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Payroll Manager Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Manage the entire process around all required payroll tax withholdings (federal, state, local, etc.), ensuring a high level of accuracy with a focus on compliance. * Maintain the knowledge to manage ...

Manage the entire process around all required payroll tax withholdings (federal, state, local, etc.), ensuring a high level of accuracy with a focus on compliance. * Maintain the knowledge to manage ...

Payroll & Total Rewards Coordinator

Stoughton, WI · On-site

$21.75 - $29/hr

This role partners closely with the Total Rewards Manager to ensure data integrity across payroll, benefits, and compensation programs. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical capability ...

Payroll Specialist

Madison, WI · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

Responsibilities include managing and processing the accurate bi-weekly and monthly payrolls for all employees. CSM values their employees and strives to offer opportunities for professional growth.

Payroll Specialist

Madison, WI · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

Responsibilities include managing and processing the accurate bi-weekly and monthly payrolls for all employees. CSM values their employees and strives to offer opportunities for professional growth.

Manage payroll tax reporting and deductions. * Address employee inquiries related to payroll and benefits. * Collaborate with HR and finance teams to streamline payroll processes. * Assist with ...

Payroll Specialist

Stoughton, WI · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

Manage payroll-related onboarding/offboarding -- new hire setup, terminations, pay changes * Handle year-end payroll reporting, including W-2s and payroll tax filings * Administer employee benefits ...

Finance Specialist - Payroll

Madison, WI

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Manages payroll workload. Ensure payroll is processed in an accurate, compliant, and timely manner. * Act as administrator of payroll softoware including management of employee information.

Under the supervision of the Payroll Supervisor, this role is expected to be independently managing their client relationships, however, when needed, escalating issues or challenges for prompt ...

As a Senior Payroll Consultant within our Human Resources & Payroll Consulting team, you will ... Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a team-oriented environment

Under the supervision of the Payroll Supervisor, this role is expected to be independently managing their client relationships, however, when needed, escalating issues or challenges for prompt ...

Specialist, Payroll - Vantagen

Madison, WI

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Under the supervision of the Payroll Supervisor, this role is expected to be independently managing their client relationships, however, when needed, escalating issues or challenges for prompt ...

Specialist, Payroll - Vantagen

Madison, WI

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Under the supervision of the Payroll Supervisor, this role is expected to be independently managing their client relationships, however, when needed, escalating issues or challenges for prompt ...

Senior Payroll Specialist

Madison, WI · On-site

$29.50 - $40/hr

Minimum of 7 years of progressive payroll experience, including responsibility for multi-state payroll administration, payroll tax compliance, and payroll process management. Construction industry ...

Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Edgerton, WI · Hybrid

$47K - $61K/yr

Manage payroll and benefits activities related to employee onboarding, status changes, and ... terminations * Support year-end payroll activities, including W-2 preparation, audits, and ...

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Payroll Manager information

See Madison, WI salary details

$42.3K

$90.1K

$134K

How much do payroll manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll manager in Madison, WI is $90,078.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $104,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 often require knowledge of payroll software and compliance regulations, and salaries can increase with certifications such as CPP or FPC.

Are payroll managers in demand?

Payroll managers are in demand due to the ongoing need for accurate employee compensation processing and compliance with tax laws. They typically require knowledge of payroll software, regulations, and strong organizational skills, making them valuable in various industries. Employment growth for payroll managers is expected to be steady as organizations prioritize efficient payroll operations.

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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Madison, WI are:

What job categories do people searching Payroll Manager jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Payroll Manager jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Payroll Manager jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Payroll Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Manager job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,078 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Payroll Analyst (Hybrid)

Lands' End

Dodgeville, WI • Hybrid

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Lands' End rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 104 rated fashion retailers


Job description

*This is a hybrid role with three weeks per month onsite (Mon. – Thurs.). The fourth week is fully remote.
The primary purpose of this role is to serve as an accounting liaison for a variety of accounting functions including the preparation, processing, maintenance, verification and reconciliation of a bi-weekly, multi-state payroll for over 4,000 employees. This includes responsibility for coordinating and performing work processes that require a thorough, working knowledge of payroll and human resource information systems, accounting functions, payroll processes and government regulations pertaining to payroll and withholding taxes. In addition, this role is responsible for implementing process improvements, testing system changes and leading special projects within the payroll department.

Responsibilities

  • Manage the entire process around all required payroll tax withholdings (federal, state, local, etc.), ensuring a high level of accuracy with a focus on compliance.
  • Maintain the knowledge to manage unique multi state tax requirements, ensuring proper set up and maintenance of employee records.
  • Responsible for monthly journal entry preparation and account reconciliations for all payroll tax related accounts.
  • Reconcile quarterly payroll tax reports and resolve any discrepancies before tax filings are generated by UKG
  • Assist with wage garnishments
  • Assist with ACH reversals/returns, instant checks and treasury funding
  • Perform or support a variety of audits including 401k, Workers’ Comp, vendor audits/reviews, system audits and audits of internal procedures
  • Serve as a back-up to the Payroll Manager by assisting with bi-weekly payroll processing in a multi-state environment, off-cycle runs (bonus, stock, COLA), payroll adjustment entries, UKG system configuration, SOX compliance, audits and payroll year-end

Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience in Payroll processing in a large volume, multi-state environment
  • Demonstrated knowledge of multi state income tax requirements.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting or Business-related field
  • Knowledge of HR/Payroll and Time and Attendance software, preferably UKG
  • Demonstrate knowledge of multi-state and Federal Labor laws, pay practices and policies
  • Outstanding organizational and time management skills
  • Self-motivated with ability to manage multiple tasks and high-volume workload
  • Strong sense of urgency and results-orientation
  • Proficient use of Excel

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