We are looking for an experienced Sr. Payroll Manager to lead end-to-end payroll operations for a dynamic organization in Torrance, California. This role is responsible for delivering accurate and timely payroll, strengthening financial controls, and maintaining compliance with applicable wage and tax regulations. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership skills, deep payroll accounting knowledge, and the ability to collaborate across HR, Finance, and rewards functions to improve processes and reporting.
Responsibilities:
- Direct the full payroll cycle for standard and off-cycle payments, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on schedule.
- Oversee payroll-related accounting activities, including account balancing, journal support, and review of liabilities tied to payroll transactions.
- Maintain adherence to federal, state, and local payroll tax obligations, benefit accrual practices, and required reporting standards.
- Work closely with Human Resources, Finance, and Total Rewards teams to resolve payroll issues and support ongoing business needs.
- Lead payroll reporting and month-end close deliverables by preparing accurate data, reviewing results, and addressing discrepancies.
- Identify opportunities to streamline payroll workflows, strengthen controls, and improve overall processing efficiency.
- Support relationships with external payroll service providers and assist with audit requests related to payroll records and compliance.
- Manage and mentor payroll staff, setting priorities and promoting high standards for accuracy, service, and accountability.
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- At least 5 years of progressive payroll experience, including ownership of full-cycle payroll processing.
- Minimum of 3 years of leadership experience managing payroll teams or functions.
- Strong background in payroll accounting, reconciliations, and liability account management.
- Solid understanding of payroll tax requirements and regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions.
- Advanced Excel skills with the ability to analyze payroll data and prepare detailed reports.
- Experience with multi-state and bi-monthly payroll processing; CPP credential is a plus.
- Familiarity with platforms such as ADP Vantage, Kronos, SuccessFactors, and finance or HR systems is preferred.