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Payroll Operations Manager Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Komatsu

Senior Manager, Payroll

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$123K - $155K/yr

Job Overview The Senior Manager, Payroll leads the payroll team and oversees payroll operations for a large, multi-state workforce, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and operational excellence. This ...

Restaurant365

WI · On-site

$200 - $260/hr

Compliance & Regulatory Management You'll be the executive point of escalation for tax authority ... Payroll operations are running with measurably improved accuracy, speed, and compliance consistency ...

Robert Half

Payroll Tax Analyst

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Manage payroll tax compliance activities for federal, state, and local jurisdictions. * Process and ... Experience supporting high-volume payroll operations is required - 3,500 employees+ * Strong ...

Fleet Farm

Payroll Professional

Appleton, WI · On-site

... operations across our multi-location retail organization. Depending on your experience and the ... Support UKG Workforce Management and UKG Pro by assisting with reporting, troubleshooting, user ...

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All JobsPayroll Operations JobsPayroll Operations Manager JobsPayroll Operations Manager Jobs in Wisconsin

Payroll Operations Manager information

See Wisconsin salary details

$42.4K

$90.2K

$134.2K

How much do payroll operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll operations manager in Wisconsin is $90,232.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,700.00 and $105,000.00 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 Wisconsin?

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

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

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

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

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

Payroll Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Operations Manager job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,232 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Senior Manager, Payroll

Komatsu

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$123K - $155K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Komatsu rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Job Description
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Senior Manager, Payroll
Posting Start Date: 8/12/26
Job Location (Short): Chicago, Illinois, USA, 60631 | Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, 53204-2941
Requisition ID: 36320
Onsite or Remote: Onsite Position

Join Komatsu and Be Part of Something Big!

Job Overview

The Senior Manager, Payroll leads the payroll team and oversees payroll operations for a large, multi-state workforce, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and operational excellence. This role plays a critical part in payroll and tax compliance risk mitigation, audit readiness, and driving process innovation to support the company's continued growth and scalability. As a trusted payroll subject matter expert, the Senior Manager leads high-impact initiatives including payroll system implementations and integrations, tax compliance initiatives, process redesign, and policy governance. Working collaboratively across Human Resources, Finance, Accounting, Legal, and external partners, this leader develops scalable payroll solutions, strengthens internal controls, and ensures payroll operations align with evolving business needs and regulatory requirements.

Key Job Responsibilities
  • Lead, coach, and develop the payroll team responsible for timely and accurate multi-state payroll processing.
  • Develop and execute payroll strategies that improve efficiency, automate processes, and support business growth.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations while maintaining strong internal controls and audit readiness.
  • Partner with HR, Finance, Accounting, Legal, and business leaders to align payroll operations with organizational priorities.
  • Manage relationships with third-party payroll providers, tax agencies, and system vendors to ensure exceptional service and compliance.
  • Lead payroll system implementations, upgrades, integrations, and process improvement initiatives across payroll, HRIS, timekeeping, and financial systems.
    Oversee the accurate administration of complex payroll transactions, including bonuses, commissions, equity payments, retroactive pay, garnishments, and leave programs.
    Monitor changes in payroll legislation and implement compliant policies, procedures, and best practices.
    Develop payroll metrics, reporting, and executive dashboards that provide actionable business insights.
    Serve as the escalation point for complex payroll issues and lead special HR and payroll projects as needed.
Qualifications/Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of progressive payroll experience, including leadership and team management responsibilities.
  • Experience managing payroll operations for a large, multi-state organization.
  • Expertise with UKG Pro (UltiPro) or a comparable enterprise payroll platform; payroll system implementation experience is strongly preferred.
  • Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation is strongly preferred.
  • Expert knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll laws, tax compliance, and reporting requirements.
  • Strong leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills with a track record of driving continuous improvement.
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with the ability to influence stakeholders across the organization.
  • Ability to manage confidential information with professionalism and integrity.
  • Experience leading cross-functional projects and implementing scalable payroll processes.
  • Willingness to travel up to 10% as needed.
Additional Information

Hiring Range

At Komatsu, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package. This role pays $123,000 - $155,000. The actual offer will consider a wide range of factors, including experience and location.

Company Benefits

Komatsu provides an extensive and robust employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members. We embrace a positive and empowering employee experience with a culture that prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment.

  • Health benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA, wellness programs, etc.
  • 401k and/or employee savings programs
  • Employee time off (vacation and designated holidays)
  • Employee and family assistance programs
  • Disability benefits
  • Life insurance
  • Employee learning and development programs

Diversity & Inclusion Commitment

At Komatsu, we come from diverse backgrounds, with unique perspectives, experiences and contributions. We believe that our people are part of our shared purpose. Connected by our core values of ambition, perseverance, collaboration and authenticity, we are committed to continually advancing in our support of diversity and inclusion. United, we are on a journey towards a sustainable future that creates value together.

Company Information

Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more than 140 countries. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Since the company's founding in 1921, Komatsu has been committed to supporting individuals and communities through job training, skills development and giving back. As a Komatsu employee, you will be encouraged to grow alongside our global company, contributing to a more sustainable future for all. If you are looking for a company that values your talent and potential, join Komatsu to be a part of something big and help advance modern society. Learn more at www.komatsu.com.

EEO Statement

Komatsu is an Equal Opportunity Workplace and an Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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