Payroll Manager

Aston Carter•Des Moines, IA

11d•$36 - $43•Hybrid

About The Position

The Payroll Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing the organization’s end-to-end payroll functions to ensure accurate, compliant, and timely payroll processing. This role reports to the Finance department but collaborates closely with Human Resources and operational leaders, driving continuous improvement, maintaining reliable payroll systems, and ensuring a high level of service to employees.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of payroll laws, regulations, tax requirements, and industry best practices.
Proficiency in configuring, troubleshooting, and maintaining payroll and HRIS systems.
Exceptional precision in calculations, data entry, reconciliations, and reporting.
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Human Resources, or related field required.
Minimum of 10 years of payroll processing experience required; experience in full cycle payroll preferred.
Strong Microsoft Excel skills and ability to learn new software applications quickly.
Valid driver’s license, auto liability insurance, and reliable transportation if travel is required.

Responsibilities

Manage and execute end-to-end payroll for all employees (hourly, salaried, full-time, part-time, PRN).
Review and approve payroll data, including timesheets, compensation changes, deductions, bonuses, and commissions.
Ensure accurate calculation of wages, overtime, benefits, PTO, and other compensations.
Process off-cycle payments, corrections, and manual checks when needed.
Ensure proper maintenance of payroll records and completion of all federal and state tax filings, ACH transactions, quarterly/annual payroll reports, year-end W-2 processing, and ACA reporting.
Collaborate with Human Resources to ensure timely and accurate processing of all leave types, including FMLA, STD, non-FMLA leave, PTO, and workers’ compensation.
Manage involuntary deductions such as garnishments, levies, and child support orders to ensure accurate and compliant withholdings.
Serve as primary point of contact for payroll-related questions, including resolving pay discrepancies, tax inquiries, and benefit deduction issues, as well as providing employee education regarding payroll policies and procedures.
Assist with system maintenance or changes in HRIS, in collaboration with the HRIS administrator.
Produce accurate labor distribution, grant-required, productivity, and other requested reports.
Prepare payroll-related journal entries and reconcile payroll general ledger accounts.
Support internal and external audits, including the annual 401(k) audit, by providing documentation and ensuring data integrity.
Collaborate with Accounting and Human Resources on process improvement initiatives and special projects.
Participate in cross-training within the Accounting team to support business continuity.
Perform other accounting functions or Human Resources projects as directed by the leader and support cross-training initiatives within the accounting team.