Payroll Tax Manager

First Student - Cincinnati, OH

Full-time - Mid Level

Cincinnati, OH

10,001+ employees

Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation

About the position

The Payroll Tax Manager at First Student is responsible for overseeing all payroll functions, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in payroll calculations and payments. This role includes full supervisory responsibilities for recruitment, hiring, retention, performance management, and team development, while also collaborating with HRIS to enhance the HCM system's functionality.

Responsibilities

• Establish a standardized payroll approval process for payroll calculations and reconciliations, including earnings, bonuses, and commissions, while driving ongoing efficiencies.
• Develop policies and procedures to ensure payroll compliance across multiple states.
• Maintain HR and payroll data integrity through queries, data analysis, and audits.
• Manage special requests from executives and HR, including complex bonus and stock distributions.
• Ensure regulatory compliance, preparing necessary reports (EEOC, Bureau of Labor Statistics, etc.) while staying updated on relevant laws.
• Partner with Legal to address employee compliance and serve as the payroll contact for legal cases.
• Review and recommend improvements for payroll, benefits, and tax procedures.
• Prepare regular management reports (weekly, monthly, quarterly, and year-end) on payroll metrics.
• Resolve discrepancies in payroll accounting and reporting promptly.
• Provide customer service via phone and email to address payroll issues.
• Coach and develop payroll team members, ensuring cross-training within the department.
• Ensure compliance with SOX and internal controls.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience; CPP certification preferred.
• Minimum of seven years of payroll experience in a multi-state environment, with knowledge of relevant laws and accounting practices.
• Ability to manage detailed tasks and big-picture projects effectively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, capable of engaging diverse audiences.
• Proven experience working collaboratively across functions and building positive relationships within the organization.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits including physical and mental health initiatives, medical/dental/vision, 401(k), and paid holiday/vacation.
• Opportunities for professional advancement with a strong presence across North America.
• Extensive training in safety and security, injury prevention, technology and equipment, and job efficiency.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
• Community service opportunities that positively impact the community.