• Required: 3–5 years of multi-state payroll experience
• Required: Experience processing payroll in a 300+ employee organization
• Required: Associate's or bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• Strong Excel skills and experience with HR/Payroll systems (Lawson, Kronos, or similar)
• Excellent communication skills — you can explain payroll to non-payroll people clearly
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and organizational abilities
• A team-first mindset with the confidence to lead when needed
• Process bi-weekly and monthly multi-state payrolls with accuracy and on time — every time
• Own employee maintenance including direct deposits, garnishments, and record updates
• Provide hands-on support for timekeeping systems and be the resource your team relies on
• Manage the payroll inbox and respond to employee and management inquiries promptly
• Ensure full compliance with federal and state payroll laws — you stay ahead of changes so the company isn't caught off guard
• Assist with monthly, quarterly, and year-end payroll tax returns
• Lead W-2 preparation and distribution at year-end
• Collaborate with accounting on payroll-related general ledger items
• Generate reports and act as the bridge between division management and the payroll department
A well-established healthcare organization in the Knoxville area is looking for a sharp, experienced Lead Payroll Processor to take ownership of end-to-end payroll operations. This is not an entry-level role — we need someone who has been in the trenches, knows multi-state payroll inside and out, and can be the go-to expert for a 300+ employee organization.
If you're the kind of payroll professional who takes pride in getting it right every single time and wants to be valued for your expertise, this is your role.