Senior Payroll Lead

We are partnering with a growing organization seeking an experienced Senior Payroll Lead to take ownership of its payroll function. This is a senior-level, hands-on role with responsibilities comparable to a Payroll Manager, but structured as an individual contributor position.

The Senior Payroll Lead will oversee the end-to-end payroll process, serve as the primary internal payroll resource, and partner closely with Accounting, Finance, HR, and external providers. The ideal candidate has strong multi-state payroll experience and is comfortable independently managing payroll in a fast-paced environment.

What You’ll Own

End-to-End Payroll

Manage the full payroll cycle, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time. Review payroll data, deductions, benefits, bonuses, commissions, and other compensation-related items.

Payroll Compliance

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including wage and hour requirements, payroll taxes, garnishments, and year-end reporting.

Partner closely with Accounting on payroll journal entries, general ledger reconciliations, accruals, and month-end and year-end close activities.

Systems & Processes

Serve as the internal subject matter expert for payroll systems and processes. Identify opportunities to improve workflows, controls, reporting, and overall payroll efficiency.

Cross-Functional Partnership

Work closely with HR, Benefits, Finance, Accounting, and external payroll providers to resolve issues and ensure accurate employee information.

Employee Support

Act as a senior point of contact for complex payroll questions while handling sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

What We’re Looking For

• 6+ years of progressive payroll experience
• Strong experience managing end-to-end payroll processes
• Multi-state payroll experience strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of payroll taxes, wage and hour regulations, and payroll compliance
• Experience with payroll systems such as ADP, Workday, UKG, Paylocity, or similar platforms
• Experience with payroll accounting, reconciliations, and general ledger activity
• Strong Excel and analytical skills
• Ability to independently own the payroll function and manage competing deadlines
• Strong communication skills and ability to partner across Accounting, Finance, and HR
• Bachelor's degree preferred
• CPP certification is a plus

The Opportunity

This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced payroll professional who wants Payroll Manager-level ownership and visibility while remaining a hands-on individual contributor. The position will have significant autonomy and the opportunity to influence payroll processes, systems, and controls as the organization continues to grow.

Compensation: Competitive base salary plus bonus and benefits. Compensation will vary based on experience and location.