Workday Payroll Configuration Analyst

Title:Workday Payroll Configuration AnalystKBR is looking for a Workday Payroll Configuration Analyst to report to the HRIS leadership team this position will play a key role in configuring, supporting, and optimizing the Workday platform across multiple functional areas. This role’s emphasis will be on the payroll module to support critical payroll operations and compliance requirements, and it will operate as a cross-functional Workday partner, contributing to the ongoing configuration, enhancement, and support of other modules as needed (e.g., HCM, Recruiting, Absence).The Workday Payroll Configuration Analyst will translate payroll and business requirements into scalable Workday solutions, blending technical configuration with functional expertise to ensure accurate payroll execution, maintain data integrity, and drive continuous platform improvement throughout the year.Key Responsibilities:Workday Configuration (Payroll)Serve as a hands-on configuration expert across Workday, with a strong focus on Payroll—designing, building, and maintaining earnings, deductions, payroll calculations, and pay groups in alignment with business and regulatory requirements—while also supporting configuration across Core HCM, Recruiting, Absence, and related modules to ensure cohesive, compliant, and scalable system design aligned with business needsPayroll Cycle Support Partner with Payroll teams to support payroll processing activities, ensuring system readiness, accuracy, and timely issue resolutionPayroll Process / Business Process OptimizationPartner with Payroll and People teams to design and enhance business processes and system functionality across Workday, ensuring alignment with operational and compliance needsSystem Enhancements & ReleasesSupport Workday releases, including impact analysis, payroll-specific testing, and deployment of new functionalityReporting & ComplianceDevelop and maintain payroll reports, audit controls, and data extracts to support compliance, reconciliations, and reporting requirementsIntegrations SupportAssist with monitoring and troubleshooting payroll-related integrations (e.g., tax agencies, custom integrations for benefit vendors)Data Integrity & AuditsEnsure accuracy and consistency of set-up data through audits, reconciliations, and adherence to governance standardsStakeholder CollaborationPartner with Payroll and business teams to gather requirements, troubleshoot issues, and deliver effective Workday solutionsUser Support & DocumentationManage the Workday Help support queue as Tier 2 support across all functional areas; triage, investigate, and resolve issues with appropriate urgency while providing clear communication to end usersDevelop and maintain knowledge base documentation and training materialsCompliance & ControlsSupport adherence to payroll regulations, tax requirements, audit standards, and Workday security protocolsMass Data LoadsPlan, coordinate and execute high-volume data loads using EIBs across multiple functional areasQualifications:Bachelor’s degree in information systems, computer science, data analytics, business administration, or a related field required8 + years of experience in Compensation, HRIS, IT, or HR technology environments supporting enterprise systemsHands-on experience required in Workday Compensation moduleProficient in compensation cycles (e.g., ASR, bonus planning) within Workday or similar systemsDemonstrated hands-on expertise configuring Workday Compensation, Advanced Compensation and HCM Modules with deep knowledge of business process frameworks, security model, and reporting; able to independently design, build, and deploy complex configurationsProven track record of delivering scalable Workday solutions, with extensive experience actively configuring and optimizing system functionality across modulesStrong understanding of compensation processes (e.g., merit increases, promotions, bonuses, salary structures)Workday reporting tools (e.g., Advanced, Matrix, Composite reports) and data analysis experienceExpertise supporting Workday releases, testing cycles (UAT), and defect resolutionStrong attention to detail with a focus on data accuracy, system reliability, and process improvementAbility to translate business requirements into technical configurations and system solutionsStrong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work across functional teamsProven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and operate effectively in a fast-paced environmentStrong problem-solving and analytical skills with a growing ability to see interdependencies across modulesTroubleshoot complex system and data issues and the ability to communicate technical concepts in a business-friendly wayCommitment to continuous learning and staying current on Workday functionality and best practicesPreferred:Workday Pro Certification(s) in Payroll with a focus in US, UK, and/or AU specific payroll knowledgeWe are KBRWhen you become part of our KBR team, your opportunities are endless. Through internal collaboration, and with our partners and customers, we’re defining tomorrow’s challenges, then providing the innovative solutions to overcome those challenges, always maintaining our commitment to Zero Harm and our Sustainability Platform.Working with us means being rewarded for your contributions. In addition to competitive benefits and professional development, our people are empowered to use all their potential, creating meaningful change for themselves and our clients. We attract the best minds in the world because our expertise thrives on creativity, resourcefulness and collaboration. That is how we supply our clients with cutting-edge solutions.As the needs of the world change, we’re ready to respond and guide the way forward with strategic, sustainable, and technological advancements grounded in more than a century of practical application and execution.Belong, Connect and Grow at KBRAt KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team’s philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver – Together. KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.SummaryLocation: Houston, TexasType: Full time