Payroll Manager

SUMMARY The Payroll Manager is responsible for leading and managing all payroll operations to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing for employees. This role oversees payroll systems, process improvements, compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, payroll reporting, audits, and the administration of payroll-related technology. The Payroll Manager partners closely with Human Resources, Finance, IT, Benefits, and external vendors to maintain data integrity, optimize payroll processes, and provide exceptional employee support. Manage activities of multiple timekeeping systems and/or Payroll team members at different locations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing for all employee groups, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local tax regulations.
• Oversee payroll tax filings, year-end processing, W-2s, and other required payroll reporting.
• Conduct payroll audits and reconciliations to identify and resolve discrepancies.
• Manage payroll-related general ledger reconciliations and support Finance during month-end and year-end close processes.
• Develop and maintain payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Research and resolve complex payroll issues, employee inquiries, and compliance concerns.
• Coordinate payroll activities with benefits, compensation, retirement, and timekeeping functions.
• Supervise and issue work schedules, deadlines, and duty assignments for assigned payroll team members.
• Train or instruct employees in job duties, company policies, and/or arrange for training to be provided.
• Evaluate employees' job performance, discuss areas of excellence, areas in need of improvement, and recommend appropriate personnel action.
• Prepares various payroll and management reports, reviews labor distribution postings, reviews quarterly payroll tax reports for any variances and processes adjustments as needed
• Reviews, reconciles, and manages vendor funding data uploads, for 401K plans and FSA/HSA plans, 409A plans, and Union trust fund plans.
• Responds to employee inquiries and requests regarding payroll matters.
• Partner with HRIS, IT, and vendors to maintain system functionality, security, and data integrity.
• Manage payroll system configuration, testing, upgrades, patches, and enhancements.
• Perform system testing for regulatory updates, software releases, and configuration changes.
• Contributes to the team environment by participating in special projects and other job-related duties as assigned by management.
• Maintains client confidence and protects operations by keeping confidential information
• All other duties as assigned.
  
  

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Multi-State Tax & Compliance: Solid understanding of varied state tax requirements, including nexus, reciprocity agreements, withholding rules, and State Unemployment Insurance (SUI).
• Contract Bargaining Units (CBA) Interpretation: Experience interpreting multiple, complex collective bargaining agreements to ensure compliance with union dues, wage differentials, and fringe benefits.
• Systems Knowledge: Proficiency with payroll platforms like Dayforce, Costpoint, ADP Workforce Now (WFN), Workday, or UKG.
• Critical Thinking: Ability to diagnose and resolve discrepancies quickly.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with employees and regulatory agencies.
• Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail in managing payroll tax processes.
  
  

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s in accounting, finance, or a related field, with 8 - 10 years of experience, preferred.
• Relevant work experience of 8 - 10 years accepted in place of formal degree.
• Experience with using Dayforce and/or Costpoint payroll/timekeeping systems is preferred Supervisory Responsibility: This position has supervisory responsibilities. Work Environment: This job operates in a professional office environment and routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and filing cabinets. The role requires being in a stationary position and operating a computer for the majority of the workday.
  
  

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: This is a full-time position. Typical days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, though evening and weekend work may be required based on need.

Travel Requirements: Occasional travel may occur, up to 10%, primarily local during the business day.

Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Our Values: Native American Owned & Proud | Accountable | Team Focused | Innovative | Visionary | Excellence. AAP/EEO Statement: Ho-Chunk, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to age, sex, race, national origin, religion, marital status or physical disability. However, preference may be extended to persons of Indian descent in accordance with applicable laws.