Payroll & Benefits Manager

Description We are looking for an experienced Payroll & Benefits Manager to oversee end-to-end payroll and benefit operations for a high-volume workforce in Illinois. This contract to hire position requires a hands-on, detail-oriented individual who can manage complex weekly and bi-weekly payroll activities, support employee benefits administration, and serve a manufacturing organization with accuracy and responsiveness. The ideal candidate is fluent in Spanish and English, brings strong knowledge of large-scale payroll processing, and is comfortable working with UKG Pro in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:

• Direct the complete payroll cycle for a large employee population, ensuring timely and accurate processing across each pay period.
• Administer payroll activities spanning multiple states while maintaining compliance with applicable wage, tax, and reporting requirements.
• Handle daily payroll operations, including review of earnings, deductions, adjustments, and resolution of payroll discrepancies.
• Partner with internal teams to provide support related to employee benefits, deductions, and payroll-related inquiries.
• Assist HR in conducting the annual 401(k) audit and Form 5500 preparation.
• Use UKG Pro and related payroll tools to maintain records, validate data, and improve efficiency in payroll administration.
• Monitor payroll controls and documentation to support audit readiness, reporting accuracy, and policy adherence.
• Collaborate with HR and management in a manufacturing setting to address workforce changes that affect payroll processing.
• Communicate clearly with Spanish-speaking and English-speaking employees regarding payroll questions, policies, and issue resolution. Requirements
• 6-8 years of relevant working experience with a comprehensive payroll & benefit process.
• Proven experience leading full-cycle payroll processing from data review through final disbursement and reconciliation.
• Background managing multi-state payroll for an employee base of more than 500 workers.
• Fluency in both Spanish and English REQUIRED, with the ability to support a bilingual workforce effectively.
• Prior experience in a manufacturing environment is ideal.
• Working knowledge of UKG Pro is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with benefits administration and payroll deductions, including coordination with HR or benefits teams.
• Strong understanding of payroll compliance, recordkeeping, and accuracy standards in a high-volume setting.

Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more. Our specialized recruiting professionals apply their expertise and utilize our proprietary AI to find you great job matches faster. All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "Apply Now," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms) and Privacy Notice (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/privacy) .