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Payroll Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

3 Bridge Networks

Payroll Manager

Mundelein, IL · On-site

We are working with a growing organization seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to take ownership of payroll operations for a workforce of 500+ employees. This is a hands-on leadership role for ...

Cooley

Payroll Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Payroll Manager Cooley is seeking a Payroll Manager to join the Accounting and Finance Team. Position Summary : The Payroll Manager oversees the hands-on, day-to-day execution of the firm's entire ...

New

Habitat Health

Payroll Manager

Chicago, IL

The Payroll Manager is responsible for the end-to-end administration of the organization's payroll function, serving as the primary owner of all payroll processes. This role ensures accurate ...

Cooley LLP

Payroll Manager

Chicago, IL

Payroll Manager Cooley is seeking a Payroll Manager to join the Accounting and Finance Team. Position Summary : The Payroll Manager oversees the hands-on, day-to-day execution of the firm's entire ...

New

Hagerty Consulting

Payroll Manager

Evanston, IL

Payroll Manager Role and Responsibilities: * Collect and organize all underlying data necessary for the calculation and processing of payroll. * Complete initial payroll input and review to ensure ...

PLS

Payroll Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Manager of Payroll is responsible for overseeing and managing the Company's payroll operations and ensuring pay is processed on time and accurately. This role blends technical expertise ...

PLS

Payroll Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Manager of Payroll is responsible for overseeing and managing the Company's payroll operations and ensuring pay is processed on time and accurately. This role blends technical expertise ...

Cherry Bekaert

Payroll Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$91K - $146K/yr

As a Payroll Manager, you will: * Lead and oversee the end-to-end payroll process, ensuring timely, accurate, and compliant payroll delivery across the organization and its subsidiaries * Provide ...

Hagerty Consulting

Payroll Manager

Evanston, IL · On-site

Payroll Manager Role and Responsibilities: * Collect and organize all underlying data necessary for the calculation and processing of payroll. * Complete initial payroll input and review to ensure ...

Compass Group

Senior Payroll Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Manage payroll processing for large-scale hourly union & non-union employees. * Ensure payroll accuracy related to union contracts, including wages, overtime, premiums, differentials, benefits ...

Compass Group

Senior Payroll Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

Manage payroll processing for large-scale hourly union & non-union employees. * Ensure payroll accuracy related to union contracts, including wages, overtime, premiums, differentials, benefits ...

Compass Group

Senior Payroll Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

Manage payroll processing for large-scale hourly union & non-union employees. * Ensure payroll accuracy related to union contracts, including wages, overtime, premiums, differentials, benefits ...

Flagship Carwash

Payroll Lead

Oakbrook Terrace, IL · On-site

The Payroll Lead works closely with the Payroll Manager to support daily operations, maintain payroll controls, improve processes, and ensure a high level of service. The Payroll Lead also serves as ...

Spotless Brands

Payroll Lead

Oakbrook Terrace, IL · On-site

The Payroll Lead works closely with the Payroll Manager to support daily operations, maintain payroll controls, improve processes, and ensure a high level of service. The Payroll Lead also serves as ...

iManage

Global Payroll Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Being a Global Payroll Manager at iManage Means... You are responsible for leading and overseeing payroll operations across the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Spain, and Singapore ...

iManage

Global Payroll Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

Being a Global Payroll Manager at iManage Means... You are responsible for leading and overseeing payroll operations across the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Spain, and Singapore ...

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All JobsPayroll JobsPayroll Manager JobsPayroll Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Payroll Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$43.3K

$92.1K

$137K

How much do payroll manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll manager in Chicago, IL is $92,091.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,100.00 and $107,100.00 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Payroll Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Payroll Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Payroll Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Payroll Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Payroll Manager job openings:

Payroll Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 65% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,091 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Payroll Manager

3 Bridge Networks

Mundelein, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

We are working with a growing organization seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to take ownership of payroll operations for a workforce of 500+ employees.


This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys owning the payroll function, improving processes, and serving as the internal subject matter expert for all things payroll. You'll work closely with HR, Finance, Accounting, and employees across the organization to ensure payroll is accurate, timely, compliant, and scalable as the company continues to grow.


What You'll Own

You'll oversee the end-to-end payroll process for 500+ employees, including payroll processing, review, reconciliations, reporting, and issue resolution. You'll also be responsible for maintaining strong controls and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local payroll requirements.

Beyond running payroll, the company is looking for someone who can evaluate existing processes and identify ways to make the function more efficient. You'll partner closely with HR and Accounting on employee changes, benefits, compensation, payroll-related accounting, and month-end activities.


The Payroll Manager will also:

  • Manage recurring payroll cycles from preparation through final approval
  • Review payroll data for accuracy, including new hires, terminations, compensation changes, bonuses, deductions, and other employee changes
  • Manage payroll tax compliance and coordinate federal, state, and local filings
  • Oversee multi-state payroll requirements as applicable
  • Handle payroll reconciliations and support payroll-related general ledger activity
  • Partner with Accounting during month-end and year-end close
  • Manage year-end payroll activities, including W-2 preparation and reconciliation
  • Research and resolve payroll discrepancies and employee inquiries
  • Maintain payroll policies, procedures, documentation, and internal controls
  • Partner with HR on benefits, employee data, and HRIS/payroll system processes
  • Support payroll audits and other compliance requirements
  • Identify opportunities for automation and process improvement
  • Serve as the primary payroll resource for employees and internal leadership


What We're Looking For

We're looking for someone with 5+ years of progressive payroll experience, including experience managing payroll for a mid-sized or larger employee population. Prior experience supporting 500+ employees is strongly preferred.


The ideal candidate has strong knowledge of payroll regulations, taxes, wage and hour requirements, and multi-state payroll. You should be comfortable working independently, solving complex payroll issues, and taking ownership of the function from beginning to end.


Experience with major payroll/HRIS platforms such as ADP, UKG, Workday, Paycom, Paylocity, or similar systems is preferred. Advanced Excel skills and experience partnering with Accounting and HR teams are also highly valued.


A bachelor's degree is preferred, and CPP certification is a plus but not required.


Why This Opportunity

This is an opportunity to own a critical function within an established and growing organization. You'll have visibility across Finance and HR, the ability to improve how payroll operates, and the autonomy to make a meaningful impact on a payroll environment supporting more than 500 employees.

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