Payroll Director

Agile Defense•McLean, VA

3d•Remote

About The Position

At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges require new solutions. That’s why we always look to the future and embrace change with an unmovable spirit and the courage to build for what comes next. Our vision is to bring adaptive innovation to support our nation's most important missions through the seamless integration of advanced technologies, elite minds, and unparalleled agility—leveraging a foundation of speed, flexibility, and ingenuity to strengthen and protect our nation’s vital interests. The Director of Payroll is responsible for leading and executing all aspects of the company’s payroll function, including multi-state payroll processing, payroll tax compliance, and system management (UKG and Deltek Costpoint). This role requires a hands-on leader who is actively involved in day-to-day payroll operations, issue resolution, and process improvements while managing and developing payroll staff. The Director ensures payroll is accurate, timely, compliant, and audit-ready within a government contracting environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
8+ years of payroll experience, including hands-on payroll processing and direct management of payroll staff
Experience in a government contracting environment with understanding of DCAA/FAR compliance
Strong, hands-on payroll expertise with the ability to execute payroll end-to-end
Deep understanding of payroll taxes, including multi-state withholding, filings, and compliance
Experience managing the full payroll cycle (earnings, deductions, taxes, adjustments, reporting)
Hands-on experience with UKG (or similar payroll system)
Experience with Deltek Costpoint, including payroll postings and labor distribution
Strong understanding of payroll accounting and General Ledger impact
Ability to identify, research, and resolve payroll issues independently
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Effective communication skills and ability to partner cross-functionally

Nice To Haves

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)
Experience in process automation and system optimization
Experience supporting system implementations or upgrades
Advanced Excel skills

Responsibilities

Lead and manage the full payroll function, including multi-state payroll processing
Actively perform payroll processing to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance
Review, troubleshoot, and resolve payroll discrepancies and employee inquiries
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations, including filings and reporting
Oversee payroll systems (UKG), including system administration, troubleshooting, and enhancements
Ensure accurate payroll postings and integration with Deltek Costpoint, including labor distribution
Partner with Accounting and Finance to reconcile payroll to the General Ledger
Support month-end and year-end close processes, including accruals and reconciliations
Maintain audit-ready payroll processes and support internal and external audits
Lead, mentor, and develop payroll staff while maintaining accountability for performance and accuracy
Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce manual effort
Maintain and strengthen internal controls and payroll procedures