Payroll Manager

Manage end-to-end payroll operations for a multi-state or global workforce, ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing, tax compliance, and regulatory reporting. Oversee payroll system configuration, manage payroll team, resolve complex payroll issues, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax laws. Partner with HR, finance, and legal teams on compensation changes, equity awards, and international payroll requirements.

Median salary: $100,000. Projected growth to 2033: 5% (as fast as average) - steady demand across all industries. Typical education: Bachelor's Degree.

At a glance

Median salary: $100,000
Entry-level: $65,000 - $82,000
Senior: $148,000+
Growth by 2033: 5% (as fast as average) - steady demand across all industries
Demand: Stable
Remote: Hybrid
Hours per week: 40-50 hours/week
Stress: High

What you'd do

People interaction: Moderate
Team vs solo: 55% Team / 45% Solo
Client facing: Sometimes
Impact visibility: High

How to get there

Minimum education: Bachelor's Degree
Licensing: No
Years to mid-career: 3-5 years
Years to senior: 7-10 years
Career switching: Moderate
Typical student debt: $20,000 - $45,000

Skills you'll use

Hard skills

Multi-State Payroll Processing (ADP / Workday / Ceridian)
Federal & State Payroll Tax Compliance
W-2 & 1099 Reporting
Equity Award Payroll Processing (RSU / ESPP)
Global Payroll Coordination
Payroll Audit & Reconciliation

Soft skills

Attention to Detail
Regulatory Knowledge
Organizational Skills
Problem-Solving
Team Leadership

Technical complexity: Moderate

Typical career path

Payroll Specialist
Senior Payroll Specialist
Payroll Manager
Director of Payroll
VP of Payroll