Strategic Payroll & Benefits Lead

AppDirect, Inc; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

AppDirect, Inc. is seeking a meticulous payroll and benefits professional to own the end-to-end payroll and benefits administration for multiple US entities based in Chicago.

You will manage accurate payroll processing, multi-state compliance, and vendor partnerships to ensure timely benefits administration and data integrity. Ideal candidates bring 3–5+ years of US payroll experience, proficiency with HRIS platforms, and strong Excel skills.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of hands-on experience in US payroll processing and benefits administration in a multi-state, multi-entity environment.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state payroll tax regulations and benefits compliance.
• Experience with HRIS and payroll platforms such as ADP, Paylocity, Gusto, Rippling, or similar.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets.
• Ability to handle sensitive compensation data with discretion and integrity.
• Strong communication skills to translate complex payroll topics for employees and stakeholders.
• FPC, CPP, or CEBS certification preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business, Finance, Accounting, or related field - or equivalent practical experience.

Responsibilities

• Process and manage end-to-end payroll for multiple US-based entities.
• Calculate wages, deductions, and tax withholdings accurately.
• Manage multi-state payroll tax registrations, filings, and compliance.
• Lead year-end payroll activities including W-2s and reconciliation.
• Liaise with payroll vendors and resolve issues promptly.
• Audit payroll and benefits records for data integrity.

Skills

Payroll processing

Benefits administration

Multi-state payroll

Regulatory compliance

Data privacy

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR/Business/Finance

Tools

ADP

Paylocity

Gusto

Rippling

Job description

AppDirect, Inc. is seeking a meticulous payroll and benefits professional to own the end-to-end payroll and benefits administration for multiple US entities based in Chicago.

You will manage accurate payroll processing, multi-state compliance, and vendor partnerships to ensure timely benefits administration and data integrity. Ideal candidates bring 3–5+ years of US payroll experience, proficiency with HRIS platforms, and strong Excel skills.