Payroll Manager

RWM & Company•Centre Township, PA

About The Position

We are seeking a collaborative, detail-oriented Payroll Manager to lead the payroll team within a growing CPA firm. This hands-on leadership role requires strong technical payroll expertise, a deep understanding of payroll tax compliance, and a commitment to exceptional client service. The Payroll Manager oversees daily payroll operations for multiple clients, ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and mentors and develops team members. The role also contributes to firm culture through accountability, teamwork, and a client-focused approach. The position combines team leadership, multi-state payroll processing and compliance, client service and advisory support, and payroll systems and process management. The firm describes its environment as professional and growth-oriented, with flexible schedules and reduced summer hours. Employees are encouraged to contribute to the firm’s processes, decisions, planning, and culture.

Requirements

5–8+ years of payroll experience, preferably within a CPA firm or multi-client environment.
At least 2 years of experience supervising or leading a team.
Strong knowledge of federal, multi-state, and local payroll tax compliance.
Experience processing high-volume and/or multi-state payroll.
Proficiency in the ADP payroll software platform and other accounting software.
Strong understanding of wage and hour laws.
High attention to detail and strong analytical skills.
Leadership and team development skills.
Accountability and an ownership mindset.
Strong client service orientation.
Excellent communication skills.
A process-driven, solutions-oriented approach.
Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
High level of professionalism and integrity.

Nice To Haves

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation.
Experience working in a professional services or CPA firm environment.
Experience managing payroll audits and responding to tax notices.

Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and develop a team of payroll specialists.
Review payroll team work for accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
Provide ongoing training and technical guidance on payroll processing and tax regulations.
Foster a collaborative, client-focused team environment.
Assist with workflow management, capacity planning, and process improvement.
Oversee multi-state payroll processing for a portfolio of clients across various industries.
Ensure accurate and timely processing of earnings, deductions, garnishments, benefits, and tax withholdings.
Review and approve payroll tax filings, including Forms 941 and 940, state withholding, unemployment, and local taxes.
Ensure timely payroll tax payments and resolve tax notices.
Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations.
Support year-end processes, including W-2s, 1099s, and reconciliations.
Serve as the primary escalation point for payroll-related client questions.
Build trusted client relationships through responsive and proactive communication.
Identify opportunities to improve client payroll processes and internal controls.
Collaborate with tax and accounting teams to provide seamless client service.
Oversee payroll software administration and system optimization.
Recommend and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce risk.
Maintain documentation of payroll procedures and best practices.
Ensure data security and confidentiality standards are upheld.