Senior U.S. Payroll Manager - Hypergrowth AI Technology

We are seeking an experienced Senior U.S. Payroll Manager to manage end-to-end U.S. payroll for a high-growth AI technology company. This role ensures accurate payroll processing, regulatory compliance, and proper payroll accounting and reporting. Key responsibilities include payroll tax compliance, month-end close, payroll audits, employee reimbursements, and collaboration with internal and external audit partners. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, collaborative, and comfortable operating in a dynamic, scaling organization.

This position reports to the controller.

• Manage full-cycle U.S. payroll processing for salaried and hourly employees
• Own end-to-end payroll processing, including wages, overtime, bonuses, and deductions
• Own U.S. payroll tax compliance, including federal, state, and local filings, payments, adjustments, and year-end reporting (W-2, W-2C)
• Lead and support the transition from PEO-managed payroll to fully in-house payroll operations
• Lead month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close activities related to payroll, including accruals and reconciliations
• Lead payroll audits, reconciliations, and variance analysis
• Oversee employee expense reimbursement processing to ensure accurate payment and accounting
• Act as the primary liaison for internal and external auditors on payroll-related matters
• Prepare audit schedules, documentation, and support SOX and payroll compliance requirements
• Develop, document, and maintain payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Evaluate and implement process improvements, automation opportunities, and system enhancements to increase efficiency and accuracy

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field
• 10+ years of U.S. payroll experience, with at least 2–3 years in a supervisory or managerial role
• Strong knowledge of U.S. payroll laws, regulations, and payroll tax compliance
• Proven experience with payroll audits, internal controls, and audit support
• Hands-on experience with payroll systems (e.g., ADP, Workday, SAP Payroll, Paychex) and SAP Concur
• Experience with month-end close and payroll-related accounting
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and payroll reporting tools