Payroll Manager

Whitham Group Executive Search•El Cajon, CA

4d•$90,000 - $125,000•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented Payroll Manager to oversee and optimize payroll operations within a fast-paced, high-growth environment. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in complex compensation structures, particularly commission-based employees like Solar Sales Consultants, and enjoys working cross-functionally to ensure accuracy, compliance, and scalability. The Payroll Manager will lead payroll execution while partnering closely with Finance, Operations, and Sales leadership to ensure all compensation plans are administered accurately and efficiently.

Requirements

5+ years of payroll experience, with at least 2+ years in a leadership or management capacity
Strong experience managing commission-based payroll structures
Advanced proficiency in Excel (modeling, data analysis, reconciliation)
Experience managing or mentoring junior team members
Strong knowledge of California state payroll compliance and labor laws
Experience working with payroll systems (e.g., ADP, Paycom, Workday, or similar)
Ability to operate in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

Nice To Haves

Background in solar, construction, or other commission-heavy industries
Experience supporting or attending labor board hearings or audits
Experience working closely with Sales organizations

Responsibilities

Own end-to-end payroll processing for a the California workforce, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance
Manage and review payroll for both salaried and commission-based employees (approx. 350)
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws
Interpret and administer complex commission plans across sales teams
Partner with Sales and Finance to validate commission calculations and resolve discrepancies
Continuously improve commission tracking, reporting, and payout accuracy
Oversee and mentor a small team, including a Payroll Assistant and Data Analyst
Delegate and review work to ensure accuracy and efficiency across payroll processes
Utilize advanced Excel skills to manage payroll data, commission models, and reporting
Analyze payroll data to identify trends, discrepancies, and opportunities for process improvement
Partner with internal stakeholders to improve payroll systems and workflows
Ensure adherence to all payroll-related compliance requirements
Represent the company in labor board matters, including hearings and audits as needed
Maintain proper documentation and audit readiness at all times
Identify inefficiencies and implement scalable payroll processes
Support automation initiatives and system enhancements to improve accuracy and efficiency