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Payroll Operations Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dabella

Payroll Operations Manager

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

Mon-Fri, 8am - 5pm DaBella is seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to lead payroll operations ... Analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail.

Chainguard

Payroll Analyst, Global Payroll

$106K - $125K/yr

As we continue to expand globally, we're looking for a Payroll Analyst, Global Payroll to own and execute accurate, compliant, and scalable payroll operations. Reporting to the Controller, you'll ...

Quadrant

Payroll Operations Manager

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$135K/yr

Payroll Operations Manager Herndon, VA (Hybrid) Pay From: $135,000 per year MUST: Experienced ... Highly analytical with strong problem solving skills Ability to work well with tight deadlines ...

Archgroup

AVP, Payroll Operations

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

... and analyze payroll KPIs and operational metrics to drive performance, transparency, and continuous improvement Drive process standardization, scalability, and control enhancements to strengthen ...

Archgroup

AVP, Payroll Operations

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

... and analyze payroll KPIs and operational metrics to drive performance, transparency, and continuous improvement Drive process standardization, scalability, and control enhancements to strengthen ...

Bath & Body Works

Payroll Operations Manager

Columbus, OH · On-site

$95K - $140K/yr

... variance analysis for payroll operations. • Identify and implement best practices in payroll governance and compliance while ensuring compliance with federal, state and local payroll tax ...

Arch Capital Group

AVP, Payroll Operations

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... analyze payroll KPIs and operational metrics to drive performance, transparency, and continuous improvement • Drive process standardization, scalability, and control enhancements to strengthen ...

BankUnited

Payroll Analyst

Miami Lakes, FL · On-site

Partners with Human Resources, Finance, and management to ensure efficient payroll operations and ... analysis. * Ability to identify payroll tax issues and partner effectively with payroll tax ...

New York Life

Manager, Payroll Operations

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$81K - $104K/yr

Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail ... payroll operations. * Knowledge of payroll controls, audit practices, and continuous process ...

Clarity Recruiting

Sr. Payroll Analyst

New York, NY · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Payroll Analyst to support complex payroll operations across North America and international markets for our financial services client. This role will play a critical part in ...

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Payroll Operations Analyst information

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$34

$53

How much do payroll operations analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll operations analyst in the United States is $34.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.68 and $37.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a payroll operations analyst do?

A Payroll Operations Analyst is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely processing of employee payroll. They analyze payroll data, resolve discrepancies, and maintain compliance with all relevant laws and company policies. Their duties often include auditing payroll reports, implementing process improvements, and collaborating with HR and finance departments. This role requires strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and a solid understanding of payroll systems and regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a payroll operations analyst?

To thrive as a Payroll Operations Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of payroll regulations, typically supported by a degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Proficiency in payroll software (such as ADP or Workday), Excel, and possibly a Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification are commonly required. Excellent organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication help ensure accuracy and effective collaboration with HR and finance teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring timely and compliant payroll processing, minimizing errors, and supporting overall organizational efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced by payroll operations analysts, and how are they typically addressed?

Payroll Operations Analysts often encounter challenges such as managing complex payroll regulations, ensuring data accuracy, and meeting tight deadlines during payroll cycles. These challenges are typically addressed through robust process documentation, frequent collaboration with HR and finance teams, and continuous training on compliance requirements. Leveraging payroll software and automation tools also helps minimize errors and streamline workflows, allowing analysts to focus on resolving discrepancies and improving overall efficiency.

What is the difference between Payroll Operations Analyst vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll Operations AnalystPayroll Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or related field; certifications like CPP or FPC are commonOften requires similar credentials; certifications like CPP or FPC are also valued
Work EnvironmentWorks in finance or HR departments, analyzing payroll processes, ensuring compliance, and optimizing workflowsHandles payroll processing, data entry, and employee inquiries, often in HR or payroll departments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries in finance, HR, and payroll departments for process improvementCommonly employed in organizations with dedicated payroll teams for processing employee payments

The Payroll Operations Analyst focuses on analyzing and improving payroll processes, ensuring compliance, and supporting payroll systems. In contrast, the Payroll Specialist primarily handles payroll processing, data management, and employee inquiries. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to payroll functions, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Is a payroll operations analyst a stressful job?

A payroll operations analyst role can be stressful due to strict deadlines, the need for accuracy, and handling sensitive employee data. The job often requires attention to detail, proficiency with payroll software, and managing compliance with regulations, which can contribute to work pressure during busy periods or audits.
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What job categories do people searching Payroll Operations Analyst jobs look for?

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Payroll Operations Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Operations Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,803 per year, or $34 per hour.

Director, Payroll Operations

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Vanderbilt University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 619 rated colleges and universities

Job description


The Director of Payroll Operations provides strategic, operational, and transformational leadership grounded in Vanderbilt's mission and vision. The Director ensures accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing while modernizing operations through automation, advanced analytics, process redesign, and the effective use of Oracle Cloud HCM and other enabling technologies.
The Director serves as the institution's primary subject matter expert on payroll compliance, employment tax, and other payroll-related operational risks. This leader establishes a continuous improvement discipline that reduces manual work, strengthens controls, improves data integrity, and creates a more efficient and responsive colleague experience.
The role requires a service-centered mindset and the ability to radically collaborate across People, Culture and Belonging, Finance, VUIT, and institutional business units to achieve shared goals. The Director will develop and execute a multiyear payroll modernization roadmap that advances payroll from a largely transactional function to a technology-enabled, data-informed, and scalable operation.
KeyFunctionsandExpectedPerformance:
Payroll Operations Management
  • Provide leadership and oversight of all daily payroll operations, ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing
  • Supervise payroll staff, establish priorities, assign work, and monitor performance
  • Supervise the international tax team and oversee all 1042-S international tax reporting
  • Ensure payroll processing complies with institutional policies, collective bargaining agreements, federal and state regulations, and tax requirements
  • Review and approve payroll transactions, adjustments, off-cycle payrolls, and special payments
  • Oversee payroll reconciliations, payroll tax reporting, deductions, garnishments, retirement contributions, and month-end processing
  • Oversee quarterly payroll tax filings at both the federal and state levels
  • Maintain appropriate internal controls to safeguard payroll data and institutional assets
  • Serve as the primary resource for resolving complex payroll issues and escalated employee concerns

Payroll Transformation and Operational Excellence
  • Develop and execute a multiyear payroll modernization roadmap aligned with Vanderbilt's mission, growth and operational priorities.
  • Assess and redesign payroll workflows, procedures, and controls to improve accuracy, consistency, efficiency, and service.
  • Optimize Oracle Cloud HCM and other enabling technologies to automate processes, reduce manual intervention, strengthen data integrity, and improve employee self-service.
  • Establish a continuous improvement discipline using process mapping, root-cause analysis, performance data, and clear operational measures.
  • Lead system enhancements, testing, and adoption while maintaining strong internal controls, segregation of duties, documentation, and regulatory compliance.

Compliance and Risk Management
  • Ensure compliance with federal and state wage and hour laws, tax regulations, retirement reporting requirements, and higher education-specific payroll regulations.
  • Monitor legislative and regulatory changes affecting payroll operations and implement required updates.
  • Coordinate internal and external payroll audits and respond to audit requests.
  • Strengthen internal controls and ensure appropriate segregation of duties throughout payroll processes.

Systems and Collaboration
  • Partner with VUIT Oracle team to optimize payroll system functionality
  • Collaborate with Finance to ensure accurate payroll accounting, reconciliations, and financial reporting
  • Participate in system upgrades, testing, implementations, and process enhancements
  • Build strong collaborative relationships across departments to improve service delivery and communication

Leadership and Staff Development
  • Provide coaching, mentoring, and guidance to payroll staff
  • Foster a collaborative, customer-focused, and continuous improvement culture
  • Identify training needs and support professional development opportunities
  • Manage departmental priorities and allocate resources to meet institutional deadlines

SupervisoryRelationships:
This position has direct supervisory responsibility over the Assistant Director of Payroll, and a total team size of five payroll and international tax professionals.
EducationandCertifications:
  • A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education is required.
  • Advanced degree (MBA or Master's degree esp. in a related field) is preferred.
  • Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation is preferred.

ExperienceandSkills:
  • Eight or more years of progressively responsible payroll experience in a large, complex organization of 3,000 or more employees, including multi-state payroll tax compliance.
  • Experience with nonresident foreign national taxation, U.S. tax treaties, and international tax compliance systems.
  • Deep expertise with enterprise HR and payroll platforms, such as Oracle Cloud HCM, Workday, PeopleSoft, or SAP.
  • Demonstrated experience leading payroll automation, process optimization, or technology-enabled transformation.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and develop payroll and tax professionals.
  • Proficiency in payroll analytics and experience applying AI-enabled tools to improve efficiency, controls, and decision-making.
  • Experience with workflow automation or process optimization applied to payroll or HR operations.
  • Adaptability, sound judgment, and unquestioned integrity.

About Us
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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