Payroll Manager

Mercalis•Morrisville, NC

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Payroll Manager is responsible for overseeing and directing all aspects of payroll operations for a multi-state organization of approximately 3,000 employees. This role ensures accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing while managing a team and maintaining adherence to federal, state, and local regulations. The Payroll Manager partners closely with HR, Finance, and IT to optimize payroll systems, support audits, and enhance processes. The ideal candidate will possess deep knowledge of payroll regulations, multi-state compliance requirements, payroll tax administration, and payroll systems management. Experience with Workday is highly desired and will be considered a strong advantage.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field (or equivalent experience).
7+ years of payroll experience, including 3+ years in a supervisory or management role.
Experience managing payroll for 1,000+ employees; multi-state experience required.
Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements across multiple states.
Proficiency with payroll systems (e.g., ADP, Workday, UKG, or similar).
Advanced Excel and data analysis skills.
Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or similar certification.
Accuracy and attention to detail
Confidentiality and integrity
Leadership and team development
Process improvement mindset
Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

Experience with Workday is highly desired and will be considered a strong advantage.
Experience in a high-growth or publicly traded company
Background in system implementations or automation initiatives
Experience working in a private equity–backed environment, including familiarity with investor reporting, cash management discipline, and performance-driven operating models.
Prefer candidates who can type at least 35 words per minute with 97% accuracy.
Flexibility to travel as needed is preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee end-to-end payroll processing for multi-state employees (hourly, salaried, exempt, non-exempt).
Ensure accurate calculation of wages, overtime, bonuses, commissions, and deductions.
Manage payroll schedules (weekly, biweekly, semi-monthly as applicable).
Review and approve payroll prior to final submission and disbursement.
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll laws and tax regulations.
Monitor and implement regulatory changes impacting payroll operations.
Oversee tax filings, garnishments, benefits deductions, and year-end processes (W-2s, 1099s).
Coordinate internal and external audits related to payroll.
Lead, mentor, and develop payroll staff; establish performance goals and training plans.
Allocate workload and ensure adequate staffing for payroll cycles.
Foster a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Manage payroll systems and integrations with HRIS, timekeeping, and accounting platforms.
Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce errors.
Collaborate with IT and vendors on system upgrades, implementations, and troubleshooting.
Partner with HR on employee data changes, benefits, and compliance matters.
Work with Finance on payroll accounting, reconciliations, and reporting.
Support leadership with payroll analytics, forecasting, and labor cost insights.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision plans, including HSA- and FSA-eligible options, with Valeris contributing toward premium costs
Additional health support, including telehealth and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services
Company match on Health Savings Account contributions
Free Basic Life and AD&D coverage equal to your annual earnings, with a minimum of $50,000 and a maximum of $300,000
Company-paid Short-Term Disability coverage, with the option to purchase Long-Term Disability
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with 100% match on the first 5% you contribute, with immediate vesting
Paid Time Off (PTO) and Sick Leave to support work-life balance
Team members receive nine paid holidays plus two floating holidays
Opportunities for advancement in a company that supports personal and professional growth
A challenging, stimulating work environment that encourages new ideas
Work for a company that values diversity and makes deliberate efforts to create an inclusive workplace
A mission-driven, inclusive culture where your work makes a meaningful impact