Contract Payroll Processor

At Ember Lab, our goal is to create powerful, transformative experiences that impact people for a lifetime. Having released our debut game, Kena: Bridge of Spirits, in 2021 this journey is just beginning. We’re looking for collaborative team members who share our passion for storytelling and are eager to help us shape the future of Ember Lab.

We manage U.S. payroll internally and utilize an Employer of Record (EOR) for international team members. We’re looking for a Payroll Processor to lead payroll operations, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and efficiency in our payroll processes.

• Oversee end-to-end monthly payroll processing for U.S. employees using QuickBooks Desktop.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state payroll laws and regulations; recommend and implement best practices.
• Manage payroll deductions, liability payments, and all required tax filings (monthly, quarterly, and annual) for federal and state jurisdictions including CA, MA, OK, and NY; prepare and file W-2s.
• Prepare journal entries to allocate monthly payroll costs to appropriate general ledger accounts and job cost centers.
• Administer employee benefits and reconcile prepaid benefits on a monthly basis.
• Manage retirement plan contributions and prepare year-end census reports to support 401(k) compliance and profit-sharing activities.
• Collaborate with Finance and HR teams to enhance payroll processes and reporting efficiency.
• Maintain accurate payroll records and support audits and reconciliations.
• Respond to and resolve employee payroll-related inquiries and escalations.
• Coordinate with the Employer of Record (EOR) provider to manage international payroll operations.

• 5+ years of experience in U.S. payroll administration.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. payroll systems.
• Experience managing multi-state payroll and understanding payroll tax laws.
• Familiarity with international payroll via EOR providers.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience working in gaming, tech, or a startup environment is a plus.

Location: Remote (U.S. based)
Employment Type: Contract ~20 hours a month
Salary Range:  $40-$55/hr