HR Assistant

Job Title : Payroll Associate - HR Operations

Location : New York, NY (Hybrid - Tuesday through Thursday onsite)

Duration : 6 Months of contract
Position Overview
Client is seeking a Payroll Associate (PF2) to join our 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