Payroll Assistant Manager

Job Title: Payroll Assistant Manager

Position Summary

The Payroll Assistant Manager is responsible for leading day-to-day payroll operations while actively participating in payroll processing. This role ensures accurate and timely weekly payroll execution, maintains team coverage, and serves as the first level of leadership for payroll staff. The Payroll Assistant Manager supports operational continuity and partners on process improvements and payroll strategy execution.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Operations

• Oversee and process weekly payroll for a high-volume workforce across multiple locations
• Ensure accurate collection, review, approval, and maintenance of employee time and attendance records
• Process pay changes, tax updates, deductions, leave usage, and payroll corrections
• Conduct and oversee payroll audits to ensure accuracy and compliance
• Manage payroll postings and distribution processes

Team Leadership

• Provide day-to-day leadership and direction to payroll team members
• Assign workload, prioritize tasks, and ensure deadlines are consistently met
• Maintain adequate payroll coverage and monitor team attendance
• Train, mentor, and support payroll staff in daily responsibilities
• Serve as escalation point for complex payroll issues

Reporting & Compliance

• Prepare and review payroll reports (daily, weekly, monthly, annual)
• Ensure proper documentation, recordkeeping, and retention practices
• Support internal audits and payroll reconciliations
• Maintain compliance with payroll policies and procedures

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

• Partner with internal teams to resolve payroll discrepancies and inquiries
• Provide payroll guidance and support to employees and leadership
• Participate in payroll system enhancements and process improvements
• Assist with special projects as needed

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; associate degree in Accounting or related field preferred
• 3 years of payroll experience, preferably in a high-volume environment
• Prior experience leading, mentoring, or supervising others preferred
• Experience with payroll and timekeeping systems required
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Office Suite
• Strong data entry and 10-key skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Proven ability to meet strict payroll deadlines
• Leadership and team coordination skills
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• High level of integrity and confidentiality

Work Environment

• Office-based environment with prolonged periods of sitting
• May require early hours or schedule flexibility to meet payroll deadlines