Payroll Tax Lead

The Fountain Group is currently seeking a Payroll Tax Lead for a prominent client of ours. This position is located in Lake County, IL . Details for the position are as follows: Position Title: Payroll Tax Lead Contract Duration: 1-Year Assignment Location: Lake County, Illinois Work Schedule: Hybrid – Onsite Tuesday through Thursday; Remote Monday & Friday Pay Rate: $60-70/HR W2 Position Overview The Tax Analyst, also referred to as the Payroll Tax Lead, is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll tax processing, reporting, and compliance across U.S. and Puerto Rico operations. This role requires deep expertise in payroll tax regulations, strong analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate across teams to enhance processes and maintain compliance. Key Responsibilities Ensure compliance with U.S. federal, state, local, and Puerto Rico payroll tax regulations Process and reconcile payroll tax liabilities (monthly, quarterly, annually) Manage payroll tax filings, amendments, and year-end reporting activities Audit payroll tax registers and resolve discrepancies or compliance issues Monitor tax notices and partner with agencies and vendors (e.g., ADP) for resolution Support payroll processing activities for U.S. and Puerto Rico Lead RSU vesting and year-end payroll processes Apply for and manage tax IDs (FEIN, SUI) in new jurisdictions Troubleshoot payroll tax system issues and calculation errors Identify and implement process improvements and automation opportunities Collaborate with internal stakeholders and cross-functional teams Lead and mentor payroll team members Support M&A-related payroll tax activities as needed Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Tax, or related field 7–9 years of payroll tax experience (U.S. and Puerto Rico) Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or equivalent preferred Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll tax laws Experience handling multi-state payroll (all 50 states + Puerto Rico) Proven experience with payroll tax reconciliation and filings for large organizations (multiple company codes) Technical Skills Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word Hands-on experience with: ADP payroll systems Workday Payroll Integration with third-party applications Strong data analysis and reporting capabilities Preferred Skills Experience handling tax notices and agency communications Exposure to M&A payroll tax scenarios Process improvement and automation experience Strong project management skills Soft Skills Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities Strong attention to detail and accuracy Effective written and verbal communication skills Ability to work independently and in a fast-paced environment Strong collaboration and stakeholder management skills Customer-focused mindset with a drive to exceed expectations Travel Requirements Minimal travel may be required Additional Information This role is ideal for a highly experienced payroll tax professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and is passionate about compliance, accuracy, and continuous improvement. J-18808-Ljbffr