Payroll Manager

Payroll Manager (100% Remote) Location: Pittsburgh or Nashville base   About Our Client Our client is a rapidly scaling, consumer-driven brand that’s reimagining a traditional experience into something bold, modern, and culture-forward. With an emphasis on creativity, energy, and people-first values, they’ve built a loyal following—and they’re just getting started. Behind the scenes, this organization is equally impressive: fast growth, multi-state operations, and a leadership team committed to building infrastructure that can scale. This is where you come in. Why This Role is a Game-Changer This is a fully remote, high-impact Payroll Manager role where you won’t just “run payroll”—you’ll build it, own it, and elevate it. Our client is bringing payroll fully in-house for the first time, and they’re looking for someone who thrives in that kind of ownership. If you enjoy taking something complex, streamlining it, and making it world-class—this is your lane. The Role The Payroll Manager will take full ownership of payroll operations for a multi-state workforce of 2,000+ employees across a rapidly expanding footprint. This role will oversee the entire payroll lifecycle—from data inputs and compliance to reporting and process optimization—while partnering cross-functionally with HR, Finance, and Operations. You’ll be the go-to expert, the problem-solver, and the architect of a scalable payroll function. What You’ll Own End-to-End Payroll Execution Lead the full biweekly payroll cycle across multiple entities and states Process and validate payroll data, including earnings, deductions, and tax treaments Ensure accurate integration of timekeeping data and variable compensation elements Deliver payroll on time, every time—with zero surprises High-Volume, Complex Environment Manage payroll in a fast-paced, multi-location environment with hourly and salaried employees Oversee variable pay components such as tips, incentives, and bonuses Ensure accuracy across large datasets and multiple systems Compliance & Risk Management Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations Manage multi-state tax filings, payments, and issue resolution Maintain compliance with wage laws, including minimum wage and tip-related regulations Reconciliation & Controls Perform detailed payroll audits and reconciliations (gross-to-net, benefits, GL tie-outs) Partner with Accounting on month-end close and payroll accruals Investigate and resolve discrepancies with a proactive mindset Systems & Optimization Serve as the internal expert across payroll and timekeeping platforms Identify automation opportunities and implement process improvements Build scalable workflows and internal controls as the company grows Business Partnership Act as the internal payroll authority for employee and leadership inquiries Partner with HR on employee lifecycle events and compensation changes Support operations with insights into labor costs and payroll reporting What You Bring Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, or related field 5+ years of payroll experience in high-volume environments Experience supporting 1,000+ employees across multiple states Strong knowledge of payroll tax compliance and wage regulations Experience with modern payroll systems  Bonus Points Background in restaurant, hospitality, or tip-driven environments Experience with integrated payroll/timekeeping systems Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) What Success Looks Like (First 6 Months) Seamlessly transition payroll from an outsourced model to in-house ownership Establish streamlined, repeatable payroll workflows and controls Improve processing efficiency, accuracy, and reporting visibility Ensure airtight compliance across all jurisdictions Perks & Benefits Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Life & AD&D Coverage Fully Remote Flexibility  Tech Requirements Must provide your own laptop Reliable high-speed internet required The Bottom Line If you’re looking for a remote role where you can truly own a function, make an impact, and grow alongside a high-energy, scaling organization—this is it.