Position Summary We are seeking a highly analytical and compliance-driven Multi-State Payroll Administrator to manage and execute end-to-end payroll operations for our workforce of 700+ employees . Operating a payroll of this scale requires more than just data entry; we need a seasoned expert who understands the complex web of federal, state, and local labor and tax laws across the United States and Canada. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience handling complex employee counts, automated timekeeping systems, and possesses the deep legal knowledge required to navigate multi-state tax withholding, local employee taxation, and varied state-level sick leave and final pay laws.

Key Responsibilities High-Volume Processing:

Accurately process timely, bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll cycles for 700+ hourly and salaried employees across multiple states.

Multi-State Compliance Monitoring:

Monitor, interpret, and implement local compliance adjustments including state-specific overtime laws, state income tax withholding rules, local tax nexuses, and state disability/paid family leave deductions.

Audit & Reconciliation:

Conduct regular audits of payroll data, including timecard approvals, retro-pay calculations, bonus structures, and commission allocations. Reconcile payroll totals against the general ledger.

Required Qualifications & Skills Experience:

Minimum of 4-6 years of dedicated payroll administration experience, with a proven track record of managing payroll for an organization of at least 500+ employees .

Multistate Expertise:

Deep, verifiable knowledge of multi-state payroll regulations, employment tax laws, and reciprocal tax agreements across the U.S.

Systems Proficiency:

Intermediate to advanced experience working with enterprise-level human capital management (HCM) and payroll systems (e.g., Paylocity).

Preferred Qualifications FPC or CPP Certification:

Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation through the American Payroll Association (APA) is highly preferred. Experience managing payroll inside an organization with a blended workforce of both remote W-2 workers and field operations. Canadian payroll experience is an asset. Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary ranging from $70,000 to $80,000 depending on experience. Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance. 401(k) plan Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid corporate holidays. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement Carpenter Media Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and 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. Carpenter Media Group is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to assist you in applying for a position or performing the essential functions of your job, please inform the hiring manager About Carpenter Media Carpenter Media Group is a leading North American local news champion with over 1,500 talented employees working with us to deliver unique community news and information across a full suite of traditional media channels and digital platforms. We serve as guides to efficient and effective marketing, trusted journalism and rewarding careers so our communities, businesses and the people who work with us can grow and thrive with a strong sense of purpose and resulting prosperity. To Apply please send your resume and cover letter to: Chris Hargreaves Senior Vice President and CFO chris.hargreaves@blackpress.ca Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Pay:

$33.00 - $38.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person