Payroll Manager
We are looking for an experienced Payroll Manager to lead payroll operations for a large, multi-entity workforce in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This Long-term Contract position will oversee biweekly payroll processing, payroll system administration, and tax compliance across a complex multi-state environment. The ideal candidate brings strong functional knowledge of payroll configuration, a consultative approach when partnering with leaders, and the ability to maintain accurate, compliant payroll delivery for a high-volume employee population.
Responsibilities:
• Direct end-to-end payroll activities for a biweekly cycle supporting 7,500 to 8,500 employees across multiple business divisions.
• Manage payroll operations across 3 entities while ensuring consistency in processes, controls, and service levels.
• Maintain payroll system settings and functional configuration, including tax tables, earning codes, deduction codes, and reciprocity rules.
• Partner with internal teams and external payroll tax providers to communicate requirements, validate updates, and test changes related to tax processing in PeopleSoft.
• Oversee payroll tax compliance for employees working in 15+ states and ensure accurate reporting, filings, and year-end processing for W-2 and 1099 forms.
• Review time and payroll data through audits and quality checks to improve accuracy and resolve discrepancies before final processing.
• Guide and support payroll staff by assigning work, monitoring progress, and promoting effective day-to-day execution.
• Collaborate with Accounting, Human Resources, IT, and operational leaders to address payroll issues, deliver reporting, and recommend process improvements.
• Prepare recurring and ad hoc payroll reports covering operational metrics, compliance matters, and system-related updates.
• Protect the confidentiality of payroll records and uphold internal policies, legal requirements, and sound data security practices.
Qualifications:
• Proven experience managing full-cycle payroll in a high-volume environment supporting more than 500 employees.• Strong background in multi-state payroll administration, including tax compliance and reporting requirements.
• Functional expertise in payroll system configuration and setup, particularly tax tables, earnings, deductions, and related rules.
• Hands-on experience with PeopleSoft in a payroll environment.
• Ability to oversee payroll operations spanning multiple entities or business units.
• Solid understanding of federal, state, and local payroll regulations and their practical application.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with a focus on accuracy and process control.
• Effective communication skills with the ability to work consultatively with managers and cross-functional stakeholders.
Compensation
$43.54-$50.41 HourlyAbout Us
Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.
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All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.
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