Overview:   UES is a privately held, rapidly growing engineering and consulting firm with nearly six decades of experience in geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, building code compliance, threshold inspections and environmental consulting. With more than 3,800 professionals across 80+ branches in high growth markets in the U.S., UES consults on projects of all sizes for public and private clients in industries ranging from transportation and healthcare to commercial, residential, and education.
Experienced and proven, UES is considered a pioneer of the industry and stands at the forefront of emerging technology and best practices. Our work includes public and private clients, as well as public-private partnerships, and consists of projects ranging from transportation and infrastructure to aviation and aerospace. Our engineers, geologists, certified inspectors, scientists, and drillers offer an unwavering commitment to excellence, approaching each project with the knowledge that precision, professionalism, and creative solutions are what drive success and cultivate enduring client relationships. As UES continues to grow, it’s critical that we have a defined set of values that guide us like a north star. These values need to demonstrate who we are as a company and what we believe. STRIVE stands for Safety, Teamwork, Responsiveness, Integrity, Value, and Excellence. 
We are seeking an experienced, independent, and self-starting Payroll Manager to oversee multi-state payroll processing for a workforce of approximately 4,000 employees. As a vital member of our team, you will lead and mentor a team of six payroll professionals while embracing a "coach and player" mentality. The ideal candidate thrives in a high-growth, acquisition-driven environment, is highly adaptable, and is eager to contribute to the strategic transition to a COE structure.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Oversee and manage the accurate and timely end-to-end processing of multi-state payroll for 4,000 employees across multiple locations, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing payroll team, fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment.Conduct internal audits, prepare reports, and analyze payroll metrics to identify trends and drive continuous improvement.Actively participate in payroll processing tasks, serving as both a leader and a hands-on contributor.Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, tax regulations, and company policies, including wage and hour laws, overtime, and reporting requirements.Act as a subject matter expert on payroll-related matters during acquisitions, ensuring seamless integration of new employees.Identify and implement process improvements, automation opportunities, and best practices to enhance payroll operations.Support the transition to a Center of Excellence (COE) structure by developing scalable payroll processes and systems.Manage relationships with third-party vendors, such as payroll service providers and tax agencies.Oversee year-end activities, including W-2 processing, audits, and compliance reviews.Stay up to date on industry trends, regulations, and best practices to maintain payroll accuracy and compliance.Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience).5+ years of experience in payroll management, with multi-state payroll processing experience required.Proven ability to manage and mentor a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements across multiple states.Experience in M&A environments and integrating payroll systems during acquisitions is highly desirable.Familiarity with payroll software and HRIS systems (e.g., Paycom, etc.).Exceptional attention to detail, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams and levels of the organization.A “roll-up-your-sleeves” mentality and a proactive, self-starter attitude.Preferred Skills:CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification.Experience transitioning to or managing a Center of Excellence structure.Strong project management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.MissionWe are trusted engineering partners enabling the construction community through responsive, expert problem solving.We strive to be the leading environmental, inspection, testing and engineering firm by ensuring the safety, integrity, and sustainability of our community's land, foundations, and structures from development to redevelopment.
EEOC StatementUES is committed to embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion to create a workplace that welcomes and thrives on the unique experiences, perspectives, and contributions of all team members. UES is bringing the best people and most diverse talent forward to drive growth, innovate and think bigger!

DisclaimerThis job description is not intended to list the full scope of duties and responsibilities for this position. Other duties may be assigned. Employment is "at will" meaning that employment may be ended by either the employee or Company at any time for any reason with or without notice. Any offer of employment is contingent upon the applicant successfully completing pre-employment testing for this position.
Who We Are:   UES provides essential engineering services for some of the most prominent and significant projects in the nation. Our team members, from our drillers to administrative staff, contribute directly to projects that transform communities. With some of the greatest talent in Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Materials Testing and Inspection, Code Compliance, Environmental, Occupational Health & Safety, and Building Envelope, we are committed to delivering groundbreaking solutions for our clients. At the core of our success is our team members who make it all possible. We know that the projects we deliver are only as good as our people, which is why we offer enriching opportunities for career growth at every level.   Growing in ExcellenceAs the #1 fastest growing AEC firm on The Zweig Group's Hot Firm list in 2021, UES is poised to lead our industry into the future. As we evolve from a one-man operation to a company spanning 75 branches and 3,500 employees, we’re looking for enthusiastic talent to launch their careers and grow along with us.  Why Work at UES?We value the individual contributions of our employees, and we show this through providing great benefits. Please ask your recruiter what benefits plans apply to you.  Check out our website: Follow us on social media:  |  |  |  | #GroundedInExcellence
EEO/AA/Disability/Veteran Universal Engineering Sciences is a Drug-Free Workplace. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.