Senior Payroll Manager – Multi-State Compliance

Vaco by Highspring; Chula Vista (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Vaco by Highspring is seeking a Payroll Manager to oversee multi-state payroll operations, ensuring accurate, timely processing and compliance across regions. This role partners with finance, HR, and leadership to maintain payroll integrity and governance.

The ideal candidate will be highly detail-oriented, well-versed in payroll regulations (including CA) and able to manage payroll systems, audits, and reporting with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field and experience processing payroll.
• Strong understanding of payroll tax regulations, wage and hour laws, and multi-state payroll requirements.
• Knowledge of California payroll regulations and federal compliance requirements.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and strong system proficiency.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail.
• Collaborative team player with excellent customer service skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end payroll processing for a multi-state employee population.
• Review and audit timekeeping records, identify discrepancies, and resolve payroll exceptions.
• Monitor time and attendance data and partner with management to address inconsistencies.
• Maintain employee payroll records, including pay rates, classifications, deductions, and status changes.
• Coordinate new hire setups, employee changes, and terminations within payroll and HRIS systems.
• Process payroll adjustments, off-cycle payments, and check corrections as needed.
• Import, validate, and reconcile payroll data between timekeeping and payroll systems.
• Ensure timely distribution of payroll payments through various payment methods.
• Prepare payroll-related reports, labor analyses, and workforce cost reporting.
• Complete payroll account reconciliations and monthly journal entries.
• Support internal and external audits by gathering documentation and responding to inquiries.
• Reconcile benefit deductions and vendor invoices, including retirement and healthcare programs.
• Assist with workers' compensation reporting, compliance, and audit support.
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations.
• Perform additional payroll and accounting-related duties as assigned.

Skills

Payroll regulations

Multi-state payroll

Excel proficiency

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

Tools

ADP payroll systems

HRIS systems

Job description

Vaco by Highspring is seeking a Payroll Manager to oversee multi-state payroll operations, ensuring accurate, timely processing and compliance across regions. This role partners with finance, HR, and leadership to maintain payroll integrity and governance.

The ideal candidate will be highly detail-oriented, well-versed in payroll regulations (including CA) and able to manage payroll systems, audits, and reporting with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.