Payroll Manager

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates Inc. (WJE) is a global firm of engineers, architects, and materials scientists committed to helping solve, repair, and avoid problems in the built world and construction industry. Since 1956, our applied experience from more than 175,000 projects and our state-of-the-art laboratory and testing facilities have made WJE a leader in providing innovative yet practical solutions to the clients we serve. From historic preservation to post-disaster safety assessments, we respond to the most challenging problems in the built world.

We're looking for an experienced Payroll Manager to own the process from start-to-finish. This person will be tasked with evaluating and assessing the current payroll function, identify gaps, and suggest recommendations where necessary. Leveraging past leadership experience, they will be responsible mentoring and developing junior staff on the team.

Typical Functions:

• Process bi-weekly, multi-state payroll, including expense reimbursements both on and off-cycle

• Execute payroll related record keeping and accounting activities

• Own the payroll process from start-to-finish; including operations, process, audits and compliance

• Troubleshoot payroll issues, process annual W-2s

• Set up new state and/or local tax accounts for payroll tax and unemployment insurance payments

• Complete bi-weekly and monthly payroll and related tax journal entries into ERP system

• Audit HR data entered in HRIS system (Workday) which is integrated into ERP for accuracy with payroll records

• Ensure accuracy of payroll accounting data, including overtime pay calculations 

• Ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal wage laws and directives

• Run bi-weekly, quarterly, and annual reports as needed for various audits 

• Develop techniques to improve the efficiency and accuracy of time reporting and payroll-related processes and procedures

• Work with Benefits Administration Team for benefits and 401k deduction adjustments

• Communicate employee changes (new hires, terminations, status/unit changes) to Accounting department

• Lead, develop and mentor junior staff on the payroll team

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree with five years of relevant experience. CPP preferred 

• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Excel and Word 

• Excellent verbal and written communications skills 

• People leadership and development experience

• High level of confidentiality and attention to detail 

• Ability to prioritize

WJE offers a robust, total compensation structure composed of base salary, incentive pay, and industry-leading benefits:

• Base salary is determined through consideration of a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role while remaining mindful of our commitment to internal equity.

• Employees receive variable compensation based on personal and company performance, typically resulting in above-market total compensation.

A good faith estimate of the annual starting base salary (gross) is in the following range:

WJE’s industry-leading, total rewards package enables our employees to grow and thrive with comprehensive health and financial benefits, including:

• Robust and affordable health plans for employees and their families, including HSA as well as low and high-deductible PPO options

• Generous 401(k) matching of 110% for the first 6% of eligible pay, vesting immediately

• Time off to care for yourself and others

• Investments in employees’ educational assistance and professional development

Learn more about WJE’s total rewards package here.