Payroll / Implementation Manager - Search Firm

Job Summary

Under the direction of the AVP of HRM this position is responsible for managing the daily payroll activities for all CSULB and Cross-Campus Payroll Collaborations for all faculty, management, staff and student employees - in compliance with state and federal laws, regulations CSU policies and executive orders. Managing a team of fourteen Payroll Services and HRSS staff, the incumbent must ensure every employee is accurately paid and on time; new hire paperwork is processed; payroll data records are maintained and recorded into the State Controller's Office payroll system and PeopleSoft CMS; timekeeping and leave reporting is processed; disbursements are calculated and paid, and accounts receivables are tracked and payments recorded.

The Payroll Manager will oversee the payroll implementation process across multiple campuses, ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining high service standards. This role involves close collaboration with campus representatives, managing a cross-campus payroll team, and developing implementation materials. This position will be responsible for the hiring, training, and day-to-day direction of Payroll Technicians, resolving complex issues, and ensuring the smooth operation of payroll processes across campuses.

The Payroll Manager is also responsible for recommending and developing payroll policies and best practices that contribute toward efforts to standardize payroll procedures and continuous improvement efforts between CSULB and multiple campuses.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day Payroll Operations functions and staff for CSULB and the Cross-Campus Payroll Collaboration Project, ensuring compliance with all internal and statutory requirements, and timely and accurate processing of payroll and related financial controls. Develop documentation and communication tools to support efficiencies and streamline operations.
• Day to Day Cross-Campus Payroll Collaboration Liaison between CSULB and CSUs.
• Interpret Laws, Policies, and Procedures. Analyze applicable state / federal laws, CSU policies, and related campus requirements and procedures to correctly translate the impact on payroll operations and promptly make recommendations to upper management about procedural or policy changes as required.
• Implement payroll practices and new or revised policies and procedures in an effective, efficient, customer-oriented and accountable manner based on applicable payroll rules and regulations to ensure accurate and timely payment of wages for employees. The incumbent must have a thorough understanding of the State Controller's Office Payroll System and PeopleSoft HR applications as directly and indirectly used by the Payroll Services areas.
• Responsible for testing implementing and maintaining the payroll related modules in PeopleSoft HR.
• Development, coordination and provision of appropriate communications and training; ad hoc reporting; and special projects related to payroll functions.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

The ideal candidate must possess a solid understanding of state and federal payroll laws, including the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), and demonstrate extensive experience in best payroll practices such as payroll accounts receivable, levies, earnings withholding orders, and wage assignments. They should have in-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll tax laws, including filing, reporting, and compliance requirements, with experience in union environments preferred. Strong leadership skills are essential, including the ability to motivate, mentor, train, evaluate, and develop a high-performing, team-oriented staff while ensuring timely payroll completion with minimal supervision in a safe work environment. Proficiency in payroll, time reporting, leave tracking, and HR / payroll systems—particularly PeopleSoft—is required, with added value for experience in system upgrades.

The candidate must exhibit strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex and sometimes conflicting regulations, recommend effective procedures, and reengineer payroll processes using innovative, technology-driven solutions such as self-service and web-based applications. Excellent oral and written communication skills are necessary to clearly explain complex HR and payroll issues to diverse audiences. A commitment to positive customer service, confidentiality, and the ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure in a fast-paced environment is essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook is required.

Ability to communicate with an ethnically and culturally diverse campus community. Ability to follow all university policies, procedures, and guidelines including but not limited to safety, civility, information security, and non-discrimination policies and procedures. Ability to contribute to a positive university experience for each and every student and assist in achieving the university's commitment to a "vision of excellence."

Education and Experience

Equivalent to a bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or related field of study from a four-year college or university and five years or professional level HR / payroll experience, including at least two years of HR / Payroll management experience. Experience in higher education is preferred.

Physical Summary

Department

HR Service Group

Compensation

Hiring Range : The hiring range for this position is $9,166 - $11,250 per month commensurate with candidate's education, experience, skills, and training.

CSU MPP Compensation Summary Range : The MPP Comp Summary Range for this position is $9,164 - $13,746 per month.

Salary placement is determined by the education, experience, and qualifications the candidate brings to the position, internal equity, and the hiring department’s fiscal resources.