Payroll Lead

Payroll Lead for Growing Fintech Company Job Description The Payroll Lead will oversee end-to-end payroll operations across multiple entities in a dynamic fintech environment. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate and compliant payroll processing across 26 states while serving as a key resource for troubleshooting complex payroll issues and driving process improvements. Responsibilities Manage full-cycle payroll for a multi-entity organization across 26 states. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations. Act as the subject matter expert for payroll tax and compliance matters. Troubleshoot and resolve complex payroll discrepancies and system issues. Partner with HR, Finance, and external vendors to support payroll operations. Maintain and audit payroll data for accuracy and integrity. Support process improvements and system optimization within Workday. Assist with audits, reporting, and regulatory filings. Mentor and support payroll team members as needed. Essential Skills 5+ years of experience in complex payroll environments. Strong multi-state payroll experience required. Hands-on experience with Workday payroll. Deep understanding of payroll tax and compliance regulations. Proven ability to troubleshoot payroll issues and drive resolutions. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience supporting multi-entity organizations preferred. CPP certification highly preferred. Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills. Ability to manage competing priorities in a high-volume environment. Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills. Process improvement mindset. Work Environment The position operates within a Monday to Friday schedule with standard hours. The role requires on-site presence three days a week, with Monday and Tuesday being crucial due to payroll processing on Wednesday. The work environment is team-driven, offering direct exposure to senior leadership and cross-functional collaboration across the business. The role sits within the accounting team and provides an opportunity for personal development and long-term growth within the organization. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chicago, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $38.00 - $46.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a hybrid position in Chicago,IL. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 9, 2026. About Aston Carter Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing double diamond winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email ... for other accommodation options. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.