Payroll Operations Leader – Multi-State & Compliance

Mariner Finance; Maryland; On-site; USD 94,000 - 118,000; Full time

Job summary

Mariner Finance is seeking an experienced payroll leader to oversee the end-to-end payroll function for a multi-state workforce in Maryland and beyond. You will ensure accurate, timely processing and strict regulatory compliance, while partnering with HR, Finance, IT, and external vendors to optimize service levels and risk containment.

The role requires deep payroll expertise, strong leadership, and the ability to drive process improvements, controls, and year-end activities such as W-2s and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; 4 years of college coursework or 4 years of experience may substitute for degree.
• Six+ years of progressive payroll experience in a high-volume, multi-state environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end payroll function for multi-state processing.
• Own payroll operations, including calculations, validation, balancing, and approvals.
• Maintain and enhance payroll systems, testing, upgrades, and issue resolution.
• Develop and improve payroll processes and internal controls for efficiency and compliance.
• Audit payroll transactions and resolve discrepancies promptly.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and reporting.
• Act as SME on payroll laws and regulatory changes.
• Partner with HR, Finance, IT, and vendors to push initiatives and accuracy.
• Lead year-end payroll activities including W-2 processing and ACA filings.

Skills

Payroll leadership

Multi-state payroll

Regulatory compliance

Team leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR/Finance/Accounting

Tools

Dayforce

UKG

Job description

Mariner Finance is seeking an experienced payroll leader to oversee the end-to-end payroll function for a multi-state workforce in Maryland and beyond. You will ensure accurate, timely processing and strict regulatory compliance, while partnering with HR, Finance, IT, and external vendors to optimize service levels and risk containment.

The role requires deep payroll expertise, strong leadership, and the ability to drive process improvements, controls, and year-end activities such as W-2s and