Payroll and Benefits Manager

Job Description

Located in the heart of Central Ohio, Illuminate USA is transforming solar panel manufacturing from our cutting-edge facility in Pataskala. As a new standalone joint venture established by two global leaders in renewable energy, we’ve rapidly grown to over 1,500 associates and are now fully operational in our 1.1 million-square-foot factory. Our vision is to establish one of the largest solar panel manufacturing operations in the Western Hemisphere.

This is an exciting time to join Illuminate USA as we continue to grow and innovate. We’re not just building solar panels—we’re building a team of dedicated, passionate associates eager to make a real impact. If you’re looking to be part of a collaborative, people-focused, and forward-thinking workplace, we want to hear from you!

We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and continuous opportunities for career growth. Come join us on this journey to create a brighter, more sustainable future in the Columbus area.
 

Job Summary:

As the Payroll and Benefits Manager at Illuminate USA, you will play a pivotal role in leading the payroll function within our organization. Leveraging your expertise in payroll processing, timekeeping management, benefits administration, and tax compliance, you will contribute to the success of our company. In addition, you will serve as the primary liaison to HRIS for all payroll and benefits module functions—supporting configuration, updates, and system alignment with business needs.

Responsibilities:

· Oversee the accurate and timely processing of employee payroll on a bi-weekly or semi-monthly basis.

· Ensure precise calculations of hours worked, overtime, bonuses, and deductions.

· Supervise and review employee timekeeping records for accuracy and compliance with company policies and labor laws.

· Collaborate with HR and benefits teams to manage and update employee benefits data related to payroll.

· Serve as the liaison to HRIS for payroll and benefits modules—supporting system updates, testing, and troubleshooting.

· Ensure the accurate calculation and timely remittance of payroll taxes, including federal, state, and local deductions.

· Maintain organized and confidential payroll records, including earnings, deductions, and changes to employee information.

· Conduct regular audits and reconciliations to identify and resolve discrepancies or errors promptly.

· Oversee the payroll processes for new hires and ensure proper procedures for employee terminations.

· Prepare insightful payroll-related reports for management, finance, and HR teams, contributing to effective labor cost management and budgeting.

· Stay up-to-date with federal, state, and local labor laws and regulations, ensuring that payroll processes align with legal requirements.

· Provide excellent customer service to associates regarding payroll inquiries, resolving issues in a professional and timely manner.

Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).

· Proven experience as a Payroll Manager or in a similar managerial role, with a strong understanding of payroll processing and tax compliance.

· Experience with benefits administration and payroll system integrations.

· Proficiency with HRIS and timekeeping systems such as ADP Workforce Now and MS Excel.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.

· Ability to handle confidential information discreetly and maintain data security.

· Knowledge of relevant labor laws and regulations.

· Strong attention to detail with the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.

· Certification such as Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) is a plus.

Illuminate USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by law.

Illuminate is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.