Colorado State University

Description of Work Unit

Colorado State University is a large land-grant research institution employing over 10,000 full and part-time faculty, exempt and non-exempt professionals, classified staff and student employees.

The University’s Human Resources Department is led by the Chief Human Resource Officer and has responsibility for wide-ranging activities including, but not limited to: all employee benefits; payroll; compensation; Human Resources service center; recruitment, employment selection and classification for State Classified personnel as well as general oversight of the State Personnel System within the University; employee relations; personnel policy development and interpretation; employee records and personnel action processing; and the human resource management information system (HRIS).

We are a department that values collegiality. Ongoing and positive interactions among Human Resources staff and with faculty, staff, and students who contribute to our department’s supportive and open culture of inquiry, as well as our commitment to collaboration and professional development.

Position Summary

The Payroll Manager plays a pivotal role in overseeing all aspects of payroll operations, including system set-ups/testing, and ensuring the timely and accurate processing of federal taxes and multi-state taxation across all 50 states and Guam. This position oversees an annual payroll of approximately $800 million and the issuing of over 20,000 W-2 forms.

In addition to managing payroll functions, this role requires an experienced strong leader to guide and mentor the payroll team, fostering a collaborative and efficient work environment.

This position will take the lead in configuring the Workday payroll system for a January 1, 2026, effective date, ensuring a seamless transition and optimal functionality.

Required Job Qualifications

Education:

• A bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, or a related degree or an equivalent combination of 4 years of education and/or professional experience in payroll, accounting or other related experience.

Payroll Experience:

• At least 7 years of progressive experience in payroll administration managing full scope payroll operations in a large organization (1000+ employees)

Team Leadership and Collaboration:

• At least 5 years of proven abilities to lead a payroll team and work cross-functionally with HR, Finance, and IT to ensure smooth operations while deploying service excellence

Regulatory Compliance Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of payroll tax laws, including federal and state requirements, and familiarity with the requirements of employees in multiple states

Experience with Payroll Systems:

• Hands-on experience with payroll software and systems, particularly in managing configurations, processing payroll and balancing accounts

Preferred Job Qualifications

Payroll Systems and Software:

• Strong Workday payroll administration experience
• Experience working with third-party payers for tax payments (ADP)
• Advanced Excel skills

Environment:

• Experience in an academic institution of higher education

Certifications:

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Attention to Detail and Accuracy:

• High level of attention to detail to ensure that payroll is processed accurately and in compliance with regulations

Strong Communication Skills:

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with employees and senior management

Problem-Solving Skills:

• Capable of troubleshooting payroll issues and resolving discrepancies quickly and efficiently

Confidentiality and Integrity:

• A strong understanding of the importance of confidentiality and data security in handling payroll information

Time Management:

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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