Payroll Manager

JOB TITLE: Payroll Manager 

LOCATION: Rancho Bernardo Inn 

DEPARTMENT: Finance/Accounting

REPORTS TO: Director of Finance/Regional Controller 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

ESSENTIAL PURPOSE: The Payroll Manager is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of multi-property payroll, the integrity of all payroll data, and the leadership of the payroll team. This role requires a strategic thinker with deep expertise in payroll regulations, particularly within the state of California, and a proven ability to manage systems, lead training initiatives, and ensure full compliance. The ideal candidate will be a subject matter expert in UKG Ready (or UKG Pro) and act as the primary point of contact for all payroll-related matters.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Payroll Processing & Operations: 

• Lead bi-weekly payroll processing for all properties (Hotels & Golf).
• Transmit payroll after a full audit of all files, including pay previews, adjustments, and manual input.
• Manage and process final paychecks, manual checks, and stale-dated checks in compliance with state regulations, with emphasis on California’s strict final pay requirements.
• Oversee garnishments, direct deposits, wage attachments, and employee deductions.
• Prepare and upload payroll files, calculate payroll previews, and correct timekeeping exceptions.
• Reconcile payroll funding

Compliance, Auditing & Reporting:

• Based on California Labor Law, ensuring all practices regarding overtime, meal and rest periods, reporting pay, and final wages are fully compliant.
• Conduct regular audits of new hires, terms, LOA (Leave of Absence), job codes, and pay rates in UKG to ensure data integrity.
• Prepare and distribute key monthly, quarterly, and year-end reports.
• Manage all aspects of payroll tax reconciliation and external audits.
• Perform balance sheet reconciliations related to payroll accounts.
• Complete month-end closing activities, including Workers Compensation accruals, vacation accruals, and intercompany billing.

Systems Management & Training:

• Act as the UKG System Lead, overseeing system configuration, updates, and troubleshooting.
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for all payroll processes.
• Conduct comprehensive payroll training for hotel and golf operations managers, new hires, and the payroll team on UKG, Kronos Timekeeping, and company policies.
• Lead new system implementations and integrations, including transitions for new properties (e.g., Golf & Hotel transitions).
• Manage UKG support cases and serve as the primary liaison with the vendor.

Team Leadership & Collaboration:

• Manage, mentor, and develop the payroll team, fostering a culture of accuracy and continuous improvement.
• Partner closely with HR to audit terms and new hires, terminate auto-deductions, and ensure seamless data flow between HRIS and payroll systems (HRSD
• Transfer).
• Collaborate with department heads and the Regional Controller on labor reporting, forecasting, and budget-related payroll inquiries.
• Participate in labor meetings and conduct property visits to ensure labor standards are being met.

UNIVERSAL EXPECTATIONS:

• To follow all policies and procedures of JC Resorts LLC.
• To immediately report all suspicious occurrences and hazardous conditions.
• To maintain the cleanliness of work areas. 
• To practice safe work habits at all times.
• To attend all mandatory meetings as directed.
• To effectively manage conflict and maintain professional relationships and communications.
• To perform other tasks as directed.

QUALIFICATIONS:  

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field preferred. 

Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in payroll management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role. Extensive and demonstrable experience with California payroll law and compliance. Hospitality or hotel industry a plus.

Languages: English required; Spanish helpful

Licenses/Certifications: NA

Vehicles/Machinery: California driver’s license and ability to drive a car preferred 

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS: Demonstrated kn