Payroll & Benefits Manager

In compliance with applicable pay transparency requirements, the application window for this position is expected to close on July 31, 2026, subject to change based on business need. A Day in the Life and the Impact You’ll Make: The Payroll \& Benefits Manager owns U.S. and Canada payroll operations and leads our employee benefits programs end to end. This role partners with our payroll vendor to ensure accurate, compliant, on\-time payroll, while directing benefits strategy, vendor relationships, and compliance across both countries. What You’ll Do: Safety Actively contribute to a culture of safety and health by demonstrating accountability, communication, and oversight in the following key areas: Strategic Alignment, Accountability, Performance Monitoring, Reports, Communication \& Engagement, Incident Management, and Corrective Actions. Payroll Manage weekly and bi\-weekly payroll across 6 pay groups in the U.S. and Canada, including varying pay codes, pay rules, commissions, bonuses, and tip reporting. Direct the payroll vendor relationship to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant processing; review and validate reports, resolve discrepancies, and maintain payroll records. Conduct internal audits to ensure data integrity, accurate processing, and quality reporting. Ensure compliance with multi\-state U.S. and multi\-province Canadian payroll regulations, including FLSA overtime rules and statutory pay requirements. Lead year\-end payroll activities (W\-2s, T4s) and drive ongoing improvements to payroll processes and controls. Partner with HR, Finance, and the payroll vendor to manage payroll\-related inquiries, adjustments, and reporting. Benefits Own the strategy, design, and administration of all benefits programs: medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k)/retirement, and voluntary benefits. Manage benefits vendors, brokers, and third\-party administrators; lead annual open enrollment from planning through execution. Ensure compliance with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and Canadian benefits regulations; oversee eligibility, enrollment, and life\-event changes. Reconcile benefits billing and payroll deductions; serve as the primary escalation point for employee benefits issues. Own all employee leaves of absence, including FMLA, STD, Paid Parental Leave, and other leave types. Serve as administrator for supplemental employee benefit programs. Compliance \& Reporting Maintain payroll and benefits policies and procedures and support internal and external audits. Other duties as assigned What You’ll Bring: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience). 5\+ years of experience in payroll and benefits administration, including multi\-state U.S. payroll and Canadian payroll exposure. Experience working with external payroll vendors (or similar payroll provider) in a coordinated processing model. Strong knowledge of 401(k) plan administration and U.S. benefits regulations; familiarity with Canadian benefits is highly preferred. Demonstrated experience managing multiple payroll cycles and complex pay group structures. High attention to detail with strong analytical and problem\-solving skills. Ability to manage confidential information with discretion. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills. Preferred Qualifications CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or CEBS certification. Experience in a multi\-entity or multi\-national organization. Familiarity with HRIS and benefits administration platforms. Key Competencies Ownership \& accountability Accuracy and attention to detail Regulatory and compliance expertise Process improvement mindset Collaboration and vendor management Produce and analyze payroll and benefits reporting for leadership and Finance. Physical Considerations: Ability to work in a general office environment Ability to handle extended periods of computer\-based work, including telephone Ability to work flexible and long hours, as needed Travel Considerations: Domestic and/or international travel required, estimated up to 15% What You’ll Receive for the Value You Bring: Compensation: The base pay range for this position is $90,000 annually to $110,000 annually. This position is designated as bonus eligible, subject to plan terms and conditions. Actual pay is based on several factors including market location and position\-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Benefits: DEKRA North America strives to provide a competitive benefits package to colleagues and promotes physical, emotional, and financial well\-being. Colleagues can self\-select from our benefits to create a package unique to their needs. These benefits include access to competitive health care and retirement benefits, paid time off, mental health well\-being resources, and opportunities to learn and develop. Below is a list of benefits we offer our colleagues: Health \& Well\-being Benefits: Health care benefits: medical \& prescription, dental, vision (including Domestic Partners) Critical Illness \& Hospital Indemnity supplemental insurance Company Health Savings Account contribution Flexible Spending Account for eligible health care and dependent care expenses Paid time off such as vacation, sick leave, and floating holidays Mental and emotional support resources through our Employee Assistance Program Wellness Program to increase activity and health habits, with ability to earn participation rewards Paid Parental Leave Travel Assist (Domestic/International) Financial Benefits: Participation in a 401(k) plan, with an employer match Company paid Short\- \& Long\-Term Disability benefits Group term life insurance with options to buy\-up for self and others Working Advantage – DEKRA’s official corporate discount program Growth and Development Benefits: Education Assistance Program Student Loan Repayment Assistance Internal training and development resources to grow your career Annual Career Goal Setting and Performance Review cycle participation This list provides an overview of benefits provided for US\-based colleagues; the DEKRA North America Employee Benefits Guide outlines plan details and further related eligibility requirements. Additional Position Details: Reports to: VP Human Resources, Americas Work Model: Hybrid Work Location: Atlanta, GA Headquarters / Hybrid Supervises Others: Yes Status: Full\-time; Regular FLSA Classification: Exempt Visa Sponsorship Eligibility: This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship. About Us: As a global provider of comprehensive services and solutions, we help our customers improve their safety, security, and sustainability outcomes. DEKRA is the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification (TIC) companies offering innovative professional services in the fields of vehicle inspection, expert appraisals, industrial product testing \& certification, management system certifications, leadership consulting, and much more. DEKRA is a purpose\-driven organization with a deep passion to make the world a safer place on the road, at work, and at home. In DEKRA, you will be part of a continuously growing organization with a 100\-year history involved in more than 50 countries on five continents. We hope you’ll consider a career with DEKRA North America as we strive to become the Global Partner for a Safe World! DEKRA North America is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. DEKRA North America is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or accommodation while seeking employment, call \+1 (770\) 971\-3788\. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case\-by\-case basis. DEKRA North America will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay. DEKRA North America participates in the E\-Verify program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States.*