Payroll Manager

Our mission is to create the Experience of a Lifetime for our employees, so they can, in turn, create the Experience of a Lifetime for our guests. We own and operate the most renowned destination resorts in the world as well as regional and local ski areas outside major cities, and connect them all through one unrivaled network. We are looking for ambitious leaders, innovators and creators to join our talented team. If you’re ready to pursue your fullest potential, we want to get to know you!

Candidates for year-round positions are reviewed on a rolling basis. Applications will be accepted up to 90 days after the posting date, or until the position is filled (whichever is first).

Job Summary

The Payroll Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and compliance of payroll processing, payroll tax, and accounting across all U.S. and Canadian entities for the company. This position serves as the senior subject matter expert (SME) for pay processing, payroll tax, accounting, and reporting activities, and is responsible for driving compliance with federal, state, provincial, and local regulations, as well as internal controls and SOX requirements. This role partners closely with internal stakeholders and external vendors, and contributes strategic insight into continuous process improvement, policy development, and operational excellence initiatives.

Job Responsibilities

• Implement, maintain, and enhance payroll systems and processes to ensure accurate and timely payroll transactions.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives to evaluate and upgrade payroll ERP functionality and case management tools.
• Participate in establishing the company’s payroll guidelines by advising management on needed actions and writing/updating policies and procedures.
• Provide subject matter expertise on payroll tax matters, including withholding, unemployment, and other employer tax obligations across U.S. and Canadian jurisdictions.
• Resolve tax discrepancies and respond to agency inquiries, audits, or notices in a timely and professional manner.
• Analyze and audit payroll results for compliance, accuracy, and reconciliation with finance systems.
• Lead internal team project work for continuous improvement while serving as a strategic contributor and SME on external team projects or enterprise-wide initiatives impacting payroll or accounting functions.
• Drive or support special/ad-hoc projects and process optimization initiatives as assigned by leadership.
• Act as SME and maintain relationships on payroll tax, accounting, and systems-related matters for internal teams including Benefits, Legal, HR Compliance, HRIS, Finance, and HR Business Partners.
• Manage, develop, coach direct reports by fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Accounting, or related field.
• Minimum of 5+ of progressive payroll experience in a multi-state, multi-entity environment; experience with Canadian payroll is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of payroll accounting, tax compliance, wage and hour regulations, and SOX/internal controls.
• Experience with payroll ERP systems (e.g., Workday, ADP, SAP) and case/ticket management platforms.
• Demonstrated success leading complex payroll projects or systems initiatives.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Proficient to intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

The expected Total Compensation for this role is $89,000 - $114,000 + annual bonus. Individual compensation decisions are based on a variety of factors.
 

Job Benefits

• Ski/Mountain Perks! Free passes for employees, employee discounted lift tickets for friends and family AND free ski lessons
• MORE employee discounts on lodging, food, gear, and mountain shuttles
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Excellent training and professional development

Full Time roles are eligible for the above, plus:

• Health Insurance; Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, and Vision Insurance plans (for eligible seasonal employees after working 500 hours)
• Free ski passes for dependents
• Critical Illness and Accident plans

Employees can work remotely from British Columbia, Washington D.C., and the 16 U.S. states* in which we currently operate. This includes: California, Colorado, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, Washington State, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Please note that the ability to work in person or off-site, and the particulars related to such work, are subject to change at any time; and, accordingly, the Company reserves the right to change its policies and/or require in-person/in-office work or off-site work at any time in its sole discretion. 

In completing this application, and when submitting related documentation, applicants may redact information that identifies their age, date of birth, and/or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution. 

We follow all federal, state, and local laws including restrictions on child/minor labor. Minors hired into this position will not be asked or permitted to engage in any activities restricted to adult workers.

Vail Resorts is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

Requisition ID  513329
Reference Date: 01/29/2026 
Job Code Function: Payroll