Senior Systems Analyst, Workday Data Modeling & Configuration

About the OpportunityJob SummaryThe Workday System Analyst, Data Modeling & Configuration is responsible to maintain and optimize Workday foundational data structures (supervisory orgs, job catalog, positions, cost centers, academic/administrative hierarchies).Conduct regular data audits, resolve inconsistencies, and ensure alignment across HR, Finance, and other institutional systems.Configure and maintain Workday business processes, calculated fields, condition rules and support data mappings and crosswalks.Follow established IT change control procedures, maintain documentation, ensure consistent data definitions and support testing cycles.24/7 business continuity:This role requires availability outside of traditional working hours on a rotating basis to ensure continuous operation of critical AI systems and platforms. Responsibilities include monitoring system health, responding to alerts, troubleshooting performance issues, and implementing emergency fixes as needed. The ideal candidate must be able to quickly diagnose and resolve AI system and platform incidents, prioritize issues based on business impact, and coordinate with technical teams to restore service. A strong commitment to system reliability and service continuity is essential for success in this position.Other duties as required:This role requires flexibility in performing duties outside of the primary responsibilities to support the evolving AI ecosystem at the university. The ideal candidate must be adaptable and willing to take on additional tasks or projects as required, ensuring consistent and reliable AI and platform operations. This may include assisting with knowledge management, documentation updates, user training, data preparation, or special projects related to AI system improvements. A problem-solving mindset and willingness to tackle emerging challenges are essential for thriving in this dynamic environment.Hybrid work schedule:This role is hybrid and in the office a minimum of three days a week in Boston to facilitate collaboration with both technical teams and operations staff. In-office presence enables effective coordination with support teams, direct access to infrastructure, and hands-on troubleshooting of AI systems and platforms. Physical presence is particularly important for incident response, change management activities, and cross-functional problem-solving sessions that benefit from in-person collaboration and real-time communication.*Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University is unable to work sponsor for this role, now or in the future.Minimum QualificationsEducation: Bachelor's degree in Information Systems, Business Administration, Computer Science, or related field required.Experience:3-5 years of Workday configuration experienceDemonstrated expertise with Workday HCM, Finance, and Payroll modulesBackground in higher education ERP systems strongly preferredExperience with Workday Student a plusTechnical Competencies:Expert knowledge of Workday business process configuration and optimizationProficiency with Workday tools: Business Process Framework, EIBs, Calculated Fields, Custom Reports, BIRT, Workday StudioUnderstanding of Workday data model and reporting frameworksExperience with data conversion, migration, and validation processesAbility to troubleshoot system issues and coordinate with technical teamsRequired Skills:Strong understanding of higher education business processes (academic, HR, finance)Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilitiesAbility to translate business requirements into technical solutionsStrong collaboration skills and ability to work effectively in team environmentsExcellent documentation and communication skillsStrong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple prioritiesExperience with change management and ITIL processesPreferred QualificationsWorkday Certification (HCM, Financials, or Student)Workday Pro or Partner certificationAdditional Workday module certifications (Absence, Benefits, Recruiting, Learning, Compensation)Experience with Workday Adaptive Planning or PRISM AnalyticsKnowledge of Workday Extend platform developmentFamiliarity with Agile methodologies and iterative development approachesExperience with other higher education ERPs (Banner, PeopleSoft, Oracle)Familiarity with data analytics and visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI)Key ResponsibilitiesWorkday Configuration and AdministrationConfigure and maintain business processes, notifications, and approval workflows across all Workday modulesManage organizational structures, supervisory organizations, and cost center hierarchiesAdminister custom fields, custom objects, and custom validationsConfigure and test functionality for Workday releases (bi-annual updates) and weekly service packsMaintain configuration workbooks and process documentationImplement and optimize business process definitions and routingCollaborate with functional teams (HR, Finance, Payroll, Student Services) on system requirementsLead configuration sessions for new implementations and modulesSupport business cycle configuration and system setup activities (payroll cycles, academic periods, financial periods)Manage system configuration requests through ServiceNow or ticketing systemFacilitate training for functional users and super usersBusiness Analysis and Process OptimizationConduct requirements gathering sessions with stakeholdersAnalyze current business processes and identify optimization opportunitiesDevelop functional specifications and design documentsPerform gap analysis between business requirements and system capabilitiesCreate process flow diagrams and system documentationDesign and implement custom reports and dashboardsConduct user acceptance testing (UAT) coordination and supportDevelop test scripts and testing scenariosMonitor system performance and user adoption metricsCreate business intelligence dashboards for leadership visibilitySupport data governance initiatives and data quality improvementsMaintain standard operating procedures and user guidesTechnical Support and Data ManagementCreate and maintain EIB (Enterprise Interface Builder) templates for data imports/exportsMonitor and troubleshoot EIB processes and data loadsProvide technical support for system issues and coordinate resolution with appropriate teamsTroubleshoot system errors and coordinate with Workday support as neededSupport data validation and reconciliation activitiesMaintain data quality and integrity across Workday modulesDocument technical processes and data specificationsAssist with data conversion and migration activities during implementationsStakeholder Engagement and ManagementParticipate in Workday implementation and enhancement initiativesCollaborate with project management team on deliverables and timelinesServe as subject matter expert in cross-functional teamsFacilitate requirements gathering sessions and workshops with stakeholdersSupport user story development and acceptance criteria definitionProvide input for sprint planning and backlog prioritizationConduct user training and knowledge transfer sessionsPartner with change management team on user adoption strategiesMaintain strong relationships with business stakeholders across departmentsPosition TypeInformation TechnologyAdditional InformationNortheastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit for more information.All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.Compensation Grade/Pay Type:112SExpected Hiring Range:$99,010.00 - $143,567.50With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change. #J-18808-Ljbffr Northeastern University