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Payroll Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Care Initiatives

Benefits & Payroll Manager

Knoxville, IA · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Benefits & Payroll Manager Schedule/Shifts Available: Full-Time Make a Difference Every Day - Join Care Initiatives as a vital part of our administrative team! Join our compassionate care team across ...

Iowa

Total Rewards & Payroll Manager

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

The Total Rewards and Payroll Manager is responsible for the administration, compliance, and operational management of the organization's total rewards programs, including benefits, retirement plans ...

Care Initiatives

Benefits & Payroll Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

Benefits & Payroll Manager Schedule/Shifts Available: Full-Time Days Make a Difference Every Day - Join Care Initiatives as a vital part of our administrative team! Join our compassionate care team ...

ADP

Payroll Consultant

Rowan, IA · On-site

Payroll Manager Department: Services ADP is hiring Payroll Consultant * Are you all about the follow up and follow through that helps you and your clients achieve serious results? (Now that's what we ...

Croell, Inc.

Payroll Specialist_On Site

New Hampton, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

This is a full-time position that reports to the Payroll Manager and has no supervisory responsibility. For more information regarding this position, contact Candace at 641-229-8107 or Kelby/Kylie at ...

Dubuque County

Deputy Auditor - Payroll

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Description The Deputy Auditor - Payroll is responsible for establishing, managing, directing, maintaining and processing all phases of the Dubuque County payroll, timely and accurately, including ...

Dubuque County, IA

Deputy Auditor - Payroll

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

CB Description The Deputy Auditor - Payroll is responsible for establishing, managing, directing, maintaining and processing all phases of the Dubuque County payroll, timely and accurately, including ...

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Payroll Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$39.4K

$84K

$124.9K

How much do payroll manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll manager in Iowa is $83,967.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,700.00 and $97,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a payroll manager?

A payroll manager works in the payroll or HR department of a business or organization and manages the payroll process for all employees and contractors. Payroll managers are responsible for ensuring that all employees are paid on time, in the correct amounts, and for issuing pay stubs. They are also responsible for compiling payroll information and managing the pre-payroll preparation process. Additionally, payroll managers complete records for earnings, taxes, deductions, leave, benefits and disability, and maintain records for the organization and tax reporting. Payroll managers may also oversee recruiting, hiring, training and evaluating of payroll department staff members.

What does a payroll manager do?

A Payroll Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing an organization's payroll functions. This includes ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time, maintaining payroll records, and complying with relevant tax laws and regulations. Payroll Managers also handle payroll reporting, resolve payroll discrepancies, and may supervise payroll staff. Their role is crucial in maintaining employee satisfaction and legal compliance within a company.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Manager, you need strong knowledge of payroll regulations, tax laws, and accounting principles, often backed by a degree in finance or accounting and relevant experience. Familiarity with payroll software (such as ADP or Paychex), HR information systems, and professional certifications like CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) are typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help Payroll Managers stand out. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring accurate payroll processing, regulatory compliance, and effective team leadership.

How does a payroll manager typically collaborate with other departments to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing?

Payroll Managers regularly coordinate with Human Resources and Finance teams to gather accurate employee data, such as new hires, terminations, benefit deductions, and salary changes. They also work closely with IT to ensure payroll systems are functioning correctly and with compliance teams to meet legal and tax requirements. Effective communication and collaboration are essential for resolving discrepancies quickly and maintaining seamless payroll cycles. This cross-departmental interaction offers Payroll Managers a comprehensive view of organizational operations and strengthens their problem-solving skills.

What is the difference between Payroll Manager vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll ManagerPayroll Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field; certifications like CPP or FPC are commonSimilar credentials; often holds CPP or FPC certifications, with less emphasis on management experience
Work EnvironmentOversees payroll departments, manages teams, and collaborates with HR and financePerforms payroll processing, data entry, and compliance tasks primarily independently or in small teams
Employer & Industry UsageFound in mid to large organizations across various industriesCommon in organizations of all sizes, especially in HR or finance departments

The main difference between a Payroll Manager and a Payroll Specialist lies in their responsibilities and scope. Payroll Managers oversee payroll operations, manage teams, and ensure compliance at a strategic level, while Payroll Specialists focus on processing payroll data accurately and efficiently. Both roles require similar credentials, but the Payroll Manager's role involves more leadership and oversight.

Is a payroll manager a hard job?

A payroll manager's job involves overseeing payroll processing, ensuring accuracy, compliance with tax laws, and managing payroll systems, which requires attention to detail and knowledge of relevant regulations. The role can be demanding during peak periods such as month-end or year-end, and it often requires strong organizational and communication skills. Certification and experience with payroll software are beneficial for managing the workload effectively.

What do payroll managers earn?

Payroll managers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, location, and company size. They are responsible for overseeing payroll processing, ensuring compliance with regulations, and often use payroll software or systems to manage employee compensation accurately.
More about Payroll Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Payroll Manager jobs in Iowa?

For Payroll Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Payroll Manager jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Payroll Manager jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Payroll Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Payroll Manager job openings:

Payroll Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $83,967 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

Regional Payroll Manager - Midwest

Loenbro

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Regional Payroll Manager
Company: Loenbro, LLC
Business Unit/Department:
Location: Cedar Rapids, IA / On-Site
Reports to: Regional Accounting Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time
FLSA Classification: Exempt
About Loenbro
Loenbro is a trusted, long-term construction lifecycle partner to thousands of customers across the U.S. Our market spans all industries and our service offerings include Critical Electrical, Mechanical & Structural, Soft Crafts, Inspection, Underground Maintenance and Installation, and Fabrication. Our expertise lies in simplifying the complex and establishing long-standing relationships with our partners. We have a national presence but a local approach-every customer benefits from our capabilities and our care.
At Loenbro, we don't just offer jobs-we build careers grounded in integrity, teamwork, excellence, and purpose. Join a team where your expertise is valued, your growth is supported, and your work helps maintain and enhance the critical infrastructure that powers communities across the nation.
Job SummaryThe Payroll Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of payroll operations across a multi-state, project-based workforce. This role ensures accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing for both hourly craft employees and salaried staff, including complex pay structures, and certified payroll requirements. The Payroll Manager leads a team, partners cross-functionally with HR, Finance, and Operations, and drives continuous improvement in payroll systems, processes, and controls. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of payroll regulations, strong leadership capabilities, and experience in construction or industrial services environments.
Essential Job Responsibilities
  • Oversee end-to-end payroll processing for a multi-state workforce, including hourly, salaried, and field employees, In collaboration with corporate payroll team.
  • Manage and develop a team of regional timekeepers and payroll specialists; establish performance expectations and ensure accountability
  • Ensure payroll is processed accurately and on time, including wages, overtime, bonuses, per diems, and deductions
  • Oversee certified payroll set-up, reporting and compliance for government-funded or prevailing wage projects
  • Ensure proper handling of certified payrolls, including dues, fringes, and reporting (if applicable)
  • Partner with HR and Operations to ensure accurate employee data, timekeeping, and job coding
  • Review and approve payroll registers, tax filings, and reconciliations
  • Manage payroll-related audits and ensure audit readiness (internal, external, and government audits)
  • Collaborate with Accounting on payroll-related journal entries, accruals, and month-end close processes
  • Drive process improvements, automation, and system enhancements to increase efficiency and accuracy
  • Analyze payroll metrics and trends (e.g., overtime, labor costs, error rates) and provide insights to leadership
  • Ensure proper documentation and internal controls are maintained across all payroll processes

Minimum Qualifications
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 5+ years of progressive payroll experience, including multi-state payroll processing
  • 2+ years of experience leading or supervising a payroll team
  • Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll regulations and tax requirements
  • Experience with payroll systems (e.g., Viewpoint, ADP, UKG, Workday, or similar)
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data analysis)
  • High attention to detail and ability to manage high-volume, deadline-driven work
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to handle sensitive, confidential information
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

Preferred:
  • Experience in construction, industrial services, or project-based industries
  • Familiarity with certified payroll and prevailing wage requirements (e.g., Davis-Bacon Act)
  • Experience with union payrolls and multi-rate pay structures
  • Knowledge of job costing and labor allocations across projects
  • Experience with process improvement, system implementations, or payroll automation initiatives
  • Experience supporting a multi-entity or rapidly growing organization

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work Environment:
This role requires compliance with all applicable safety regulations, personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, and Loenbro's Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) policies.
Benefits
Loenbro offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and rewards to those who join our team:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Professional development and training opportunities
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)

Benefits eligibility may vary based on employment classification and hours worked.
Guided by Core Values (LEAD), grounded in grit and a commitment to excellence, Loenbro betters our families, customers, and local communities. If you're ready to be part of a company that LEADS by:
  • Living with Integrity
  • Exceeding Expectations
  • Acting with Urgency
  • Delivering Excellence

...we want to hear from you.
Loenbro is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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