Senior Manager, Payroll in Staten Island, New York at TUNNEL TO TOWERS FOUNDATION

The mission of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation is to honor the sacrifice of firefighter Stephen Siller who laid down his life to save others on September 11, 2001. We also honor our military and first responders who continue to make the supreme sacrifice of life and limb for our country. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation is committed to eradicating homelessness amongst our veterans.

The Payroll Senior Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of payroll operations to ensure accurate and timely compensation for employees. This role requires a hands-on approach, compliance expertise, and strategic oversight to improve payroll processes and systems. Works closely with the Director, Payroll and HR Operations team to maintain payroll data integrity and deliver a reliable, employee-centered payroll experience.

Duties and responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation and processing of weekly payroll for all employees.
• Review and validate payroll data, including hours worked, deductions, and adjustments.
• Ensure payroll is processed accurately and on schedule.
• Maintain and update employee payroll records in the HRIS/payroll system.
• Ensure accuracy of employee data, including compensation, tax status, and direct deposit information.
• Process employee changes such as new hires, terminations, promotions, and pay adjustments.
• Assist in ensuring compliance with federal, New York State, and NYC payroll and wage laws.
• Support preparation of payroll reports, audits, and required filings.
• Maintain payroll documentation in accordance with recordkeeping requirements.
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding payroll, deductions, and pay discrepancies in a timely and professional manner.
• Research and resolve payroll-related issues in coordination with the Director, Payroll.
• Provide clear communication and guidance to employees and managers.
• Work closely with HR Operations, Finance, and HR Operations teams to ensure accurate and consistent payroll inputs.
• Support Finance with payroll-related reconciliations and reporting.
• Assist in year-end processes, including W-2 preparation and distribution.
• Support the ongoing maintenance and optimization of payroll systems.
• Assist with system testing, upgrades, and process improvements.
• Identify opportunities to improve payroll accuracy, efficiency, and employee experience.
• Handle sensitive payroll and employee information with a high degree of confidentiality and professionalism.
• Follow internal controls and procedures to ensure payroll accuracy and safeguard data.

Qualifications

• Minimum of Bachelor Degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of payroll, HR, or related administrative experience.
• Experience supporting payroll in an organization of similar size or complexity preferred.
• Experience in nonprofit or multi-state payroll environments is a plus
• Basic knowledge of payroll processes, wage and hour laws, and payroll compliance requirements.
• Experience with payroll and/or HRIS systems (e.g., ADP, Workday, UKG, Paylocity).
• Strong attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy in data entry and processing.
• Ability to identify discrepancies and resolve issues proactively.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to respond to employee inquiries with professionalism, clarity, and empathy.
• Service-oriented approach to supporting employees and internal stakeholders.
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and collaborative.
• Willingness to learn and grow within HR/payroll operations.
• Commitment to the organization’s mission and values.
• Experience in NYC-based organizations or familiarity with local payroll regulations.
• Exposure to multi-state payroll processes.
• Payroll certification (e.g., FPC) is a plus but not required.
• SHRM-SCP, SPHR, or equivalent HR certification.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office/ Google Suite (or equivalent).
• Pre-employment screening, including a background check, is required.

Working conditions

Special working conditions may include: a change in days worked, shift hours, and/or working conditions (outdoors or other locations) when participating and assisting in special events needed. Willingness to travel (25%).