1

Payroll Lead Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Collaborate with NA/LatAm Payroll Lead and crossfunctional teams to ensure employee master data (new hires, terminations, compensation changes, and other updates) is accurately and timely reflected ...

Payroll Team Lead Summary Title: Payroll Team Lead ID: 1317 Location: Napa, CA Department: Client Services More about this job > Description The JOB We are looking for a Lead Payroll Processor to ...

The JOB We are looking for a Lead Payroll Processor to oversee our payroll team and ensure our clients receive top-notch payroll services. This role is hands-on, fast-paced, and perfect for someone ...

Lead Payroll Specialist

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$68K - $75K/yr

This is a hands-on, working Lead role also supporting a team of payroll/timekeeping personnel. Location: Onsite - Austin, TX Compensation: $68,000-$75,000 annually, with potential bonus eligibility ...

New

The Payroll Operations Lead is responsible for leading and executing all aspects of enterprise payroll operations across a complex, multi-entity environment. This role ensures payroll is processed ...

Payroll Team Lead

New York, NY ยท Remote

$120K - $135K/yr

Payroll Tech Lead Location: New York, NY (Remote) Salary: $120K - $135k + Bonus Successful professional services firm seeks a new Workday experienced Payroll Professional to join their team.

Payroll Team Lead

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

We are looking for an experienced Payroll Team Lead to oversee accurate, timely payroll operations for a large employee population in Indianapolis, Indiana. This role will guide day-to-day payroll ...

The Washington Post is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Payroll Lead to lead and modernize U.S. payroll operations. This is not a "business as usual" payroll role - it's an opportunity to ...

Payroll Team Lead

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$79K - $98K/yr

ABOUT THIS ROLE PEAK6 Payroll Team Lead As Lead Payroll at PEAK6, you will be the functional expert and operational cornerstone of the payroll team - owning end-to-end multi-state payroll processing ...

The Washington Post is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Payroll Lead to lead and modernize U.S. payroll operations. This is not a "business as usual" payroll role - it's an opportunity to ...

Payroll Team Lead

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$79K - $98K/yr

ABOUT THIS ROLE PEAK6 Payroll Team Lead As Lead Payroll at PEAK6, you will be the functional expert and operational cornerstone of the payroll team - owning end-to-end multi-state payroll processing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

Payroll Lead information

See salary details

$40K

$100.5K

$207K

How much do payroll lead jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll lead in the United States is $100,510.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $114,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a payroll lead do?

A payroll lead oversees the payroll process, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time. They manage payroll data, coordinate with HR and finance, and ensure compliance with tax laws and company policies, often using payroll software. Strong attention to detail and knowledge of payroll regulations are essential for this role.

What are the 4 types of payroll systems?

Payroll leads need to understand the four main types of payroll systems: manual, outsourced, payroll software, and integrated HR/payroll systems. Manual systems involve paper records and calculations, while outsourced systems delegate payroll processing to third-party providers. Payroll software automates calculations and record-keeping, and integrated systems combine payroll with other HR functions for efficiency.

Is payroll a stressful job?

Payroll leads are responsible for ensuring accurate and timely processing of employee compensation, which can involve tight deadlines and complex calculations. The role can be stressful during peak periods such as payroll deadlines or audits, but effective organization and familiarity with payroll software can help manage workload and reduce stress.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Payroll Lead, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Payroll Lead, you need a solid understanding of payroll processes, tax regulations, and compliance requirements, often supported by a degree in accounting or a related field. Familiarity with payroll software systems like ADP, SAP, or Workday, and certifications such as the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and leadership skills help manage teams and resolve payroll discrepancies effectively. These competencies ensure accurate, timely payroll processing and compliance, which are critical for employee satisfaction and organizational integrity.

What are Payroll Leads?

Payroll Leads are professionals responsible for overseeing a company's payroll operations, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time. They manage payroll staff, handle complex payroll issues, and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Payroll Leads also collaborate with HR and finance departments to implement payroll policies and improve processes, often serving as the main point of contact for payroll-related inquiries.

How does a Payroll Lead typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

A Payroll Lead regularly coordinates with Human Resources, Finance, and IT departments to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing. They work closely with HR to verify employee data, benefits, and timekeeping records, and with Finance to reconcile payroll expenses and prepare reports. Additionally, they may collaborate with IT to troubleshoot payroll software issues or implement system upgrades. Effective communication and collaboration are essential to resolve discrepancies and maintain compliance with regulations.

What is the highest paying job in payroll?

The highest paying roles in payroll are often senior positions such as Payroll Director or Payroll Manager, especially in large organizations. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of payroll systems and compliance, with salaries reaching six figures in many cases.

What is the difference between Payroll Lead vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll LeadPayroll Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires payroll certifications (e.g., CPP, FPC) and experience in team leadershipUsually requires payroll or accounting certifications and relevant experience
Work EnvironmentLeads payroll teams, oversees payroll processes, and ensures compliancePerforms payroll processing, data entry, and reporting tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in larger organizations with payroll teamsCommon in organizations of all sizes for payroll processing
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for leadership roles in payrollCompared for operational payroll roles

The Payroll Lead typically oversees payroll teams, manages payroll processes, and ensures compliance, requiring leadership skills and certifications. In contrast, the Payroll Specialist focuses on executing payroll tasks, data management, and reporting. Both roles are essential in payroll operations but differ mainly in responsibility level and scope.

More about Payroll Lead jobs
What cities are hiring for Payroll Lead jobs? Cities with the most Payroll Lead job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Payroll Lead jobs? The top employers for Payroll Lead jobs are:
What states have the most Payroll Lead jobs? States with the most job openings for Payroll Lead jobs include:
Infographic showing various Payroll Lead job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,510 per year, or $48.3 per hour.
Payroll Analyst

Payroll Analyst

Altera

San Jose, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted yesterday


Job description

Job Details:Job Description:

Join Altera as a Payroll Analyst! Under the direction of management, the NA/LatAm Payroll Analyst is responsible for ensuring that accurate payrolls are processed for all employees in a timely and efficient manner. This position will oversee payroll processing by NA/LatAm Payroll Lead, provide customer service to internal and external customers, and ensure compliance with applicable federal and state laws, assist with Workday and Global Payroll Vendor PayrollAdvantage implementation and integration projects as needed.

Americas Payroll Analyst Duties and Responsibilities

Payroll Review:

  • Collaborate with NA/LatAm Payroll Lead and crossfunctional teams to ensure employee master data (new hires, terminations, compensation changes, and other updates) is accurately and timely reflected in all payroll systems.

  • Manage the daily operations of the payroll department, including review and approval of biweekly, semimonthly, and offcycle payrolls prepared by NA/LatAm Payroll Lead for:

    • Two U.S. legal entities supporting approximately 1,000 employees across 30 states.

    • Two global entities supporting approximately 220 employees in Canada (2000 and Mexico (20).

    • Audit and verify all payroll inputs, including timekeeping data, salary adjustments, benefit deductions, and all integrations feeding into Workday and global payroll platforms, ensuring accuracy and compliance prior to payroll processing.

    • Ensure all payrolls are processed timely and accurately in accordance with federal, provincial, state, and local regulations.

System Maintenance and Periodic Audits:

  • Maintain payroll systems, including employee data updates, payroll configuration, and electronic timekeeping records.

  • Audit and reconcile payroll data across all systems on a periodic basis.

  • Serve as a liaison with thirdparty partners including HR, Legal, Finance/Accounting (Treasury), tax filing services, 401(k) and benefits providers, commissions, expense reporting, and equity administrators to ensure timely, accurate, and compliant transactions.

Compliance:

  • Monitor and manage thirdparty global payroll vendors and tax filing services; communicate and implement tax and regulatory updates, ensure systems remain current, and resolve agency notices comprehensively.

  • Reconcile monthly payroll tax filings against payroll registers, agency submissions, and company bank account statements, make necessary adjustments and corrections as needed.

  • Ensure 401(k) and HSA contributions are accurately transmitted; reconcile employee and employer contributions, audit contribution rates monthly, and monitor yeartodate limits for compliance.

  • Ensure compliance with payrollrelated requirements including wage garnishments, taxes, and other statutory deductions.

  • Manage Year End tasks, including W-2 processing, annual tax filings, collaboration with payroll vendor on T-4 administration.

Cross Functional Collaboration:

  • Provide guidance and information on payroll systems and processes; escalate highlevel and serviceimpacting issues to the Global Payroll Manager as appropriate.

  • Train, supervise, and develop payroll staff; ensure team organization, adherence to deadlines, and crosstraining to support coverage during absences and ensure business continuity.

  • Support employee and stakeholder inquiries by providing accurate information and timely assistance.

  • Serve as support for Payroll Lead as needed.

  • Maintain strict confidentiality of all employees and payroll information.

Salary Range

The pay range below is for Bay Area California only. Actual salary may vary based ona number offactors including job location, job-related knowledge, skills, experiences,trainings, etc. We also offer incentive opportunities that reward employees based on individual and company performance.

$145-150KUSD

We use artificial intelligence to screen, assess, or select applicants for the position.Applicants must be eligible for any required U.S. export authorizations.

Qualifications:
  • 7 + years of progressive payroll experience, supporting multistate and/or multicountry payroll operations.

  • Demonstrated experience managing payroll for midtolarge employee populations (500+ employees) across multiple legal entities.

  • Strong working knowledge of U.S. payroll regulations, including federal, state, and local tax laws, wage and hour requirements, and garnishments; Canada and/or Mexico payroll exposure strongly preferred.

  • Proven experience working with global payroll vendors and coordinating crossborder payroll processes.

  • Advanced proficiency in Workday Payroll and Workday HCM, including integrations, downstream payroll feeds, reporting, and data audits.

  • Handson experience with thirdparty payroll providers and tax filing services (e.g., PayrollAdvantage or similar platforms).

  • Expertise in payroll reconciliation, payroll tax filings via ADP SmartCopmliance..

  • Demonstrated experience administering and auditing 401(k), HSA, FSA, and benefitrelated payroll deductions, including regulatory limits and yeartodate compliance.

  • Strong analytical, problemsolving, and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to identify root causes and implement scalable solutions.

  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (e.g., pivot tables, lookup functions, data analysis); strong overall proficiency in Microsoft Office tools.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex payroll information to employees, leadership, and external partners.

  • Proven ability to manage competing priorities, meet strict deadlines, and operate effectively in a fastpaced, deadlinedriven environment.

  • Demonstrated ability to handle highly confidential and sensitive information with discretion and integrity.

  • Experience supporting payroll system implementations, integrations, or process optimization initiatives is highly preferred.

  • Professional payroll certifications such as CPP (Certified Payroll Professional), PCP (Canada), or CPM are preferred.

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field; equivalent practical experience may be considered.

Job Type: RegularShift:Shift 1 (United States of America)Primary Location:San Jose, California, United StatesAdditional Locations:Posting Statement:All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance.