Payroll Operations Manager

Build the future, spark innovation, and align your career with purpose.

At McKinstry, we’re innovating the waste and climate harm out of the built environment and creating lasting impact. Together, we’re building a thriving planet. 
Buildings are a leading contributor to the climate crisis, generating nearly 40% of total global energy-related carbon emissions. We’re making a lasting impact on our industry and within our communities by addressing the climate, affordability and equity crises through:

• renewables and energy services
• engineering and design
• construction and facility services

To get where we’re going, we need big thinkers, problem solvers and collaborative mindsets. Does that sound like you?

The Opportunity with McKinstry

We are looking for a Payroll Operations Manager to own the high-velocity execution of our weekly construction payroll. Reporting directly to the Director of Payroll, you will have the autonomy to build, refine, and improve the processes required to manage elevated complexity with precision.

This isn't just about managing a cycle, it’s about building a scalable framework in a fast-moving, complex environment. We provide dedicated support and funding for continuous education and professional certification to help you succeed.

Why Join Us?  We are a people-first organization that treats payroll as a critical professional discipline, not a back-office afterthought. We are a company that promotes from within and invests heavily in our people. We don't just value your technical expertise—we promote and invest in it. If you are a process-driven leader who thrives in a fast-moving environment and wants a culture that actually respects the craft of payroll, let’s talk.

What You’ll Do

Oversee Complex Payroll Operations

Manage weekly payroll processing across multiple states, including union and non-union employees. Ensure compliance with collective bargaining agreements, wage and hour regulations, and jurisdictional requirements.

Drive Process Improvement and Innovation

Identify opportunities to enhance efficiency, strengthen controls, and improve accuracy. Implement technology-driven solutions and scalable processes that align payroll operations with evolving business needs.

Lead and Develop a High-Performing Payroll Team

Drive team performance through coaching, mentorship, and clear expectations. Foster a collaborative, service-oriented culture that emphasizes accountability, accuracy, and continuous development.

Partner Across the Organization

Collaborate closely with HR, Finance, Legal, and operational teams to ensure payroll practices support broader business strategies, compliance requirements, and workforce planning initiatives.

Ensure Compliance and Audit Excellence

Maintain audit readiness through strong controls and documentation. Monitor regulatory changes and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws, as well as union contract obligations.

What You Need to Succeed

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 5+ years of multi-state payroll experience (union payroll experience preferred)
• 2+ years of people leadership experience
• Deep knowledge of wage and hour compliance and multi-state payroll regulations
• Strong understanding of collective bargaining agreements and union payroll rules is highly preferred
• Experience with large-scale HCM/ERP systems (e.g., Workday, ADP, UKG, Oracle, Microsoft 365)
• Strong background in payroll accounting, financial reporting, reconciliations, and audit processes
• Experience driving process improvement and implementing payroll best practices
• Strong analytical skills to identify trends, issues, and opportunities
• Current CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) designation preferred; if not currently held, a willingness to obtain certification with company support is required.

PeopleFirst Benefits

When it comes to the basics, we have you covered:

• Competitive pay
• 401(k) with employer match and profit-sharing plan
• Paid time off and holidays
• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision with low or zero deductible options and low out of pocket maximums

People come first at McKinstry, and we go beyond the basic benefits with:

• Family formation benefits, including adoption and IVF assistance
• Up to 16 weeks paid parental leave
• Transgender inclusive benefits
• Commuter benefits
• Pet insurance
• “Building Good” paid community service time
• Learning and advancement opportunities via McKinstry University
• McKinstry Moves onsite gyms or reimbursement for remote workers

See benefit plan documents for complete details.

If you’re driven by our vision to build a thriving planet together, McKinstry is the place to build your career.

The pay range for this position is $89,010 - $151,300 per year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. A bonus may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location.

The McKinstry group of companies are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and qualified applicants without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, race, color, creed, marital status, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment including, but not limited to employment, advancement, assignment, and training. This commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity is made equally as a social responsibility and as an economic and business necessity.

McKinstry is a drug-free workplace. Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a pre-employment drug and alcohol test, complying with the requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act and a Confidentiality Agreement, in addition to successful outcomes of background and reference checks.

Applicants for this role will only be considered if they possess current US Work Authorization, and do not require employer-sponsored VISA support to begin or remain in this role. 

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