Payroll Manager

Castellum Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) is a technology company focused on leveraging the power of information technology to help solve our Nation's most pressing national security challenges. We provide US government and commercial clients with Cybersecurity, Software Development, Systems Engineering, Information / Electronic Warfare, Program Support, and Data Analytics services. We also offer subject matter expertise in artificial intelligence / machine learning, 5G technologies, model-based systems engineering, program management, information assurance, intelligence analysis, and CMMC compliance. In addition to constantly innovating and enhancing our organic capabilities, Castellum is executing strategic acquisitions of firms that share our passionate commitment to US national security and have a history of bringing exceptional value to their clients.

As Castellum invests in firms that share our passion, we strive to invest in our people. We know that every employee counts and our overall success is a combined effort, as such we aim to provide opportunities for our employees to learn, grow and flourish. We offer comprehensive benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, Federal holidays, 401(k) matching, tuition reimbursement, company paid trainings, and “Above and Beyond” recognition.

Position Summary

The Payroll Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of multi-entity payroll operations across Castellum and its subsidiaries. This role ensures accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing while maintaining strong internal controls, supporting audits, and continuously improving payroll processes. The Payroll Manager partners closely with Accounting, HR, Finance, and external service providers to ensure payroll accuracy, regulatory compliance, and scalability as the company grows.

Education/Certification Requirement:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field preferred
• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) designation strongly preferred

Education Substitution:

• Relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.

Responsibilities:

• Manage and oversee end-to-end payroll processing for all employees across multiple legal entities and states
• Ensure payroll is processed accurately, timely, and in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
• Review and approve payroll registers, payroll tax filings, and related journal entries
• Maintain payroll records including earnings, deductions, benefits, garnishments, and taxes
• Ensure compliance with FAR, DFARS, DCAA, and other government-contracting payroll requirements, as applicable
• Coordinate payroll tax filings, reconciliations, and year-end activities including W-2s and state filings
• Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll audits, internal reviews, and external inquiries
• Partner with HR and Accounting to ensure accurate employee setup, benefits deductions, and general ledger integration
• Lead payroll-related aspects of acquisitions, including system integration, data conversion, and process harmonization
• Develop, document, and enhance payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, automation, and scalability of payroll processes
• Supervise, mentor, and develop payroll staff as applicable
• Maintain strict confidentiality of payroll and employee information
• Support general accounting activities and cross-functional initiatives as needed

Minimum Required Experience and Qualifications:

• 5+ years of progressive payroll experience, including payroll management or leadership responsibility
• Hands-on experience administering payroll through ADP platforms (e.g., ADP Workforce Now or similar), including payroll processing, reporting, tax filings, and system integrations
• Demonstrated experience managing multi-state payroll and payroll tax compliance
• Strong working knowledge of payroll systems and integrations with accounting platforms
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• High degree of initiative with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, growing organization
• Experience in government contracting or highly regulated environments preferred

The successful candidate must meet eligibility requirements to access sensitive information, which requires US citizenship.

Castellum offers an excellent compensation package including salary commensurate with experience and benefits to meet your needs for today and the future. Castellum and its subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.