Senior Payroll Lead

3 Bridge Networks LLC; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

3 Bridge Networks LLC is seeking a Senior Payroll Lead to own the payroll function in a fast-growing environment. This hands-on, individual contributor role mirrors Payroll Manager responsibilities with high autonomy.

You will manage end-to-end payroll for multi-state employees, ensure compliance with wage laws, partner with Accounting/HR, optimize payroll systems (ADP, Workday, UKG, Paylocity) and provide trusted payroll guidance while safeguarding confidential data.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of progressive payroll experience.
• End-to-end payroll management experience.
• Multi-state payroll experience strongly preferred.
• Solid knowledge of payroll taxes and wage/hour rules.
• Experience with ADP, Workday, UKG or Paylocity.
• Payroll accounting, reconcilations and GL activity.
• Strong Excel and analytical skills.
• Able to own the payroll function and meet deadlines.
• Bachelor's degree preferred; CPP a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end payroll process end-to-end with accuracy.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state and local regulations.
• Partner with Accounting, Finance, HR, and external providers.
• Optimize payroll systems, controls, and reporting.
• Respond to complex payroll questions with discretion.

Skills

End-to-end payroll

Multi-state payroll

Payroll taxes & compliance

Excel & analytics

Communication & partnership

Independent ownership

Education

Bachelor's degree

CPP certification (plus)

Tools

ADP

Workday

UKG

Paylocity

Job description

We are partnering with a growing organization seeking an experienced Senior Payroll Lead to take ownership of its payroll function. This is a senior-level, hands-on role with responsibilities comparable to a Payroll Manager, but structured as an individual contributor position.

The Senior Payroll Lead will oversee the end-to-end payroll process, serve as the primary internal payroll resource, and partner closely with Accounting, Finance, HR, and external providers. The ideal candidate has strong multi-state payroll experience and is comfortable independently managing payroll in a fast-paced environment.

What You’ll Own

End-to-End Payroll

Manage the full payroll cycle, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time. Review payroll data, deductions, benefits, bonuses, commissions, and other compensation-related items.

Payroll Compliance

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including wage and hour requirements, payroll taxes, garnishments, and year-end reporting.

Partner closely with Accounting on payroll journal entries, general ledger reconciliations, accruals, and month-end and year-end close activities.

Systems & Processes

Serve as the internal subject matter expert for payroll systems and processes. Identify opportunities to improve workflows, controls, reporting, and overall payroll efficiency.

Cross-Functional Partnership

Work closely with HR, Benefits, Finance, Accounting, and external payroll providers to resolve issues and ensure accurate employee information.

Employee Support

Act as a senior point of contact for complex payroll questions while handling sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

What We’re Looking For

• 6+ years of progressive payroll experience
• Strong experience managing end-to-end payroll processes
• Multi-state payroll experience strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of payroll taxes, wage and hour regulations, and payroll compliance
• Experience with payroll systems such as ADP, Workday, UKG, Paylocity, or similar platforms
• Experience with payroll accounting, reconciliations, and general ledger activity
• Strong Excel and analytical skills
• Ability to independently own the payroll function and manage competing deadlines
• Strong communication skills and ability to partner across Accounting, Finance, and HR
• Bachelor's degree preferred
• CPP certification is a plus

The Opportunity

This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced payroll professional who wants Payroll Manager-level ownership and visibility while remaining a hands-on individual contributor. The position will have significant autonomy and the opportunity to influence payroll processes, systems, and controls as the organization continues to grow.

Compensation: Competitive base salary plus bonus and benefits. Compensation will vary based on experience and location.