Payroll Manager Jobs in New York
Payroll Manager jobs in New York represent one of the most active markets in the country, with steady demand across financial services, healthcare systems, higher education, and large retail and media companies at every level from payroll coordinator through senior payroll manager. Most hiring concentrates in New York City, Buffalo, and Albany, where anchor employers such as JPMorgan Chase, NYU Langone Health, and New York Life maintain large workforce operations and process payroll across thousands of employees. The most in-demand specializations are multi-state payroll compliance, union and prevailing-wage payroll, and implementation experience with enterprise platforms such as Workday and ADP. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Payroll Manager JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 7+ Payroll Manager jobs
INTRODUCTION
University Payroll (UP) within the University Office of Human Resources (UHR) at The City University of New York (CUNY) is responsible for developing and implementing University Human Resources guidance, standards, rules, and regulations. UHR services approximately 40,000 full-time and part-time employees through the University and operates a shared university service which includes benefits, payroll, workers compensation, advisory services, and programmatic leadership.
University Payroll oversees payroll operations for both Senior and Community Colleges, each with distinct policies and practices, and is the liaison and partner to campus payroll teams and external entities such as the New York Office of the State Comptroller, New York City Financial Information Services Agency, and Office of Payroll Administration, fostering strong partnerships. UP manages complex personnel and human resources rules, regulations, and programs, while demonstrating discretion and is also responsible for formulating payroll-specific policies and actively engaging in the administration of payroll provisions within Collective Bargaining Agreements. UP is committed to ensuring accurate, timely payments to all employees, delivering exceptional customer service, and strictly adhering to CUNY and regulatory policies and guidelines.
Reporting to the University HR Operations and Services Director, the HR Payroll Manager will manage and lead a team of Payroll Coordinators to successfully achieve the mission of University Payroll. As such, the position will review, distribute, and evaluate workload among staff and make appropriate adjustments to ensure optimal efficiency.
In addition to the CUNY Title Overview information, other key duties include, but will not be limited to the following:
- Oversees, prioritizes, and organizes staff workload to ensure timely transmission and audit of pertinent data from payroll teams across the University.
- Supervises the processing of special and unique transactions in partnership with New York State and New York City, consisting of issuing refund checks, requesting replacement paychecks, and correcting duplicate payments.
- Sets and establishes objective and well-defined performance metrics to ensure optimal staff performance.
- Identifies and enhances customer service and client interactions within University Payroll by promptly adapting processes to resolve complaints; ensures staff provides high-quality customer service.
- Supervises the administration of payroll policy and Collective Bargaining Agreements for compliance; reviews and implements Collective Bargaining Agreement and New York State and New York City Payroll Bulletins for the accurate processing of payroll.
- Manages and oversees payroll audits to ensure Collective Bargaining Agreement deadlines are met throughout the multiple payroll Systems.
- Conducts a detailed analysis and audit to implement Collective Bargaining Agreements timely and accurately.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
NOTES:
- Until further notice, this position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule.
- This position is excluded from union representation.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree and six years' related experience required.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- At least three years of demonstrated supervisory experience leading and managing a payroll team.
- Experience providing payroll support in a fast-paced, large, and complex company or organization.
- Solid knowledge of federal, state and city laws and regulations impacting payroll operations.
- Knowledge of titles, classification systems, and coding structures in either NYC or NYS payroll systems.
- Strong analytical, evaluative, technical, and research skills to work with various information systems to audit payroll and create reports.
- Experience creating and running queries in NYS’ OSC PSQuery systems (PeopleSoft) and/or NYC’s CHRMS query system.
- Computer proficiency using web-based HRIS, payroll, financial and administrative systems; MS Office Suite (Access and Word) with advanced Excel knowledge; SharePoint, Dropbox, plus virtual meeting/conferencing and collaboration tools (MS Teams, Zoom).
- Detail-oriented, self-directed, and motivated with the ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a team setting with diverse staff of all levels.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple assignments and conflicting priorities and meet strict deadlines in a dynamic and demanding customer-focused environment.
- High degree of professionalism and personal integrity to maintain confidentiality.
CUNY TITLE OVERVIEW
- Prepares and distributes payrolls for full-time and part-time employees, including data and reporting management oversight for City and State payroll systems; prepares and maintains budget data vs. payroll expense records, reports and schedules.
- Oversees the supervision, preparation, and monitoring of the accuracy of various complex payroll reconciliation reports.
- Supervises and trains staff in planning and operating aspects of the University payroll operations.
- Oversees auditing and certification of all payrolls for employees University-wide.
- Oversees the implementation of payroll modifications mandated by contractual labor agreements and other mandated changes.
- Collaborates with University offices, as well as City, State and Federal agencies; maintains current knowledge of the policies and procedures set by said regulatory agencies as they impact payroll.
- Prepares mandated reports as requested by College, University, and government agencies.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
CUNY TITLE
Higher Education Associate
FLSA
Exempt
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The salary range is $83,681 - $102,408, commensurate with credentials, education, and experience.
CUNY is in the process of implementing salary schedule increases. Once implemented, salaries of eligible employees will be adjusted by 3.5% effective 9/1/26, in accordance with the terms of the PSC-CUNY collective bargaining agreement.
CUNY's benefits contribute significantly to total compensation, supporting health and wellness, financial well-being, and professional development. We offer a range of health plans, competitive retirement/pension benefits and savings plans, tuition waivers for CUNY graduate study and generous paid time off. Our staff also benefits from the extensive academic, arts, and athletic programs on our campuses and the opportunity to participate in a lively, diverse academic community in one of the greatest cities in the world.
HOW TO APPLY
For full consideration, submit a cover letter and resume online via CUNY's web-based job system, addressing how your experience and credentials meet the responsibilities and qualifications outlined.
Current CUNY employees must apply through CUNYfirst Employee Self Service using their login credentials. After you login, click the Careers tile on the Employee Self Service Menu page to view job openings.
CLOSING DATE
Open until filled.
JOB SEARCH CATEGORY
CUNY Job Posting: Managerial/Professional
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
CUNY encourages people with disabilities, minorities, veterans and women to apply. At CUNY, Italian Americans are also included among our protected groups. Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against on the basis of any legally protected category, including sexual orientation or gender identity. EEO/AA/Vet/Disability Employer.
Job ID: 32377
LOCATION
Central Office
Job Type: Full-Time
INTRODUCTION
University Payroll (UP) within the University Office of Human Resources (UHR) at The City University of New York (CUNY) is responsible for developing and implementing University Human Resources guidance, standards, rules, and regulations. UHR services approximately 40,000 full-time and part-time employees through the University and operates a shared university service which includes benefits, payroll, workers compensation, advisory services, and programmatic leadership.
University Payroll oversees payroll operations for both Senior and Community Colleges, each with distinct policies and practices, and is the liaison and partner to campus payroll teams and external entities such as the New York Office of the State Comptroller, New York City Financial Information Services Agency, and Office of Payroll Administration, fostering strong partnerships. UP manages complex personnel and human resources rules, regulations, and programs, while demonstrating discretion and is also responsible for formulating payroll-specific policies and actively engaging in the administration of payroll provisions within Collective Bargaining Agreements. UP is committed to ensuring accurate, timely payments to all employees, delivering exceptional customer service, and strictly adhering to CUNY and regulatory policies and guidelines.
Reporting to the University HR Operations and Services Director, the HR Payroll Manager will manage and lead a team of Payroll Coordinators to successfully achieve the mission of University Payroll. As such, the position will review, distribute, and evaluate workload among staff and make appropriate adjustments to ensure optimal efficiency.
In addition to the CUNY Title Overview information, other key duties include, but will not be limited to the following:
- Oversees, prioritizes, and organizes staff workload to ensure timely transmission and audit of pertinent data from payroll teams across the University.
- Supervises the processing of special and unique transactions in partnership with New York State and New York City, consisting of issuing refund checks, requesting replacement paychecks, and correcting duplicate payments.
- Sets and establishes objective and well-defined performance metrics to ensure optimal staff performance.
- Identifies and enhances customer service and client interactions within University Payroll by promptly adapting processes to resolve complaints; ensures staff provides high-quality customer service.
- Supervises the administration of payroll policy and Collective Bargaining Agreements for compliance; reviews and implements Collective Bargaining Agreement and New York State and New York City Payroll Bulletins for the accurate processing of payroll.
- Manages and oversees payroll audits to ensure Collective Bargaining Agreement deadlines are met throughout the multiple payroll Systems.
- Conducts a detailed analysis and audit to implement Collective Bargaining Agreements timely and accurately.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
NOTES:
- Until further notice, this position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule.
- This position is excluded from union representation.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree and six years' related experience required.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- At least three years of demonstrated supervisory experience leading and managing a payroll team.
- Experience providing payroll support in a fast-paced, large, and complex company or organization.
- Solid knowledge of federal, state and city laws and regulations impacting payroll operations.
- Knowledge of titles, classification systems, and coding structures in either NYC or NYS payroll systems.
- Strong analytical, evaluative, technical, and research skills to work with various information systems to audit payroll and create reports.
- Experience creating and running queries in NYS’ OSC PSQuery systems (PeopleSoft) and/or NYC’s CHRMS query system.
- Computer proficiency using web-based HRIS, payroll, financial and administrative systems; MS Office Suite (Access and Word) with advanced Excel knowledge; SharePoint, Dropbox, plus virtual meeting/conferencing and collaboration tools (MS Teams, Zoom).
- Detail-oriented, self-directed, and motivated with the ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a team setting with diverse staff of all levels.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple assignments and conflicting priorities and meet strict deadlines in a dynamic and demanding customer-focused environment.
- High degree of professionalism and personal integrity to maintain confidentiality.
CUNY TITLE OVERVIEW
- Prepares and distributes payrolls for full-time and part-time employees, including data and reporting management oversight for City and State payroll systems; prepares and maintains budget data vs. payroll expense records, reports and schedules.
- Oversees the supervision, preparation, and monitoring of the accuracy of various complex payroll reconciliation reports.
- Supervises and trains staff in planning and operating aspects of the University payroll operations.
- Oversees auditing and certification of all payrolls for employees University-wide.
- Oversees the implementation of payroll modifications mandated by contractual labor agreements and other mandated changes.
- Collaborates with University offices, as well as City, State and Federal agencies; maintains current knowledge of the policies and procedures set by said regulatory agencies as they impact payroll.
- Prepares mandated reports as requested by College, University, and government agencies.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
CUNY TITLE
Higher Education Associate
FLSA
Exempt
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The salary range is $83,681 - $102,408, commensurate with credentials, education, and experience.
CUNY is in the process of implementing salary schedule increases. Once implemented, salaries of eligible employees will be adjusted by 3.5% effective 9/1/26, in accordance with the terms of the PSC-CUNY collective bargaining agreement.
CUNY's benefits contribute significantly to total compensation, supporting health and wellness, financial well-being, and professional development. We offer a range of health plans, competitive retirement/pension benefits and savings plans, tuition waivers for CUNY graduate study and generous paid time off. Our staff also benefits from the extensive academic, arts, and athletic programs on our campuses and the opportunity to participate in a lively, diverse academic community in one of the greatest cities in the world.
HOW TO APPLY
For full consideration, submit a cover letter and resume online via CUNY's web-based job system, addressing how your experience and credentials meet the responsibilities and qualifications outlined.
Current CUNY employees must apply through CUNYfirst Employee Self Service using their login credentials. After you login, click the Careers tile on the Employee Self Service Menu page to view job openings.
CLOSING DATE
Open until filled.
JOB SEARCH CATEGORY
CUNY Job Posting: Managerial/Professional
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
CUNY encourages people with disabilities, minorities, veterans and women to apply. At CUNY, Italian Americans are also included among our protected groups. Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against on the basis of any legally protected category, including sexual orientation or gender identity. EEO/AA/Vet/Disability Employer.
Job ID: 32377
LOCATION
Central Office
Job Type: Full-Time
See All 7 Payroll Manager Jobs in New York
Find roles in New York that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Payroll Manager JobsPayroll Manager Jobs by City in New York
Where New York roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Payroll Manager Job Market in New York
A snapshot from current New York openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Via Transportation2
- City University of New York1
- Css Payroll Co, L.P1
- EY1
- Eliassen1
Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software2
- Accounting & Auditing1
- Construction & Real Estate1
- Education1
- Staffing & Recruiting1
What New York Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in payroll manager jobs across New York.
- Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, human resources, or a closely related field required
- CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) credential from the American Payroll Association strongly preferred
- Demonstrated experience managing full-cycle payroll processing for a large or multi-entity organization
- Proficiency with enterprise payroll platforms such as Workday, ADP, or Ceridian Dayforce
- Working knowledge of New York State and New York City wage, tax, and paid leave regulations
- Experience managing payroll for union employees or under prevailing-wage requirements is a frequent New York advantage
Payroll Manager Jobs in New York: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a payroll manager in New York?
Most payroll managers in New York enter through a combination of a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or human resources and several years of hands-on payroll processing experience. New York does not require a state-issued license to work in payroll, but the Certified Payroll Professional credential from the American Payroll Association is widely expected by New York employers, particularly in finance, healthcare, and large enterprises. Familiarity with New York City-specific requirements, including the City's earned safe and sick time rules and local tax filings, strengthens a candidate's profile considerably.
How much do payroll managers make in New York?
Payroll managers in New York earn a median of about $175,620 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $114,990 for the lowest 10% to over $287,490 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire payroll managers in New York?
Employers hiring payroll managers in New York right now include Via Transportation, City University of New York, and Css Payroll Co, L.P, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. New York's concentration of global financial institutions, major hospital networks, and large retail and media headquarters means consistent year-round openings for payroll professionals at multiple seniority levels.
Which New York cities have the most payroll manager jobs?
New York have the most payroll manager openings in New York. New York City dominates by volume because of its density of corporate headquarters, financial institutions, and major health systems, while Buffalo and Albany generate steady demand through regional hospital networks, state government agencies, and large manufacturers that require experienced payroll professionals to manage complex multi-site or union payrolls.
Are there remote payroll manager jobs in New York?
Yes, and more than many finance roles. About 29% of payroll manager openings tied to New York are remote or hybrid as of June 2026, reflecting the desk-based and systems-driven nature of the work. The functions most commonly offered remotely are payroll processing, compliance review, and reporting, while roles that involve close coordination with HR teams or multi-site operations more often require at least some on-site presence.
How can I get hired as a payroll manager in New York with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is a payroll specialist or payroll coordinator role at a large New York employer, particularly within healthcare systems such as Northwell Health or NYC Health and Hospitals, both of which hire at the entry level and provide structured exposure to complex multi-entity payroll environments. Lateral moves from accounts payable, HR generalist, or bookkeeping positions translate well because the compliance and data-management skills overlap. Completing the Fundamental Payroll Certification from the American Payroll Association before applying gives candidates a concrete credential that New York hiring managers recognize.
Where can I find and apply to payroll manager jobs in New York?
You can find and apply to payroll manager jobs in New York on Migrate Mate, which lists current New York openings updated in real time. Search the listings to see roles that match your experience level, location preference, and industry, then apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 7 Payroll Manager Jobs in New York
Find roles in New York that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Payroll Manager Jobs