Payroll Manager

Overview

The organization is seeking a Payroll Manager based in Auburn Hills, Michigan or Smyrna, Tennessee. Hybrid or remote candidates will also be considered.

This role will begin within the Support Systems Division and expand over time to manage payroll for all U.S. operations and then global operations. The position includes opportunities to grow payroll processes alongside Human Resources.

Responsibilities

Payroll Operations

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing for all employees (hourly, salary, and international if applicable).
• Establish policies and processes that ensure accurate calculation of wages, tax withholdings, and company deductions for all cycles.
• Interface between Finance and Human Resources to provide accurate, useful information.
• Develop and produce payroll-related statistical reports.
• Resolve complex issues and payroll errors.
• Ensure project/department milestones and goals are met while adhering to approved budgets.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Apply in-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local tax regulations, wage & hour laws, benefits administration, and garnishments.
• Administer payroll software processes (e.g., ADP) and serve as a subject matter expert.
• Manage internal/external audits and resolve discrepancies promptly.
• Ensure accurate, on-time governmental reporting and ongoing compliance.

Systems and Reporting

• Serve as a subject matter expert for payroll systems.
• Maintain and optimize payroll systems.
• Generate and analyze payroll reports, KPIs, and cost trends.

Accounting and Reconciliation

• Reconcile payroll records with general ledger accounts.
• Partner with Finance to ensure accurate labor cost reporting.
• Investigate and resolve payroll variances and discrepancies.

Leadership and Continuous Improvement

• Lead, train, and develop staff (if applicable).
• Identify process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Support HR transformation initiatives and system upgrades.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in related area required.
• 5–8+ years of payroll experience, including multi-state payroll administration.
• Experience in manufacturing or multi-site operations.
• Certifications: possess an industry-recognized credential such as being a Certified Payroll Professional.
• Global Payroll: ability to process global payroll processes preferred.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data-driven decision-making.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in payroll software systems such as ADP.
• Advanced Excel and data analysis skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Compensation & Benefits

• Not specified in the job description.

Location

• Auburn Hills, Michigan or Smyrna, Tennessee
• Hybrid or remote candidates will also be considered.

Equal Opportunity

• The employer does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by law. Selection decisions are based on job-related factors.