Payroll Manager

The Keystone Distinction Group; Tempe (AZ); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Keystone Distinction Group is seeking a skilled Payroll Manager to lead the end-to-end payroll process for 750+ hourly and salaried employees across multiple sites in Arizona and beyond. This hands-on role supervises a payroll specialist and partners with HR, Finance, and Operations to ensure accurate, compliant payroll processing.

Responsibilities include managing ADP Workforce Now, maintaining tax settings, preparing payroll reporting, and coordinating audits while driving process

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive payroll experience across multiple states
• 2+ years of supervisory or management experience
• Experience in processing multi-state payrolls
• Experience with ADP Workforce Now payroll, HRIS, and timekeeping systems

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end multi-site payroll process for 750+ employees across multiple states.
• Review and approve payroll batches in ADP, ensure GL posting.
• Maintain payroll records and tax settings.
• Support audits and collaborate with HR, Finance, Operations.
• Develop internal controls and governance for payroll processes.
• Prepare payroll-related reporting and data requests.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Discretion with confidential info

Multi-tasking

Prioritization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

ADP Workforce Now

HRIS

Timekeeping systems

General Ledger software

Job description

The Payroll Manager leads accurate, timely payroll for 750+ hourly and salaried employees across multiple sites, states, and jurisdictions. This hands‑on role supervises a payroll specialist and manages payroll processes, controls, and ADP systems. The manager also supports audits and partners with Human Resources, Finance, and Operations to resolve issues, improve efficiency, and maintain compliance with federal, state, and local requirements.

Position Responsibilities:

Payroll Administration

• Manage and oversee the end-to-end multi-site payroll process for 750+ employees, including hourly and salaried across multiple states and jurisdictions.
• Ensure accurate calculation and processing of wages, salaries, OT, bonuses, route pay, and deductions.
• Coordinate with Transportation Management and General Managers to verify the accuracy of timekeeping and route pay and promptly resolve discrepancies.
• Review and approve payroll batches in ADP before payroll is processed and verify that payroll results are accurately reflected in the General Ledger.
• Maintain payroll records and associated supporting documentation.
• Process special payrolls, off-cycle payments, and final paychecks as required.
• Maintain payroll system tax settings, earning and deduction codes, General Ledger mapping, and other regulatory or technical configurations.
• Communicate changes and their impact to affected departments and employees, as appropriate. Address employee payroll inquiries and resolve payroll discrepancies.
• Support HR and management with payroll-related reporting and data requests.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations.
• Oversee the accuracy and timely completion of payroll tax filings, deposits, and year-end reporting, including Forms W-2 and related filings.
• Monitor regulatory changes and implement necessary updates to payroll policies and procedures.
• Coordinate payroll-related audits and provide requested documentation.
• Lead year-end payroll close by reconciling final payroll data, confirming the accuracy and distribution of Forms W-2, completing system close and reset activities, and verifying that final files are accurate and complete.

Systems and Process Management

• Monitor and troubleshoot interfaces between payroll, HRIS, timekeeping, and accounting systems to support accurate data flow.
• Lead payroll system upgrades, testing, and process improvements.
• Develop and maintain payroll internal controls.
• Establish and enforce strong payroll governance including calendars, procedures, approvals, and exception protocols.
• Identify opportunities to increase efficiency through automation and process enhancements.

Financial and Accounting Support

• Partner with Accounting and Finance on payroll-related general ledger reconciliations.
• Prepare payroll accruals and support month-end and year-end close activities.
• Partner with Accounting and Finance to ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Analyze payroll trends and provide management reporting as needed.

Qualifications:

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.

Experience

• 7+ years of progressive payroll experience, including responsibility for complex, multi-state payroll operations.
• 2+ years of supervisory or management experience preferred.
• Experience in processing multi-state payrolls required.
• Experience with ADP Workforce Now payroll, HRIS, and timekeeping systems preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and wage and hour requirements.
• Understanding of accounting principles and general ledger reconciliations.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• High level of attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation.
• Experience in manufacturing, consumer packaged goods, or distribution.