Senior Associate - US Payroll

Overview

Join Strada, a leading global provider of payroll and workforce management solutions operating in over 180 countries. We are committed to unlocking potential and fostering growth for every employee through meaningful projects and impactful work.

As a Senior Associate in US Payroll based in Kochi, Kerala, you will be responsible for handling comprehensive payroll processes for US clients ensuring compliance, accuracy, and timely delivery while collaborating with diverse teams and clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end payroll operations for assigned US clients with strict adherence to scheduled deadlines and accuracy standards.
• Process various off-cycle payroll activities such as bonuses, terminations, retroactive adjustments, corrections, and other payroll modifications.
• Conduct thorough validations, reconciliations, and necessary post-processing checks prior to finalizing payroll runs.
• Identify and resolve discrepancies and exceptions in payroll results promptly.
• Assess the effects of payroll system updates or configuration changes on upcoming payroll cycles.
• Oversee payroll interface data flows, troubleshoot errors, and analyze root causes to ensure smooth processing.
• Implement SOC1 payroll control procedures and maintain comprehensive audit documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable US federal, state, and local payroll regulations and internal policies.
• Escalate complex payroll or compliance issues to relevant stakeholders for timely resolution.
• Act as the primary contact for payroll inquiries and output delivery management.
• Communicate any payroll schedule changes or processing impacts to business process management and clients.
• Collaborate with Centers of Excellence on complex payroll scenarios, taxation matters, and legislative updates.
• Maintain and update payroll process documentation and operational reports.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process improvements and operational efficiencies.
• Support team members by sharing knowledge and providing guidance as needed.

Qualifications

• Graduate in any discipline or diploma holder.
• Minimum of 3 years’ hands-on experience in comprehensive payroll processing, preferably US payroll.
• Deep understanding of the US payroll lifecycle including multi-state payroll processing, tax deductions, garnishments, benefits administration, W-2 processing, and year-end activities.
• Expertise in payroll reconciliations, internal controls, and compliance adherence.
• Familiarity with popular payroll and HRIS systems such as Workday, ADP, SAP, Oracle, UKG, or analogous platforms.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including use of PivotTables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, formulas, and data analytics.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving aptitude, organization, and communication capabilities.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines ensuring accuracy and quality.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Prior experience in supporting multi-state US payroll operations in shared service or global payroll environments.
• Knowledge of US payroll tax compliance requirements and statutory reporting obligations.
• Experience in payroll interface management, payroll reporting, and continuous process improvement initiatives.

Culture and Values

• Proactively anticipate customer needs and maintain a forward-thinking approach.
• Take ownership to ensure excellence and reliable delivery of results.
• Embrace working smarter by adapting quickly and driving change.
• Collaborate effectively to solve problems and achieve best outcomes.
• Demonstrate care and responsibility for one’s work and colleagues.

Benefits

We provide comprehensive benefits focused on health, wellness, finances, and career development, including health coverage, paid leave policies, retirement plans, and ongoing learning opportunities.

Additional Information

Offers are contingent on satisfactory completion of background checks that may include identity verification, education and employment history checks, and other screenings depending on role and legal requirements.

We foster a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace committed to equal opportunity and support for underrepresented groups and accommodations for disabilities or religious practices.

Applicants must possess valid work authorization without need for visa sponsorship now or in future.

Please note that job responsibilities may be reassigned as business needs evolve, including transfers to subsidiaries or affiliated entities.