll reporting.Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Outlook.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to resolve complex payroll issues.Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.Ability to manage confidential information with professionalism and discretion.Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively across all levels of an organization.PreferredBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.Experience in payroll process improvement and system implementations.What Makes You SuccessfulHighly accurate and detail-oriented.Proactive and solutions-focused.Strong sense of ownership and accountability.Ability to prioritize multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Professional, approachable, and customer-service oriented.Comfortable working in a highly visible role that interacts with employees and leadership across the organization.BenefitsWe offer a competitive compensation package, comprehensive benefits, paid time off, and opportunities for professional growth and development.