Payroll & Benefits Manager

A rapidly growing, well-capitalized organization in the energy space is seeking a Payroll & Benefits Manager to lead and build out its payroll and benefits function. This is a high-impact role responsible for bringing payroll in-house, leading a UKG implementation, managing benefits administration, and ensuring compliance across a dynamic and scaling workforce.

Salary: $150,000 with bonus & LTIP

Payroll & Benefits Manager – Why This Role

• Opportunity to lead a UKG implementation and build payroll in-house
• High visibility with leadership and cross-functional teams
• Fast-growing organization with strong long-term upside
• Competitive compensation + bonus and long-term incentives

Payroll & Benefits Manager – What We’re Looking For

• Polished, professional presence with strong communication skills
• Proactive, hands-on mindset with the ability to “roll up sleeves”
• Adaptability and comfort in a rapidly evolving environment
• Strong attention to detail with a process improvement mindset
• Collaborative team player with a sense of ownership

Payroll & Benefits Manager – Key Responsibilities

• Own and manage the end-to-end payroll process, including leading the implementation and optimization of UKG (or similar payroll systems)
• Lead the transition of payroll operations from a PEO to an in-house model
• Process high-volume, multi-state payroll, including nonexempt and field-based employees
• Oversee and administer employee benefits programs (health, retirement, etc.), partnering closely with external brokers
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll and benefits regulations
• Maintain and improve payroll and benefits processes, controls, and reporting
• Serve as a key liaison between HR, Finance, and Operations
• Support audits, reporting, and continuous process improvement initiatives

Payroll & Benefits Manager – Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in payroll and benefits administration, with increasing ownership
• Proven experience leading or heavily supporting a payroll system implementation (UKG strongly preferred)
• Hands-on experience with high-volume payroll environments
• Experience working in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
• CPP certification or equivalent is a plus
• Bachelor’s degree preferred (not required with relevant experience)