Payroll Director: Systems, Compliance & Leadership

Metra; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 179,000; Full time

Job summary

Metra seeks a Director of Payroll to lead and oversee all payroll operations for a large multi-county transit agency in Illinois. The role ensures accurate tax treatment, timely disbursements, and compliance with federal, state, and local requirements, including EFTPS and fringe benefits accounting.

The position reports to the Controller and manages staff, audits, and ERP system enhancements while coordinating with HR and IT to maintain strong internal controls and data integrity across

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related discipline, or in lieu of a degree, four years of education/experience.
• Eight (8) years of payroll processing experience with Kronos or other payroll systems.
• Five (5) years of supervisory/management experience.
• Knowledge of CBAs related to payroll activities and practices.
• Strong GAAP knowledge and accounting principles.
• Familiarity with DOL/IRS rules and reporting requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and ERP systems like D365.
• Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent planning, organizational, and detail orientation.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Ability to lead and delegate across multiple functions.
• Ability to interpret payroll principles and systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee payroll operations for union and non-union employees.
• Enhance payroll processes and ERP system capabilities.
• Ensure compliance with agency policies and federal/state regulations.
• Coordinate with HR and IT; manage audits and data integrity.
• Approve payroll payments including employer taxes and benefits (~$300M).
• Lead staffing decisions, performance evaluations, and disciplinary actions.
• Maintain strong internal controls and accurate payroll records.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Discretion

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance/BA

4 years experience in lieu of degree

Tools

Kronos timekeeping

ERP systems (D365)

Microsoft 365

Job description

Metra seeks a Director of Payroll to lead and oversee all payroll operations for a large multi-county transit agency in Illinois. The role ensures accurate tax treatment, timely disbursements, and compliance with federal, state, and local requirements, including EFTPS and fringe benefits accounting.

The position reports to the Controller and manages staff, audits, and ERP system enhancements while coordinating with HR and IT to maintain strong internal controls and data integrity across