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Payroll Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manager, Payroll Operations

Herndon, VA · On-site

$145K - $160K/yr

Akima is looking for a Payroll Operations Manager to work in Herndon, VA on a hybrid basis. To join our team of outstanding professionals, apply today! Responsible for managing a team for preparation ...

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Reporting to the Payroll Manager, this role serves as a key operational partner responsible for payroll administration, payroll support, timekeeping audits, payroll reporting, payroll analytics ...

The Assistant Vice President (AVP), Payroll Operations is a senior payroll leader responsible for ... risk management. The AVP advances service excellence and payroll modernization in support of ...

The Assistant Vice President (AVP), Payroll Operations is a senior payroll leader responsible for ... risk management. The AVP advances service excellence and payroll modernization in support of ...

The Assistant Vice President (AVP), Payroll Operations is a senior payroll leader responsible for ... risk management. The AVP advances service excellence and payroll modernization in support of ...

Manage, coach, and develop the NAMER Payroll Operations team. * Ensure all monthly, quarterly, and annual filings and year-end statements are issued per local legislation. * Build and maintain a ...

Manage, coach, and develop the NAMER Payroll Operations team. * Ensure all monthly, quarterly, and annual filings and year-end statements are issued per local legislation. * Build and maintain a ...

The position reports to the Corporate Payroll Manager and plays a critical role in supporting the company's workforce and operational excellence. Key Responsibilities * Lead daily payroll operations ...

Payroll Operations Specialist

New York, NY · On-site

$25.75 - $35/hr

... Management in a single unified platform powered by AI. Our next-gen HR and payroll platform ... The Payroll Operations Specialist will help ensure payrolls are reviewed, processed, reconciled ...

US Payroll Operations

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a seasoned US Payroll Operations expert to scale, and continuously improve the ... Ability to independently manage multiple competing priorities, take ownership of outcomes, and ...

Manage and develop a team of payroll operations leaders * Own payroll controls, SOX compliance, and audit readiness * Oversee payroll tax operations, filings, reconciliations, and notice resolution

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Payroll Operations Manager information

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$42K

$89.4K

$133K

How much do payroll operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll operations manager 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.

Is payroll manager a stressful job?

A payroll manager role involves overseeing payroll processing, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely payments, which can be stressful during peak periods such as tax season or audits. The job requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to handle tight deadlines and sensitive information, which may contribute to stress levels.

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

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 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.

How much do payroll managers earn?

Payroll managers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and company size. They often require knowledge of payroll software and compliance regulations to perform their duties effectively.

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 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 highest paying job in payroll?

The highest paying roles in payroll are often senior-level positions such as Payroll Director or Payroll Vice President, which oversee payroll operations and strategy for large organizations. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of payroll systems and compliance, and they can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually depending on the company and location.
More about Payroll Operations Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Payroll Operations Manager jobs? Cities with the most Payroll Operations Manager job openings:
What states have the most Payroll Operations Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Payroll Operations Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Payroll Operations Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Payroll Operations Manager jobs are:
Infographic showing various Payroll Operations Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,396 per year, or $43 per hour.
Payroll Operations Manager (Levels I - IV)

Payroll Operations Manager (Levels I - IV)

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL • On-site

$64K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Florida State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department
Payroll | Controller's Office
As part of the Controller's Office, the Payroll Department is committed to ensuring accurate and timely compensation for all university employees. We oversee payroll processing, tax compliance, and financial reporting while delivering exceptional service to faculty, staff, and student employees. Our team values precision, efficiency, and collaboration, operating in a dynamic environment to support the university.
Responsibilities
The Controller's Office offers career ladders for many of our positions, providing tenured employees with promotional opportunities within their job. The successful candidate will be hired at the most appropriate level of Payroll Operations Manager I through IV, based on their specific education and experience.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Department Management
  • Provide leadership, direction, and oversight for the Payroll Operations team within Payroll Services.
  • Promote staff development, productivity, and operational excellence through effective supervision and performance management.
  • Serve as a liaison between management and employees by interpreting policies, addressing concerns, and resolving workplace issues.
  • Participate in departmental planning, projects, and strategic initiatives that support university and divisional goals.
Payroll Operations Management
  • Oversee the timely and accurate processing of bi-weekly payroll cycles and off-cycle payroll activities.
  • Manage payroll functions including salary over-payments, child support and wage garnishments, fringe benefit payments, nonresident alien independent contractors, and scholarship payments.
  • Ensure the timely submission of ACH direct deposit files for all payroll cycles.
  • Monitor service levels and ensure prompt, accurate, and professional responses to inquiries from departments, employees, and external stakeholders.
  • Resolve escalated payroll issues and collaborate with leadership on complex or non-routine matters.
Payroll Compliance and Risk Management
  • Ensure payroll operations comply with university policies and applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
  • Identify, research, and resolve payroll processing issues in a timely manner.
  • Collaborate with Human Resources, Budget and Financial Services, and other university departments to address compliance concerns and implement corrective actions.
  • Support payroll system testing and process reviews to ensure regulatory compliance and operational effectiveness.
Payroll Systems, Controls, and Process Improvement
  • Maintain strong internal controls and oversee payroll reconciliation processes.
  • Monitor payroll exceptions and ensure timely resolution of discrepancies.
  • Analyze operational processes and recommend improvements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.
  • Develop and implement procedures that strengthen payroll operations and support university initiatives.
  • Ensure payroll activities are performed in accordance with generally accepted payroll and accounting principles.

Qualifications
Master's degree in accounting, finance, or similar field and three years of experience; or a Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or similar field and five years of experience; or a high school diploma or equivalent and nine years of experience. (Note: a combination of post high school education and experience equal to eight years.)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of principles, practices, and standards of payroll administration in the assigned area.
  • Ability to maintain and improve personal and team effectiveness and foster change and creativity.
  • Knowledge of and ability to interpret and apply related federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations.
  • Knowledge of and ability to interpret and apply related University policies, procedures, principles, and practices.
  • Ability to evaluate process effectiveness and develop changes or alternatives.
  • Ability to utilize problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to demonstrate critical thinking based on in-depth data, substantiating information, considering, and respecting others' input, personal values, and ethics.

University Information
One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research and encourages creativity. At FSU, there's the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow's news!
Learn more about Florida State University and our campuses .
Anticipated Salary Range
The anticipated salary for this position is $64,000, commensurate with experience and education.
FSU Total Rewards
FSU offers a robust Total Rewards package. Visit our FSU Total Rewards website to learn more about our Compensation, Benefits, Wellness, Recognition, and Employee Development programs.
Use our FSU Total Compensation Calculato r to calculate Total Compensation options based on potential salary, benefits and retirement contributions, earned leave, and other employment-related perks.
How To Apply
If qualified and interested in a specific job opening as advertised, apply through the FSU Careers site (jobs.fsu.edu). If you are a current FSU employee, apply through myFSU Self Service.
Applicants are required to complete the online application with all applicable information. Applications must include all work history up to ten years, and education details even if attaching a resume.
Considerations
This is an A&P position.
This position requires successful completion of a criminal history background check .
Equal Employment Opportunity
FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

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About Florida State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research, encourages creativity, and embraces diversity. At FSU, there's the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow's news!

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tallahassee, FL, US

Year founded

1851