Director Payroll

• 2959 Salinas Hwy, Monterey, California
• 220 Southridge Pkwy, Bessemer City,

GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PRIMARY PURPOSE:

This role will oversee all aspects of payroll operations, ensuring timely and accurate payroll processing, compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and alignment with internal policies.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS/DUTIES OF THE POSITION:

* Strategic Payroll Management:
o Develop and implement strategies to improve payroll processes, accuracy, and efficiency.
o Lead payroll system enhancements, including upgrades and implementation of new technologies.
* Compliance and Regulatory Oversight:
o Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and standards, including federal, state, and local payroll tax laws.
o Monitor changes in regulations and update internal policies and processes accordingly.
o Maintain strong internal controls and ensure compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) and audit requirements.
o Manage and oversee tax reporting, garnishments, deductions, benefits, and statutory payments.
* Leadership and Team Development:
o Lead, mentor, and develop the payroll team, ensuring high levels of performance, accuracy, and customer service.
o Coordinate with HR, Finance, and Legal departments to manage payroll-related activities and ensure organizational alignment.
* Payroll Operations and Process Improvement:
o Manage and optimize end-to-end payroll processing, including earnings, deductions, taxes, and benefit contributions for approximately 4,000 employees.
o Identify opportunities for automation and process improvements to minimize errors and enhance efficiency.
o Ensure accurate and timely processing of wage increases, bonuses, and retroactive pay adjustments.
* Reporting and Audits:
o Prepare, review, and submit payroll reports for internal and external purposes, including audits, financial reporting, and tax filings.
o Respond to internal and external audit requests, ensuring timely resolution of audit findings.
o Monitor and maintain payroll records and documentation to comply with retention policies and audit standards.
* Vendor and System Management:
o Oversee relationships with external vendors, including payroll service providers and tax authorities.
o Evaluate and implement new payroll software or system improvements as needed.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES:

* 8+ years of progressive payroll management experience, including multi-jurisdictional payroll.
* In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll regulations, tax compliance, and reporting requirements.
* Experience with payroll audits, SOX compliance, and internal control frameworks.
* Strong leadership skills and ability to lead cross-functional teams.
* Proficiency in payroll systems (e.g., ADP) and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
* Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
* Ability to maintain accurate records and ensure strict adherence to legal and financial requirements.
* Commitment to accuracy and precision in payroll processing and reporting.
* Ability to work effectively with HR, Finance, and Legal departments to achieve organizational goals.
* Ability to navigate and adapt to changes in laws, regulations, and business needs.
Preferred Skills:
* Experience in a publicly traded company or large multinational organization.
* Familiarity with equity compensation (e.g., stock options, RSUs) and payroll impacts.
* Experience managing payroll for unionized and non-unionized employees.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

* While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and use a computer
* answer phones and utilize a variety of office equipment for extended periods of time.
* Ability to lift a minimum of 25 lbs. to waist level and reach overhead.

WORK HOUR & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

* Ability to work after regular office hours, weekends and overtime as needed
* Ability to travel domestically approximately 10% is required

EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION:

* Bachelor's degree required, preferably in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field (Master's is a plus).
* CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification is strongly preferred.

PAY RATE:

• $160,000 - $180,000 Annually

EEO STATEMENT: We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability.