Director of Payroll

Job Title: Director of Payroll
Location: McLean, Virginia
Type: Direct Hire
Compensation: $175,000 - $210,000
Work Model: Onsite

Director of Payroll



Overview:
We are seeking an experienced Director of Payroll to lead and oversee all aspects of payroll operations for a complex, multi-entity organization. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate and compliant payroll processing, developing internal controls, and driving continuous improvement across payroll systems and processes. The ideal candidate is a strategic leader with deep expertise in payroll compliance, systems, and team development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee full-cycle payroll processing for a multi-state and international workforce
• Establish and maintain payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations
• Manage payroll audits, reconciliations, and reporting, including quarterly and year-end filings
• Lead year-end payroll processes, including W-2 preparation and validation
• Partner with HR, Accounting, Finance, and IT to ensure accurate data integration and reporting
• Supervise, mentor, and develop payroll staff, fostering a high-performing team environment
• Manage payroll systems, including implementations, upgrades, and process improvements
• Ensure accurate handling of deductions, garnishments, leave balances, and tax reporting
• Act as the payroll subject matter expert for leadership and key stakeholders
• Support internal and external audits and compliance reviews
• Drive automation and efficiency improvements across payroll operations
• Handle complex payroll scenarios, including international employees and expatriates

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; payroll certification preferred
• 10+ years of progressive payroll experience, including leadership responsibilities
• Experience managing payroll for large employee populations (3,000+ employees)
• Strong knowledge of multi-state and international payroll regulations
• Experience with enterprise payroll systems and HRIS platforms
• Familiarity with payroll tax compliance, filings, and reporting requirements
• Experience with system implementations or transitions preferred
• Government contracting experience strongly preferred
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, and 401(k)
• Additional benefits may apply and are subject to change

System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan.

System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Ref: #208-Rowland Tulsa