Sr. Manager, Payroll & Benefits

Betterment•New York, NY

6h•$135,000 - $155,000•Hybrid

About The Position

We’re seeking a Senior Manager, Payroll & Benefits to lead and operate our payroll and benefits processes end to end. This is a hands-on role focused on operational excellence, regulatory compliance, strong internal controls, and a high-quality employee experience at scale. You will personally manage payroll processing and oversee the day-to-day administration of benefits programs. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working in the details, ensuring things run smoothly, and building reliable, well-controlled processes. You’ll partner closely with HR, Finance, and external vendors to ensure payroll and benefits operations are compliant, timely, and employee-friendly. This role is based out of our NYC office. Below we've reflected the base salary range we would offer for this position. Actual salaries may vary depending on factors including but not limited to location, experience, and performance. The range listed is just one component of Betterment’s total compensation package for employees.

Requirements

7+ years of progressive, hands-on payroll and benefits experience in a multi-state environment
Demonstrated experience independently running payroll operations
Deep knowledge of U.S. payroll tax regulations and benefits compliance
Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
High level of discretion when handling confidential employee data
Experience with enterprise HRIS and payroll platforms (e.g., Workday, ADP, or similar systems)

Nice To Haves

CPP, CEBS, or related certifications preferred

Responsibilities

Own and execute end-to-end multi-state U.S. payroll processing ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and regulatory compliance
Manage regular and off-cycle payroll, including bonuses, equity, terminations, and other complex pay scenarios
Own payroll tax compliance end-to-end, including federal, state, and local withholding, remittance, registrations, reconciliations, audits, and resolution of tax notices
Oversee quarterly and annual payroll tax filings (941s, state equivalents, FUTA, SUTA) and ensure timely and accurate reporting
Partner with Finance and external advisors on payroll tax strategy, risk mitigation, and process improvements
Partner with Finance on payroll accounting, accruals, journal entries, and close activities
Maintain strong internal controls and documentation to support compliance and audit readiness
Oversee administration of health, retirement, leave, and ancillary benefit programs
Lead open enrollment planning and execution, including vendor coordination and employee communications
Ensure compliance with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and applicable federal and state regulations
Manage relationships with brokers and third-party administrators to ensure service quality and operational effectiveness
Serve as an escalation point for complex payroll and benefits issues
Continuously improve payroll and benefits workflows, systems configuration, and data integrity
Monitor regulatory changes and implement necessary updates