Payroll Manager

Lane Search; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Lane Search is seeking a Payroll Manager to fully own the payroll function for a growing services organization in the Dallas area. Reporting to the CFO, you will modernize processes, ensure accurate multi-state payroll, and scale infrastructure for expansion into new states.

You will manage payroll for ~1,500 employees, drive efficiency, tighten controls, and partner with senior leadership on strategy and reporting.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive payroll experience, with leadership or senior IC experience.
• Strong knowledge of multi-state payroll compliance and tax requirements.
• Hands‑on experience with major payroll systems (ADP, Paychex, UKG, Paylocity, or similar).
• High attention to detail and a track record of accurate, compliant payroll delivery.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize effectively, and drive process improvements.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to partner with senior leadership.

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end payroll processing for approximately 1,500 employees, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and on-time delivery
• Lead process improvement initiatives to strengthen controls, reduce manual work, and increase efficiency
• Manage multi-state payroll compliance as the organization expands into new jurisdictions
• Partner closely with the CFO and leadership team on payroll strategy, reporting, and scaling needs
• Oversee payroll tax filings, garnishments, benefits deductions, and year-end processes
• Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll-related questions from employees and managers
• Identify and implement system or process enhancements to support growth
• Maintain strong internal controls and audit readiness

Skills

Payroll leadership

Multi-state compliance

Process improvement

Attention to detail

Communication

Tools

ADP

Paychex

UKG

Paylocity

Job description

This is a rare opportunity to fully own the payroll function at a growing services organization. Reporting directly to the CFO, you will have the autonomy to evaluate, strengthen, and modernize processes while building a scalable foundation as the company expands into new states. The role is ideal for a hands-on leader who wants real ownership and the chance to grow alongside the business.

About the Role

Our client is a services organization currently supporting approximately 1,500 employees. As the company continues to scale and enter new markets, they are seeking a Payroll Manager who can take complete ownership of the payroll function, improve efficiency and accuracy, and ensure the infrastructure is ready for multi-state growth

Key Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end payroll processing for approximately 1,500 employees, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and on-time delivery
• Lead process improvement initiatives to strengthen controls, reduce manual work, and increase efficiency
• Manage multi-state payroll compliance as the organization expands into new jurisdictions
• Partner closely with the CFO and leadership team on payroll strategy, reporting, and scaling needs
• Oversee payroll tax filings, garnishments, benefits deductions, and year-end processes
• Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll-related questions from employees and managers
• Identify and implement system or process enhancements to support growth
• Maintain strong internal controls and audit readiness

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive payroll experience, with at least 2–3 years in a leadership or senior individual contributor role
• Strong knowledge of multi-state payroll compliance and tax requirements
• Hands‑on experience with major payroll systems (ADP, Paychex, UKG, Paylocity, or similar)
• High attention to detail and a track record of accurate, compliant payroll delivery
• Ability to work independently, prioritize effectively, and drive process improvements
• Strong communication skills and the ability to partner with senior leadership

Preferred

• Experience multi-location service organizations
• Prior experience supporting rapid growth or multi-state expansion
• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or similar credentials