Payroll Manager
Location: Roseville, MN (Hybrid, 3 days/week onsite)
Compensation: $100,000–$110,000 base + STI bonus + full benefits
SkyWater is proud to partner with a fast-growing, private equity-backed science and technology services organization serving Fortune 500s, government agencies, and biotech innovators. Founded in the late 1970s, this U.S.-based firm has scaled to over 5,000 employees through organic growth and strategic acquisitions. With a mission rooted in scientific integrity, operational excellence, and continuous improvement, they’re expanding their HR function—and this Payroll Manager role is a key part of that journey.
Why You’ll Join:
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Be the subject matter expert leading payroll for a large, multi-state workforce spanning nearly all 50 states
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Partner closely with HR, Finance, and business leaders to ensure smooth, compliant operations
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Join a collaborative and values-driven culture that champions accuracy, transparency, and continuous improvement
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Contribute to high-impact work in a growing company with a strong Life Sciences division and national footprint
What You’ll Do:
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Lead all aspects of payroll for 5 FEINs and both weekly/bi-weekly cycles
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Oversee and develop payroll staff (1 direct report); provide coaching, performance management, and support
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Own Workday payroll system oversight, compliance, auditing, and process documentation
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Navigate complex tax matters, post-acquisition integrations, and state-by-state compliance issues
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Serve as the internal payroll go-to for escalations, system integrity, vendor management, and HRIS enhancements
What We’re Looking For:
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4+ years of payroll leadership in a multi-state environment (preferably nearly all 50 states)
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Proven experience with payroll tax, auditing, compliance, and post-acquisition payroll transition
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Proficiency in Workday (required) and ADP backend exposure
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Ability to manage both strategic projects and hands-on execution in a high-volume setting
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Strong communicator with a collaborative mindset and a sharp eye for process improvement
If you’re qualified and interested in this position, feel free to apply, or reach out to Danielle Smith, directly at DSmith@skywatersearch.com
