Payroll Manager

Ashton North LLC; Tempe (AZ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Ashton North LLC in Tempe, AZ, is seeking a seasoned Payroll Manager to lead the payroll function for 750+ hourly and salaried employees across multiple states. The role supervises a payroll specialist and partners with HR, Finance, and Operations to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely processing.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in progressive payroll, multi-state experience, and strong Excel skills, with CPP designation a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive payroll experience including multi-state operations.
• 2+ years of supervisory or management experience preferred.
• Experience with ADP Workforce Now and HRIS/timekeeping systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end multi-site payroll for 750+ employees across states/jurisdictions.
• Ensure accurate calculation of wages, OT, bonuses, and deductions.
• Review payroll batches in ADP and reconcile to General Ledger.
• Maintain payroll records and regulatory documentation.
• Lead payroll compliance, audits, and year-end reporting.

Skills

Payroll knowledge

Excel proficiency

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Confidentiality

Multi-state payroll

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance/HR/Business Administration

Tools

ADP Workforce Now

HRIS

Timekeeping systems

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.