Payroll Associate – HR Operations

Job Description:

Job Title: Payroll Associate – HR Operations

Location : New York, NY (3 days/Week Hybrid)

Type: Contract

Job Description:

Role Overview

Our client is seeking a Payroll Associate (PF2) to join their HR Operations Payroll team. This role supports the execution of end-to-end payroll processing within an in-house SAP Employee Central Payroll (ECP) environment. The Payroll Associate will perform core payroll activities, partner with internal stakeholders, and help oversee outsourced operational support.

This position requires a detail-oriented professional who can manage routine payroll processes independently, apply sound judgment to resolve issues, and contribute to continuous process improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Processing

• Execute and support bi-weekly payroll processing in SAP Employee Central Payroll (ECP)
• Review and validate payroll data including hires, terminations, pay changes, and adjustments
• Perform payroll audits, reconciliations, and issue resolution
• Ensure payroll is processed accurately and in accordance with established timelines

Vendor & Offshore Coordination

• Provide day-to-day oversight and guidance to offshore payroll support team (Accenture)
• Review work output for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to service standards
• Manage garnishment processes in coordination with third-party vendor (Strada)
• Monitor vendor performance and ensure service level expectations are met

Employee Support & Case Management

• Respond to payroll-related inquiries through case management systems
• Partner with HR, Employee Relations, and other internal teams to resolve pay-related issues
• Ensure timely, accurate, and professional communication with stakeholders

Testing & Process Improvement

• Participate in payroll system testing (e.g., support packs, enhancements, process changes)
• Identify opportunities to streamline processes and improve efficiency
• Support implementation of automation and process improvements

Controls & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Maintain accurate documentation and support audit activities
• Collaborate with Payroll Tax team and other stakeholders as needed

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience
• 1-3 years of payroll, HR operations, or related experience
• Working knowledge of payroll systems (SAP ECP preferred)
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment
• Effective communication and problem-solving skills

Key Competencies

• Analytical thinking and attention to detail
• Accountability and ownership of work
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Ability to work with moderate guidance and exercise sound judgment
• Continuous improvement mindset