Payroll Manager

Nakupuna Companies•Arlington, VA

About The Position

Nakupuna Companies is looking for a Payroll Manager. The Payroll Manager reports to the Accounting Manager and leads the end-to-end payroll function, supervising a team of 3–6 payroll professionals. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely payroll processing across multiple companies and states, while driving automation, process improvement, and team development. The Payroll Manager serves as the primary payroll systems SME and a trusted partner to Finance, Human Resources, and Nakupuna leadership.

Requirements

Minimum 10 years of progressive payroll experience , including leadership responsibilities
Experience with ADP, Deltek Costpoint and Deltek Time & Expense strongly preferred
Deep knowledge of payroll laws, multi-state payroll, and benefits administration
Proven experience driving process improvement, automation, and system optimization
Advanced Excel and strong data analysis skills
Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage priorities, and partner cross-functionally
Ability to perform repetitive motions with the hands, wrists, and fingers
Ability to engage in and follow audible communications in emergency situations
Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk and working on a computer

Responsibilities

Lead and oversee multi-state, multi-company payroll processing across varying pay cycles, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance
Serve as the primary Subject Matter Expert (SME) for payroll systems, including Deltek Costpoint, Deltek Time & Expense, and ADP
Manage complex payroll transactions including salaries, bonuses, garnishments, taxes, benefits deductions, PTO payouts, SCA H&W, imputed income, and separations
Oversee off-cycle payrolls, year-end processing (W-2s, ACA 1095-Cs), and special payroll runs (bonuses, PTO buy-backs, profit sharing)
Identify, design, and implement payroll process improvements to increase efficiency, accuracy, and scalability
Leverage system functionality, integrations, and reporting to reduce manual work and strengthen internal controls
Lead payroll audits, reconciliations, and data validation efforts in partnership with Finance and Accounting
Lead, train, and mentor payroll team members, fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Establish clear procedures, documentation, and cross-training to support business continuity and team growth
Serve as a resource and escalation point for complex payroll issues and employee inquiries
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations
Oversee unemployment claims, child support orders, garnishments, and other statutory deductions
Manage payroll reporting, headcount reporting, and audit support (payroll, 401(k), workers’ compensation, internal audits)
Partner with HR and Finance to ensure accurate benefits deductions, open enrollment processing, and HRIS data integrity
Serve as 401(k) Plan Administrator, including enrollments, contributions, loans, distributions, testing, and audit coordination
Oversee HRIS/payroll system integrations, file feeds, imports/exports, and data maintenance
Collaborate closely with Finance, Accounting, HR, and leadership on PTO accruals, labor changes, class/status updates, and reporting needs
Provide guidance and clear communication to employees and managers regarding payroll and timekeeping processes