Senior Payroll Manager

Description We are looking for an experienced Senior Payroll Manager to lead payroll operations for a complex, multi-jurisdiction organization in Austin, Texas. This position will guide payroll strategy, strengthen compliance practices, and ensure accurate, timely processing across a large employee population. The role also partners closely with HR, Finance, Legal, and executive leadership to improve controls, support reporting needs, and build a high-performing payroll function.

Responsibilities:

• Direct end-to-end payroll operations, ensuring biweekly processing is completed accurately, on schedule, and in alignment with company policies.

• Oversee payroll data administration, including employee onboarding updates, compensation changes, deductions, and other system-maintained records.

• Review timekeeping information, validate payroll adjustments, and resolve discrepancies before final payroll submission.

• Administer wage calculations such as overtime, incentive pay, commissions, and other earnings while maintaining compliance with applicable regulations.

• Manage payroll tax activity, garnishments, benefit deductions, year-end reporting, and W-2 preparation across multiple states and jurisdictions.

• Lead and develop payroll leaders and team members by setting priorities, providing coaching, and driving accountability across daily operations.

• Establish payroll policies and governance standards in partnership with HR, Finance, Tax, and Legal to support compliance across domestic and international operations where applicable.

• Drive payroll technology planning and optimization, including system administration, enhancements, vendor coordination, and automation initiatives.

• Serve as the senior point of contact for executives, auditors, and external agencies by delivering reporting, risk insight, audit support, and resolution of complex payroll matters.

• Oversee payroll integration planning for acquisitions and divestitures, including due diligence support, operational alignment, and long-term standardization efforts. Requirements • 8+ years of progressive payroll experience, including leadership responsibility in complex organizational environments.

• 4+ years of experience with full ownership of a payroll function at the manager, director, or head-of-payroll level.

• Certified Payroll Certification or Fundamental Payroll Certification is required.

• Strong knowledge of multi-state payroll laws, tax requirements, and broader payroll compliance standards; multi-country exposure is highly valuable.

• Hands-on experience with Workday payroll administration and implementation activities.

• Advanced Excel skills with the ability to analyze payroll data, reconcile variances, and maintain strong data accuracy.

• Demonstrated success partnering across payroll, HR, finance, tax, and legal teams to support business and compliance objectives.

• Experience managing payroll for large employee populations, including full-cycle payroll processing in high-volume environments.

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.

Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.

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.

© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s Terms of Use (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms) and Privacy Notice (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/privacy) .