Payroll Tax Lead

Location: Lake County IL 60064 (Hybrid Onsite Tue Thu Remote Mon & Fri)
Duration: 12-Month Contract

The Payroll Tax Lead is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll tax processing reporting and compliance across the organization. This role oversees payroll tax operations for the United States and Puerto Rico ensuring adherence to all federal state and local regulations.

The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in payroll tax legislation reconciliation filings and system integrations along with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally and drive process improvements.

• Ensure compliance with U.S. federal state local and Puerto Rico payroll tax regulations
• Monitor regulatory changes and implement necessary system and process updates
• Perform regular audits of payroll tax data to ensure accuracy and avoid penalties
• Reconcile payroll taxes including state withholding and unemployment taxes (monthly quarterly annually)
• Manage timely and accurate payroll tax deposits and filings
• Handle tax notices and collaborate with agencies and third-party vendors (e.g. ADP) for resolution
• Partner with internal teams and vendors to set up tax IDs (FEIN SUI) for new jurisdictions
• Oversee periodic quarterly and annual filings including amendments and corrections
• Support payroll processing activities including tax register audits and year-end reporting (W-2 etc.)
• Lead RSU vesting and year-end payroll activities
• Troubleshoot payroll tax system issues and ensure accurate calculations
• Identify and implement process improvements and automation opportunities
• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to enhance payroll operations
• Lead mentor and support a team of payroll professionals
• Manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Occasional travel may be required

• Bachelors degree in Finance Accounting Tax or related field
• 7 9 years of experience in U.S. payroll tax including Puerto Rico
• Experience handling multi-state payroll tax operations (all 50 states PR preferred)
• Strong experience with tax reconciliation filings and compliance
• Hands-on experience resolving tax notices with agencies and vendors (e.g. ADP)
• Experience in M&A environments (payroll/tax integration)
• Proficiency in ADP and Workday Payroll systems
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Office tools
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or equivalent preferred

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Continuous improvement and process optimization mindset