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Payroll Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arch Capital Group

AVP, Payroll Operations

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The Assistant Vice President (AVP), Payroll Operations is a senior payroll leader responsible for the execution of North America payroll operations, ensuring accurate, compliant, and scalable payroll ...

Patrick Industries

Payroll Operations Lead

Elkhart, IN · On-site

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 ...

Patrick Industries

Payroll Operations Lead

Elkhart, IN · On-site

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 ...

Archgroup

AVP, Payroll Operations

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

The Assistant Vice President (AVP), Payroll Operations is a senior payroll leader responsible for the execution of North America payroll operations, ensuring accurate, compliant, and scalable payroll ...

Archgroup

AVP, Payroll Operations

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

The Assistant Vice President (AVP), Payroll Operations is a senior payroll leader responsible for the execution of North America payroll operations, ensuring accurate, compliant, and scalable payroll ...

Via

Payroll Operations Manager

New York, NY

$90K - $120K/yr

As Via's Payroll Operations Manager , you will manage the full payroll function for Via's growing workforce across the United States, including both corporate employees and frontline operations ...

Via

Payroll Operations Manager

New York, NY · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

As Via's Payroll Operations Manager , you will manage the full payroll function for Via's growing workforce across the United States, including both corporate employees and frontline operations ...

AEG

Director Payroll Operations

San Antonio, TX · On-site

The Director of Payroll Operations is a strategic and operational leader responsible for overseeing complex multi-entity, semi-monthly payroll across all divisions of Spurs Sports & Entertainment.

Dabella

Payroll Operations Manager

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

Manage payroll operations within Workday, including earnings, deductions, commissions, bonuses, garnishments, PTO, and tax withholdings * Ensure payroll is processed accurately and on schedule while ...

DaBella

Payroll Operations Manager

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

Manage payroll operations within Workday, including earnings, deductions, commissions, bonuses, garnishments, PTO, and tax withholdings * Ensure payroll is processed accurately and on schedule while ...

McKinstry

Payroll Operations Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$89K - $151K/yr

The Opportunity with McKinstry We are looking for a Payroll Operations Manager to own the high-velocity execution of our weekly construction payroll. Reporting directly to the Director of Payroll ...

WSU -

Payroll Operations Supervisor

Dayton, OH

$60K/yr

Faculty Rank or Job Title Payroll Operations Supervisor Job Category: Administrative (exempt/non-exempt) Department Human Resources EEO number: 26P271 Position FTE 100% Minimum Annual Salary $60,640 ...

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Payroll Operations information

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$42K

$89.4K

$133K

How much do payroll operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll operations in the United States is $89,396.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common challenges faced in Payroll Operations, and how can new team members effectively handle them?

A common challenge in Payroll Operations is ensuring absolute accuracy and compliance with ever-changing tax regulations and company policies. New team members often need to quickly become proficient with specialized payroll software while managing tight deadlines, especially during pay cycles. To handle these challenges effectively, it’s important to regularly communicate with HR and finance departments, stay updated on legal requirements, and develop strong attention to detail. Many organizations provide ongoing training and encourage collaboration, which helps new hires build confidence and perform efficiently.

What is the highest paying job in payroll?

The highest paying roles in payroll typically include Payroll Director or Payroll Manager positions, which oversee payroll operations and strategy. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and certifications such as CPP (Certified Payroll Professional), and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the organization and location.

What qualifications do I need for payroll?

Payroll operations professionals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many roles preferring or requiring a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or business. Strong attention to detail, proficiency with payroll software and spreadsheets, and knowledge of payroll laws and tax regulations are essential qualifications for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Payroll Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Payroll Operations, you need a strong grasp of payroll processes, tax regulations, and compliance standards, usually backed by experience in finance or accounting. Familiarity with payroll software like ADP, SAP, or Workday, and certifications such as Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) are commonly expected. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with employees and management set top performers apart. These skills are essential for ensuring accurate, timely payroll processing and maintaining compliance with legal requirements.

What is Payroll Operations?

Payroll Operations refers to the processes and systems involved in managing employee compensation within an organization. This includes calculating wages, withholding taxes, distributing paychecks, and maintaining payroll records. Payroll Operations also ensure compliance with legal regulations and company policies regarding employee pay. The goal is to ensure employees are paid accurately and on time while adhering to all relevant laws and guidelines.

What are the 4 types of payroll systems?

Payroll operations professionals typically work with four main types of payroll systems: manual, outsourced, payroll software, and integrated HR/payroll systems. Manual systems involve paper records, while outsourced systems delegate payroll processing to third-party providers. Payroll software systems use specialized programs for automation, and integrated systems combine payroll with other HR functions for efficiency.

Does payroll get paid a lot?

Payroll operations professionals typically earn moderate salaries that vary based on experience, location, and company size. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced payroll managers or specialists with certifications can earn higher wages. Overall, payroll is considered a stable career with competitive pay in the finance and HR sectors.

What is the difference between Payroll Operations vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll OperationsPayroll Specialist
Primary FocusOversees end-to-end payroll processes, including system management and complianceProcesses payroll, verifies data, and ensures accurate employee payments
Required CredentialsKnowledge of payroll systems, HRIS, and compliance regulationsSimilar credentials, often with payroll certification or related training
Work EnvironmentTypically in HR or payroll departments, handling multiple payroll functionsIn HR or payroll teams, focusing on data entry and payroll processing

Payroll Operations roles generally involve managing the entire payroll process and systems, while Payroll Specialists focus on executing payroll tasks. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but Payroll Operations has a broader scope and strategic responsibilities.

More about Payroll Operations jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll Operations jobs? The most popular types of Payroll Operations jobs are:
What states have the most Payroll Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Payroll Operations jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Payroll Operations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Payroll Operations jobs are:
Payroll Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Operations job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 7% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,396 per year, or $43 per hour.
Director, Payroll Operations

Director, Payroll Operations

Employer Flexible

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Why This Role Matters

Payroll is one of the most critical services we deliver to our clients and their employees. As Director of Payroll Operations, you will lead the team responsible for ensuring thousands of employees are paid accurately, on time, and in compliance across multiple states.

This role oversees Payroll Managers and payroll teams operating across multiple offices and markets. Because these teams do not all sit in the same location, this leader must create strong operational alignment, clear processes, and consistent service delivery across a distributed organization. Your leadership will help unify payroll operations, strengthen collaboration across offices, and build a scalable payroll function that supports the company’s continued growth.

Position Summary

The Director of Payroll Operations provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the company’s payroll function across multiple markets. This role leads Payroll Managers and their teams responsible for delivering payroll services for a diverse client base within a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) environment.

The Director will focus on operational excellence, payroll accuracy, compliance, and team leadership while driving continuous improvement across payroll systems, processes, and service delivery. This role partners closely with client service teams, HR consulting, benefits operations, accounting, and implementation teams to ensure a seamless payroll experience for clients and their employees.

The ideal candidate is a strong operational leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, can lead distributed teams across multiple locations, and understands the complexity of multi-client payroll operations.

Key ResponsibilitiesPayroll Operations Leadership
  • Provide leadership and oversight of payroll operations across multiple markets and offices.
  • Lead Payroll Managers responsible for day-to-day payroll execution and team performance.
  • Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing across multiple pay schedules including weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, and monthly payrolls.
  • Establish operational standards, controls, and best practices to ensure consistency across payroll teams.
  • Monitor payroll performance metrics and implement improvements that strengthen accuracy and operational efficiency.
Team Leadership and Development
  • Lead, coach, and develop Payroll Managers and their teams of payroll specialists.
  • Build a high-performing payroll organization capable of supporting company growth.
  • Establish clear expectations for accountability, collaboration, and service excellence.
  • Promote consistent communication and coordination across teams located in multiple offices and states.
Client Experience and Service Delivery
  • Partner closely with Client Success, HR Consulting, and Implementation teams to ensure seamless payroll delivery.
  • Serve as the escalation point for complex payroll issues and client concerns.
  • Support client retention by ensuring payroll challenges are resolved quickly and effectively.
  • Promote proactive communication and service standards that strengthen client relationships.
Compliance and Risk Management
  • Ensure payroll operations comply with all federal, state, and local wage and tax regulations.
  • Maintain strong internal controls around payroll processing, funding verification, and ACH activity.
  • Partner with accounting and finance teams to ensure accurate reporting and reconciliation.
  • Support internal audits and regulatory compliance initiatives.
Systems and Process Improvement
  • Support adoption and effective use of payroll and CRM systems across payroll teams.
  • Identify opportunities to improve payroll workflows, documentation, and operational efficiency.
  • Partner with internal teams to resolve system issues and support technology enhancements.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance payroll accuracy, efficiency, and client experience.
Qualifications
  • 8+ years of payroll experience, preferably within a PEO, multi-client payroll environment, or high-volume payroll operation
  • 3+ years of leadership experience managing managers or large operational teams
  • Strong knowledge of payroll regulations, wage and hour laws, and payroll tax fundamentals
  • Experience leading teams across multiple offices or locations
  • Proven ability to operate in a fast-paced operational environment
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
  • Excellent communication and leadership abilities
Preferred Qualifications
  • Professional Employer Organization (PEO) experience
  • Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification
  • Experience with payroll system implementations or migrations
  • Experience leading operational process improvement initiatives
Systems and Tools
  • Microsoft Dynamics CRM
  • myHR payroll platform (myHR 1.0 / myHR 2.0)
  • Microsoft Office Suite
Our Culture

We operate in a fast-paced, collaborative environment focused on delivering exceptional service to our clients and their employees. Our leaders embody our core values:

  • Have Fun
  • Be Selective
  • Be Humble
  • No Surprises
  • Want It