HR Consulting Senior Associate (Payroll)

Job-ID: 116264Category: -Location: Chicago, IL, United States; Los Angeles, CA, United States; New York, NY, United States; Austin, TX, United States; Dallas, TX, United States; Boston, MA, United States; Philadelphia, PA, United StatesSchedule: Full timePosted: 2026-10-28Grant Thornton is seeking Senior Associate to transform HR and Payroll operations for our clients. This role requires a strong background in workforce strategy, organizational design, and service delivery as well as experience in developing global HR and Payroll operating models, including GBS or shared services frameworks. From day one, you’ll be supported and empowered by our broader Transformation team as you help clients achieve their vision — and grow your own career with confidence. Your day-to-day may include:Manage end-to-end delivery of HR and Payroll transformation projects, including operating model assessments, system implementations, system selection, and process redesign, serving as a trusted advisor to client leadership.Partner with clients to assess current state operations, identify pain points, and develop future-state roadmaps for improved efficiency, scalability, and enhanced compliance. Drive continuous improvement and governance frameworks across HR and Payroll processes by implementing best practices, optimizing workflows, and leveraging technology. Design and lead workshops on all topics across workforce transformation strategy for stakeholder alignment and change management.Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external vendors to ensure seamless integration of technology and processes.Own the delivery of project milestones, ensuring all deliverables meet quality standards and client expectations.Build and maintain strong client relationships by understanding business needs, delivering tailored solutions, and ensuring long-term satisfaction and partnership.Collaborate with internal teams to contribute to methodology development, whitepapers, and thought leadership. Meet or exceed targeted utilizationOther duties as assignedYou have the following technical skills and qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Business, HR, or related field3+ years of experience in HR/Payroll transformation, consulting, or related roles.Proficiency in HR and Payroll systems (UKG, Dayforce, Workday, SAP/SuccessFactors, etc).Ability to align transformation initiatives with broader business strategy and workforce trends.Experience in selecting and implementing HCM platforms and designing HR operating models.Familiarity with automation tools and data analytics to drive process improvement.Understanding of global payroll compliance, data privacy regulations, and cross-border operationsComfortable presenting to C-Suite/senior executives and shaping strategic conversations.Strong project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.Knowledge of compliance standards and risk mitigation strategies.Have excellent verbal and written communication skillsCan travel as needed, typically 40-50% but occasionally up to 80%The base salary range for this position is between $110,400 and $140,760. Placement within the pay range is at Grant Thornton’s discretion, and it is based on multiple factors, including but not limited to, job -related knowledge/skills, experience, business needs, progression within the role, geographic location, and internal equity. At Grant Thornton, compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate.#LI-SW1About the organizationThe team you’re about to join is ready to help you thrive. Here’s how:

• Whether it's your work location, weekly schedule, or flex time off, we empower you with the options to work the way that it best serves your clients and your life. Consistent with the firm's hybrid work model, this position will require in-person attendance at least three days per week, either at a GT office or client site.
• Here, you are supported to prioritize your overall well-being through work-life integration options that work best for you and those in your household.
• We understand that your needs, responsibilities and experiences are different — and we think that’s a good thing. That’s why we support you with personalized and comprehensive benefits that recognize and empower all the identities, roles and aspirations that make you, well, you. See how at
• When it comes to inclusion, we are committed to doing more than checking boxes. Explore all the ways we’re taking action for diversity, equity & inclusion at what you can expect next:

If you apply and are selected to interview, a Grant Thornton team member will reach out to you to schedule a time to connect. We encourage you to also check out other roles that may be a good fit for you or get to know us a little bit better at Benefits: We understand that your needs, responsibilities and experiences are different, and we think that’s a good thing. That’s why we support you with personalized and comprehensive benefits that recognize and empower all the identities, roles and aspirations that make you, well, you. For an overview of our benefit offerings, please visit: for internship positions: Grant Thornton interns are eligible to participate in the firm’s medical, dental and vision insurance programs and the firm’s employee assistance program. Interns also receive a minimum of 72 hours of paid sick leave, and are paid for firm holidays that fall within their internship period.Benefits for seasonal employee positions: Grant Thornton seasonal employees are eligible to participate in the firm’s medical, dental and vision insurance programs and the firm’s employee assistance program. Seasonal employees may also be eligible to participate in the firm’s 401(k) savings plan and employee retirement plan in accordance with applicable plan terms and eligibility requirements. Seasonal employees receive a minimum of 72 hours of paid sick leave. Grant Thornton employees may be eligible for a discretionary, annual bonus based on individual and firm performance, subject to the terms, conditions and eligibility criteria of the applicable bonus plan or program. Interns and seasonal employees are not eligible for bonus compensation. Additional Details: It is the policy of Grant Thornton to promote equal employment opportunities. All personnel decisions (including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, working conditions, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, evaluations, and termination) are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital or civil union status, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship status, veteran status, disability, handicap, genetic predisposition or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state and local laws, it is the policy of Grant Thornton LLP to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. To make an accommodation request, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io. For Los Angeles Applicants only: We will consider for employment all qualified Applicants, including those with Criminal Histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. For Massachusetts Applicants only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Gran Thornton does not require or administer lie detector tests as a condition of employments or continued employment. About the companyAt Grant Thornton, we believe in making business more personal and building trust into every result – for our clients and you. Here, we go beyond your expectations of a career in professional services by offering a career path with more: more opportunity, more flexibility, and more support. It’s what makes us different, and we think being different makes us better. In the U.S., Grant Thornton delivers professional services through two specialized entities: Grant Thornton LLP, a licensed, certified public accounting (CPA) firm that provides audit and assurance services ― and Grant Thornton Advisors LLC (not a licensed CPA firm), which exclusively provides non-attest offerings, including tax and advisory services. In 2025, Grant Thornton formed a multinational, multidisciplinary platform with Grant Thornton Ireland. The platform offers a premier Trans-Atlantic advisory and tax practice, as well as independent American and Irish audit practices. With $2.7 billion in revenues and more than 50 offices spanning the U.S., Ireland and other territories, the platform delivers a singular client experience that includes enhanced solutions and capabilities, backed by powerful technologies and a roster of 12,000 quality-driven professionals enjoying exceptional career-growth opportunities and a distinctive cross-border culture. Grant Thornton is part of the Grant Thornton International Limited network, which provides access to its member firms in more than 150 global markets.