Payroll Manager

Our restaurants are only the tip of the flame! If you’re looking for a fast-paced, innovative and welcoming workplace then a career with our Familia is right for you.

What’s in it for you!

• Hybrid work schedule (2 days a week in the office or fewer depending on the position)

• Competitive pay and bonus

• Medical + Dental + Vision Insurance

• 401(K) Plan with match and immediate vesting 
• Flexible Spending Accounts

• Vacation + Sick Pay + 12 Paid Holidays 
• Dog friendly office
• Amazing office culture

• Free El Pollo Loco food (Dine Out Card) + Restaurant Discount
• Discounts on theme parks, movie tickets, sports events, hotels and more…

POSITION PURPOSE: 

Ensure timeliness and accuracy of payroll processing for all El Pollo Loco employees.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Supervise and lead the team of payroll professionals, ensuring the accurate payroll reports that are run with standard payroll processing and timely processing of all payrolls for the company.
• Be the subject matter expert on and incorporate leading industry best practices to enhance efficiency and precision in payroll processing, establishing elevated benchmarks for operational excellence.
• Continuously lead optimization efforts around payroll function; collaborate cross-functionally with IT, Finance and Operations around the integration of payroll processes.
• Manage and ensure the documentation and maintenance of payroll policies and procedures.
• Create and manage stringent controls to prevent unauthorized access or alteration of payroll records by implementing proper segregation of duties and restricting access to sensitive data.
• Lead projects to enhance efficiencies within the payroll system, monitor payroll metrics, and assess results to pinpoint opportunities for process improvements.
• Act as a subject matter expert in strategic planning related to new or anticipated areas of technology or operational direction, as well as integrations.
• Work cross functionally in providing information and process support to internal and external audits, including those conducted by government agencies.
• Guarantee adherence to all relevant federal, state, and local laws and regulations pertaining to payroll.
• Manage the payroll relationship with the external payroll provider while maintaining stringent oversight.
• Examine, analyze, and validate payroll reports and documents for accuracy; make necessary adjustments or corrections through journal entries or other established procedures.
• Conduct year-end payroll processing, encompassing the view, balance, and audit of W-2s to ensure accuracy.
• Conduct bi-annual unclaimed property procedures for outstanding employee paychecks.
• Examine and reconcile Quarterly, Annual, and Amended Tax returns for accuracy.

QUALIFICATIONS – EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, LICENSE/CERTIFICATIONS: 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the job, with or without an accommodation.  Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.  The requirements listed below are representative of the education and/or experience required.   

Education/Work Experience: 

• Accounting or Finance degreed person is highly preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years hands-on payroll experience is required.
• Payroll software skills required.

• Strong PC skills (MS Office Suites).

License/Certifications:

Possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Strong knowledge of policies, practices and related regulations.

• Ability to communicate policies and procedures effectively through excellent verbal, written communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to exercise independent judgment and discretion in all aspects of the position.

• Excellent organizational and project management skills with a strong commitment to follow up.
• Must be able to maintain highly confidential information without compromise.
• Schedule must be flexible for long hours as needed.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Attention to details and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks.
• Must be able to meet payroll deadlines.
• Strong focus on customer service.
• Positive attitude in a team environment.

• Adapts well to changing environment.

• Use of computer and telephone.

• Bending, reaching, walking, sitting.

• Communicate effectively with employees and vendors.