Payroll Analyst

Job Title

Payroll Analyst

Job Description

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Analyzes, audits, reconciles and resolves complex payroll processing and employee payroll issues to ensure smooth payroll processing. Ensures payroll reporting and payments are compliant with company policy, generally accepted accounting principles, and federal, state and IRS regulations. Researches and interprets federal and state regulatory requirements and resolves tax, withholding, garnishment, and wage/hour issues for payroll processing. Responds to auditing and regulatory inquiries. May work with system programmers to achieve solutions or administer company payroll system with outside service provider.

Role & Responsibilities

• Load, validate, and track supplemental pay requests, ensuring completeness, accuracy, and appropriate approvals.

• Analyze payroll discrepancies and perform research on demand to resolve issues and answer questions.

• Provide sector point-of-contact (POC) support as needed for payroll processing and issue resolution.

• Respond to inquiries from internal and external customers within required SLAs.

• Create and/or run basic ad hoc query requests to support reporting needs and research.

• Review, analyze, and resolve audit findings during each payroll process; document actions taken and outcomes.

• Write test scripts and perform assigned project duties to support system enhancements, process improvements, and departmental objectives.

• Calculate and resolve special processing needs (for example: adjustments, off-cycle items, special earnings scenarios) in alignment with policy and compliance requirements.

Maintain accurate records and process documentation and protect confidential payroll and employee information

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent & 4 years of related education, i.e.: business or accounting and/or relevant work experience.
• 2+ years of payroll experience (or closely related experience in a deadline-driven environment).
• Working knowledge of payroll fundamentals and data validation practices.
• Familiarity with payroll audits, controls, and compliance practices.
• Proficiency in payroll/HR systems and Microsoft Excel.
• Demonstrated customer service skills and ability to meet SLAs.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to handle sensitive information appropriately
• Certified Payroll Professional Certification [2-year completion requirement]
• Analytical problem-solving and issue resolution
• Accuracy, data integrity, and strong follow-through
• Clear written and verbal communication
• Time management and ability to prioritize recurring and urgent requests
• Collaboration across payroll, HR, finance, and sector partners
• Discretion in handling confidential employee and payroll data

Preferred Qualifications

• SAP experience
• Prior experience working in a shared service or center of excellence environment

Primary Level Salary Range: $65,800.00 - $98,800.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.