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Payroll Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McKinstry

Payroll Operations Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

$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 ...

Banyan Search

Director of Payroll Operations

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

Director of Payroll Operations Raleigh, NC · Hybrid Banyan Search is partnering with a growing, publicly traded company to place a Director of Payroll Operations. This is a senior operational ...

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Cybercoders

Payroll Operations Manager

Wichita, KS

Payroll Operations Manager About the Firm We are a premier CPA and advisory firm with a legacy of excellence spanning over 80 years. As one of the top 200 firms in the U.S., we serve a diverse range ...

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OpenAI

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 payroll and payroll-support ecosystem that serves one of the fastest-growing and most technically ...

Cybercoders

Payroll Operations Manager

Wichita, KS

Payroll Operations Manager About the Firm We are a premier CPA and advisory firm with a legacy of excellence spanning over 80 years. As one of the top 200 firms in the U.S., we serve a diverse range ...

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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 ...

Cliftonlarsonallen

Payroll Operations Leader

Tampa, FL · On-site

CLA is looking to hire a Payroll Operations Director. This role is a key member of the outsourcing HR Systems and Payroll (HRSP) team, providing leadership to the payroll processing service team ...

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All JobsPayroll Operations Jobs

Payroll Operations information

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$42K

$89.4K

$133K

How much do payroll operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 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 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 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
What cities are hiring for Payroll Operations jobs? Cities with the most Payroll Operations job openings:
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 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,396 per year, or $43 per hour.

Director Payroll Operations

Spurs Sports and Entertainment

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

At Spurs Sports & Entertainment (SS&E), we work in service of something bigger than ourselves.
To us it is so much more than just a game or concert. It takes all the members of our Spurs team to harness the power of sports and entertainment to create moments that excite, memories that endure, and connections that strengthen our community. SS&E owns and operates the San Antonio Spurs (NBA), Austin Spurs (NBA G-League), and the San Antonio FC (USL), and manages day-to-day operations of the Frost Bank Center, Toyota Field and STAR Complex.
We know that our people are our greatest asset as an organization. We aspire to provide our teams with meaningful work, to live our values -Integrity, Success & Caring - day-to-day in what we do and foster an inclusive culture for our 1K+ employee workforce.
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. This role ensures accuracy, timely pay, compliance, scalability and innovation in payroll operations, driving automation, analytics and process improvement. The Director of Payroll Operations partners cross-functionally across business units including Finance & Accounting, HR, Legal and Basketball Operations to optimize payroll systems, controls and the workforce pay experiences supporting both business and event-related needs. This role is the subject matter expert on compliance, payroll technology, tax and audit requirements, and internal controls. In partnership with Finance & Accounting and HR, this role supports the payroll technology integration and processes needed to meet these business needs.
What You'll Do:
  • Lead payroll transformation initiatives, implementing process automation and system integration to improve efficiency, security and compliance.
  • Hire, mentor, and lead a high-performing payroll team. Manage and develop payroll staff to ensure accuracy of payroll information and implementation of appropriate processes and controls to safeguard the employee and organization.
  • Provide payroll related metrics and analysis support needed for financial planning. Develop and maintain payroll related reporting and record keeping to support various League and external audits.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with HR, Technology, Finance & Accounting and Legal to ensure data integrity, system alignment and compliance.
  • Ensures there is governance in place to support the accurate calculation of wages, taxes, overtime, bonuses, retroactive adjustments, garnishments, deductions, and benefit contributions to name a few.
  • Manage event-based and multi-jurisdictional payroll complexities, including federal, state, and local tax and league compliance across all full and part-time staff payrolls, as well as travel and per diem related items during sporting seasons, including quarterly reporting and taxation requirements.
  • Champion employee pay-experience excellence by ensuring transparency, accuracy and responsive support.
  • Lead NBA League & Player related pension plan maintenance, reporting and funding for various qualified and non-qualified plans. Partner with HR and Legal to ensure SS&E 401(k) Plan compliance and related data accuracy.

Who You Are:
  • 10+ years of progressive payroll experience. At least 5+ years of payroll leadership experience. Sports, entertainment and/or hospitality industries preferred in a multi franchise environment.
  • Degree in business or related field or CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) preferred
  • Proficiency in HRIS/Payroll systems, Dayforce, Kronos and Concur experience is highly preferred. Experience with SAGE Intact is valued.
  • Proficiency in MS Office products including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
  • Deep knowledge of payroll-related accounting practices and principles. Expertise leading payroll in a complex, high volume, non-exempt, and seasonal environment.
  • Deep expertise instate and federal employment laws relating to key areas of responsibility.
  • Multi-state reporting and compliance experience preferred.
  • Accounting experience preferred.
  • The highest level of discretion in handling confidential information.
  • Must have very strong and proven organizational skills.
  • Outstanding written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to prioritize and work with a dynamic environment.
  • Exceptional attention to detail, including recognizing and resolving discrepancies with a sense of urgency

Physical Requirements:
  • Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively in both verbal and written form.
  • Must be able to operate standard office equipment, such as a computer, phone, copier, printer, and other technology tools.
  • May occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds.
  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple deadlines and shifting priorities.

In every position, each employee is expected to: demonstrate alignment with SS&E's core values and mission, collaborate with internal/external community members and demonstrate ongoing development.
If you don't have experience in every single bullet above, no sweat - we still want to hear from you and encourage you to apply!
SS&E is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Nothing contained in this job description is intended to be a contract of employment, nor does any information contained here represent a guarantee of employment for a specific duration. Your employment with SS&E is "at will", which means that either you or SS&E may terminate the relationship at any time. Essential functions listed above must be performed with or without accommodations.

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