Payroll Manager

Payroll Manager

Position Summary:

The Payroll Manager oversees all aspects of payroll operations for the college, ensuring accurate and timely payment to all employees, including faculty, staff, and students. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations and policies. The Payroll Manager collaborates closely with Human Resources, the Dean of Faculty, and other departments, and serves as a liaison with affiliated entities such as SINA and NESCAC. This position also supports the Assistant Controller in reconciling payroll charges to the general ledger.

Key Responsibilities:

• Payroll Processing:
• Manage and supervise the processing of monthly exempt, biweekly non-exempt, and student payrolls. Ensure all payroll data is accurately compiled, entered, and balanced. Oversee the creation and review of payroll registers and reports, and manage the electronic distribution of direct deposit advices and positive pay files.
• Compliance & Reporting:
• Ensure compliance with college policies, as well as federal and state regulations. Prepare and file all required tax reports, including quarterly wage withholding returns, Department of Labor reports, and Workers’ Compensation audits.
• Year-End Reporting:
• Prepare and review W-2 forms for all employees, ensuring accuracy and timely distribution.
• System Maintenance & Testing:
• Lead testing and troubleshooting of PeopleSoft payroll patches and upgrades. Collaborate with IT to resolve system issues and maintain payroll schedules, including adjustments for holidays and special circumstances.
• Audit & Documentation:
• Prepare documentation for fiscal year-end and federal grant audits. Ensure payroll selections and records are accurate and audit-ready.
• Team Leadership & Collaboration:
• Provide leadership and training to the Payroll Administrator. Resolve payroll-related issues, including time reporting discrepancies and benefit-related concerns in partnership with Human Resources.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Strong knowledge of payroll processing, payroll tax regulations, and garnishment procedures
• Proficiency in data entry and payroll systems (PeopleSoft, Oracle preferred)
• Experience with payroll compliance and reporting
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve payroll system issues
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Intermediate to advanced Excel skills

Preferred Experience:

• Experience in higher education or nonprofit payroll environments
• Familiarity with federal grant payroll compliance
• Prior supervisory experience