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Payroll Operations Manager Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Manager

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Position Overview The Payroll Manager will direct and manage all aspects of in-house payroll operations for one business unit, ensuring the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of payroll for ...

Administer payroll operations using Paylocity and Unanet . * Ensure payroll is processed accurately ... Manage payroll audits and support internal and external audit requests. * Partner with HR regarding ...

Completes operational requirements by scheduling and assigning employees; following up on work ... Payroll Manager Skills and Qualifications: Managing Processes, People Management, Data Entry ...

Payroll Manager 16819279

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Competitive base salary + bonus potential + comprehensive benefits package Overview Cherry Bekaert Staffing & Recruiting is seeking a Payroll Manager to lead and oversee end-to-end payroll operations ...

Competitive base salary + bonus potential + comprehensive benefits package Overview Cherry Bekaert Staffing & Recruiting is seeking a Payroll Manager to lead and oversee end-to-end payroll operations ...

Payroll Specialist

Mclean, VA · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

ABOUT THE TEAM The Appian People Operations & Payroll Team is seeking a Payroll Specialist to ... Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple ...

Sr Payroll Specialist

Columbia, MD · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

We are seeking a Sr Payroll Specialist to join our Global HR Operations team, reporting to the Sr Manager, Global Payroll. This role is responsible for end-to-end U.S. payroll processing and support ...

Payroll Manager

Mclean, VA · On-site

$65K - $170K/yr

Payroll Director Direct Reports: 2 Payroll Supervisors Position Overview Clark Construction is seeking a high-caliber Payroll Manager to lead our complex, multi-state payroll operations. This role is ...

Payroll Manager

Mclean, VA · On-site

$65K - $170K/yr

Payroll Director Direct Reports: 2 Payroll Supervisors Position Overview Clark Construction is seeking a high-caliber Payroll Manager to lead our complex, multi-state payroll operations. This role is ...

We are seeking a Sr Payroll Specialist to join our Global HR Operations team, reporting to the Sr Manager, Global Payroll. This role is responsible for end-to-end U.S. payroll processing and support ...

Sr Payroll Specialist

Columbia, MD · On-site

$81K - $111K/yr

We are seeking a Sr Payroll Specialist to join our Global HR Operations team, reporting to the Sr Manager, Global Payroll. This role is responsible for end-to-end U.S. payroll processing and support ...

Sr Payroll Specialist

Columbia, MD · On-site

$81K - $111K/yr

We are seeking a Sr Payroll Specialist to join our Global HR Operations team, reporting to the Sr Manager, Global Payroll. This role is responsible for end-to-end U.S. payroll processing and support ...

Showing results 21-40

Payroll Operations Manager information

See Washington salary details

$47.6K

$101.3K

$150.6K

How much do payroll operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll operations manager in Washington is $101,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $117,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Operations Manager, you need expertise in payroll processing, compliance with labor laws, and a strong background in finance or accounting, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with payroll software such as ADP, Workday, or SAP, as well as certifications like CPP (Certified Payroll Professional), is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for managing teams and ensuring accuracy. These skills are vital to guarantee timely and compliant payroll operations, minimize errors, and lead an efficient payroll department.

What are some common challenges faced by payroll operations managers, and how can they be addressed?

Payroll Operations Managers often encounter challenges such as staying compliant with frequently changing tax laws, managing high volumes of data accurately, and ensuring timely payroll processing across multiple locations. To address these, it's important to implement robust payroll software, maintain ongoing training for staff, and establish strong internal controls. Effective communication with HR, finance, and external vendors also plays a crucial role in resolving discrepancies and maintaining smooth operations.

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

AspectPayroll Operations ManagerPayroll Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field; payroll certifications preferredUsually requires a high school diploma or associate degree; payroll certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentOversees payroll teams, manages processes, and ensures compliance across departmentsPerforms payroll processing, data entry, and verification tasks
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in medium to large organizations across various industriesFound in organizations of all sizes, often in HR or finance departments

The Payroll Operations Manager focuses on overseeing payroll processes, managing teams, and ensuring compliance, while the Payroll Specialist handles the day-to-day payroll data entry and processing tasks. Both roles require payroll knowledge, but the manager position involves leadership and strategic oversight.

What does a payroll operations manager do?

A payroll operations manager oversees the processing of employee compensation, ensuring accurate and timely payment while maintaining compliance with tax laws and company policies. They manage payroll systems, coordinate with HR and finance departments, and often use payroll software to handle data and reporting tasks.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Payroll Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Payroll Operations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Operations Manager job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,250 per year, or $48.7 per hour.

Payroll Manager

Legence

Beltsville, MD • On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

About Legence
Legence (Nasdaq: LGN) is a leading provider of engineering, consulting, installation, and maintenance services for mission-critical systems in buildings. The company specializes in designing, fabricating, and installing complex HVAC, process piping, and other mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems-enhancing energy efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in new and existing facilities. Legence also delivers long-term performance through strategic upgrades and holistic solutions. Serving some of the world's most technically demanding sectors, Legence counts over 60% of the Nasdaq-100 Index among its clients.
Position Overview
The Payroll Manager will direct and manage all aspects of in-house payroll operations for one business unit, ensuring the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of payroll for up to 2,000 employees. The ideal candidate will possess the ability to support team members with day-to-day work while harmonizing payroll operations, aligning with the company's overall payroll goals. The candidate will work in the Bowers office in Beltsville, MD.
Key Responsibilities
  • Manage payroll team of 4-6 employees
  • Support payroll processing for up to 2,000 employees
  • Support full in-house payroll including check/ACH distribution, tax payments, tax registrations, managing deductions, processing W2s and other required reports
  • Support timekeeping
  • Support union reporting and payment requirements
  • Drive automation within the payroll team by partnering with payroll and IT teams to deliver quality solutions in a timely manner
  • Assist the Director of Payroll in validating or establishing payroll audits and controls
  • Assist the payroll team in documenting processes and identifying opportunities for improvement or automation
  • Provide leadership to support and execute business process-related goals
  • Work with finance or payroll team as needed to resolve payroll GL posting questions
  • Provide professional and technical coaching, mentoring, and development plans to team members
  • Develop technical reports, metrics, and specifications for trend analysis and remediation

Desired Experience and Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in a Business, Accounting, or Human Resources discipline or an equivalent combination of training and experience
  • Minimum of 5 years' experience in multi-state payroll with strong payroll law knowledge; Prior supervisory experience is required
  • Experience managing payroll with a minimum of 1,000 employees; Union experience preferred
  • Proficiency with Excel, data analysis, build/write formulae, and test data
  • Strong systems background and experience with software implementations; Experience with Dayforce, ADP, GP, Sage, Deltek, or Spectrum Systems preferred
  • Ability to work collaboratively with payroll and project teams during payroll system upgrades and implementations
  • Proven leadership and influencing skills to successfully lead projects and teams
  • Must have a customer focused attitude with strong communication skills, verbal and written

Salary Range: $110,000 to $120,000 (This role is also eligible for an annual performance-based bonus. Bonus eligibility and payout are determined by role, individual performance, and company performance, and are not guaranteed.)
#LI-AC1 #LI-Onsite
Benefits Overview
401(k) Plan with Company Match: Currently match contributions dollar-for-dollar up to 4% of eligible pay; immediate vesting.
Health & Welfare Benefits: Employer provided medical, dental, vision, prescription drug, Employee Assistance Program and accident & illness coverage.
Life and Disability Insurance: Employer provided basic life insurance and AD&D valued at 50K coverage amount with the option for voluntary buy up for additional coverage.
Time Off: Flexible non-accrual vacation; company holidays per policy. (For California employees, this is separate from California paid sick leave, if applicable.)
Expenses: Business travel and related expenses reimbursed per company policy.
Reasonable Accommodations
If you need assistance or accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact us at ta@wearelegence.com or your dedicated recruiter with the job title and requisition number.
Employment Eligibility
Candidates must have current work authorization in the U.S.; visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Third-Party Recruiting Disclaimer
Legence and its affiliates do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies; any such submissions without a prior signed agreement authorized by Legence Holdings LLC's CHRO or Director of Talent Acquisition will not incur fees and are considered property of Legence.
Pay Disclosure & Considerations
Where pay ranges are indicated, please note that a successful candidate's exact pay will be determined based relevant job-related factors, including any of the following: candidate's experience, skills, and qualifications, as well as geographic and market considerations. We are committed to ensuring fair and competitive compensation for all employees and comply with all applicable salary transparency laws.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
Legence and its affiliate companies are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), marital or familial status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, other non-merit-based factors, and any other characteristic protected under applicable local, state or federal laws and regulations.
EEO is the Law