Payroll Manager

Rio Tinto • Chicago, IL

4d • $130,000 - $154,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

We are looking for a Payroll Manager to lead and optimize end‑to‑end payroll operations while establishing strong global payroll governance across a complex, multi‑jurisdictional environment. This is a great opportunity for a results‑driven and detail‑oriented professional to design, stabilize during transition, and elevate payroll processes within a global organization. This role offers the opportunity to operate in a dynamic environment, supporting both local payroll execution and global oversight in a hybrid delivery model. Reporting to the Manager Human Resources and working in a collaborative and fast‑paced environment within the Human Resources team, you will be:

Requirements

• A commitment to the safety of yourself and your team
• 7–10+ years of experience in U.S. payroll, including 3–5+ years in a leadership role managing payroll operations
• Strong knowledge of multi‑state payroll regulations and compliance requirements (California experience is considered an asset)
• Experience working in complex environments such as unionized, industrial, manufacturing, or mining sectors
• Proven experience with payroll systems and integrations (e.g., ADP, Workday, SAP, UKG, Oracle)
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and stakeholder management skills

Nice To Haves

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation or equivalent
• Experience supporting divestment, transformation, or stand‑alone payroll setup
• Exposure to global payroll governance or multi‑country payroll operations

Responsibilities

• Overseeing the full payroll lifecycle, from timekeeping inputs through to net pay, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness
• Leading the design and implementation of payroll operating models, including processes, controls, and service delivery frameworks
• Ensuring compliance with all applicable payroll regulations, including multi‑state and statutory requirements, while maintaining audit readiness
• Establishing and enforcing global payroll governance standards to ensure alignment across regions and vendors
• Managing payroll systems, integrations, and vendor relationships to support seamless data flows and operational efficiency
• Partnering with HR, Finance, and IT to enhance payroll accuracy, drive continuous improvement, and resolve issues effectively
• Leading payroll transition initiatives, including system implementations, parallel testing, and post‑implementation stabilization
• Building, coaching, and developing a high‑performing payroll team while supporting a scalable, stand‑alone operating model

Benefits

• Competitive base salary reflective of your skills and experience with an annual incentive bonus.
• Access to top-tier family-friendly health programs including medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, and various voluntary benefits.
• Excellent retirement plan including up to 6% defined company contribution; Generous 401k matching program.
• Attractive share ownership plan.
• Comprehensive leave policies which cover all the moments that matter in life: PTO (paid time off), paid holidays, and paid bereavement leave.
• A generous parental leave policy, which ensures you’re able to spend quality time with your new family.
• Discount programs for leisure purposes and access to Virgin Pulse with incentives supporting your wellbeing.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which provides confidential counselling or expert guidance for you and your family to help get through life’s challenges.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed