Payroll Specialist

Role overview

Cognizant is looking for a Payroll Specialist to support and develop payroll operations for Germany as part of its European Finance & Payroll function. This position plays an important role in ensuring payroll is delivered accurately, in compliance with local rules, and within an efficient operating setup in a highly regulated environment.

You will work closely with HR, Finance, and external payroll providers while contributing to a global organisation with an international working culture. The role is suited to someone who values responsibility, stability, and the opportunity to work in a cross-border setting.

Key responsibilities

• Handle the monthly payroll cycle for Germany.
• Coordinate with external payroll vendors such as ADP and SAP.
• Review and reconcile payroll inputs and outputs, including gross-to-net calculations, tax items, and social insurance data.
• Ensure payroll processing follows German legal and regulatory requirements.
• Act as a contact point for employees regarding payroll matters such as payslips and taxation.
• Partner with HR, Finance, and other internal stakeholders on payroll-related activities.
• Support audits, reporting, and process improvement initiatives.
• Contribute to ongoing enhancement of payroll processes in an international environment.

Candidate profile

• Several years of payroll experience, preferably with exposure to German payroll.
• Strong knowledge of German tax law and social security regulations.
• Hands-on experience with payroll platforms such as SAP, ADP, or PeopleSoft.
• Confident Excel user.
• Fluent German skills at C1 level or above, plus good English communication ability.
• Organised, reliable, and detail-focused working style.
• Team-oriented mindset with strong service orientation.

Work model and benefits

• Hybrid setup with 2 to 3 days per week on-site in Frankfurt and the remaining days remote.
• International workplace environment.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Company benefits and additional allowances.
• Long-term career prospects within a global organisation.

Why Cognizant

• Join a global company with more than 300,000 employees worldwide.
• Be part of a structured and stable organisation with long-term prospects.
• Gain experience in an EMEA payroll environment.
• Work in a modern setting focused on digitalisation and process improvement.
• Collaborate with international teams and subject matter experts.

Location

The role is based in Frankfurt am Main with a hybrid working arrangement. Candidates should ideally already live in the Frankfurt area or be willing to relocate.