Payroll Manager

Nisqually Indian Tribe•Olympia, WA

About The Position

The Payroll Manager for the Nisqually Tribe oversees payroll operations to ensure employees are paid accurately and on time in compliance with Tribal, state, local, and federal requirements. The role supervises payroll staff responsible for wages, tax withholdings, benefit contributions, and related functions; verifies payroll calculations; resolves discrepancies; maintains payroll records; and oversees payroll distribution through approved Tribal payment methods. The position requires protecting sensitive employee and financial information and working collaboratively with Human Resources, Finance, and other departments to maintain accurate, integrated payroll data. It also supports process improvements and provides guidance, training, and technical support to payroll staff and Tribal employees. The Payroll Manager is expected to maintain confidentiality, ensure the accuracy and security of records, and foster positive relationships with employees, customers, and community members. Strong communication and customer service are essential. Regular attendance is required, and occasional evening or weekend hours may be necessary to meet deadlines. A professional, well-groomed appearance is expected. The position has regular contact with or control over Indian Children and Vulnerable Adults. The posting states that the role is subject to Nisqually Tribe registration requirements and criminal-history restrictions, as well as pre-employment drug screening and background checks.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
At least five years of progressively responsible payroll experience, including hands-on processing and payroll systems management.
At least two years of supervisory or management experience leading a payroll or finance team.
Strong knowledge of federal, state, local, and Tribal payroll laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements.
Strong analytical and mathematical skills, including the ability to audit, reconcile, and forecast payroll data accurately.
Proficiency in payroll software and ability to oversee system maintenance, upgrades, and process improvements.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including advanced Excel functions.
Ability to analyze data, reconcile payroll figures, and forecast.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet strict deadlines, and maintain accuracy under pressure.
High attention to detail, discretion, and ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive payroll and employee information.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to collaborate across departments.
Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.
Pass a State and National (FBI) criminal history background check before employment.
Work occasional evenings or weekends as needed to meet critical deadlines.
Meet the physical demands described in the posting, including frequent standing, walking, hand use and handling, reaching, stooping, crouching or working in awkward positions, repetitive motions, and potentially lifting or moving more than 30 pounds.
Meet the posting's stated criminal-history restrictions for a role with regular contact with or control over Indian Children and Vulnerable Adults.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of the Nisqually Indian Tribe's history, customs, and traditions, and ability to demonstrate cultural sensitivity.
Knowledge of Tribal reporting requirements and experience working in a Tribal organization.

Responsibilities

Supervise and oversee daily payroll staff operations and manage workloads effectively.
Process and review semi-monthly payroll and related reports.
Validate wage calculations, deductions, benefits, and other payroll information.
Oversee maintenance and updates of payroll software to ensure system accuracy and compliance.
Review, audit, and analyze employee timesheets, payroll records, employee information, and electronic time-tracking records.
Ensure compliance with payroll regulations, including wage garnishments, deductions, and taxes, as well as applicable state, local, federal, and Tribal laws.
Maintain detailed payroll records for auditing, reporting, and compliance.
Oversee reconciliation of payroll processing and general ledger reporting.
Review, develop, and implement payroll processes and procedures to improve efficiency, accuracy, and internal controls.
Serve as a point of contact for payroll staff, Human Resources, and other departments regarding payroll matters.
Troubleshoot, investigate, and resolve payroll discrepancies, disputes, and other issues in a timely manner.
Lead, motivate, train, and supervise payroll staff, supporting professional development and performance.
Manage calendar- and fiscal-year-end payroll procedures, including W-2 issuance and other regulatory filings.
Assist in developing, implementing, and maintaining payroll-related financial policies, internal controls, and operational procedures.
Advise departments on payroll interpretation, system functionality, and compliance with accounting standards.
Provide training, technical support, and consultation to Tribal employees on payroll processes, timekeeping, compliance, and financial system functionality.
Lead or participate in initiatives to improve efficiency, accuracy, and customer service.
Monitor payroll metrics and key performance indicators, identify trends, and implement improvements.
Assist with payroll budgets, forecasts, and reporting for Tribal leadership.
Maintain confidentiality of sensitive payroll information and comply with privacy regulations.
Perform other duties as assigned.