Senior Payroll Systems Analyst

McDermott Will & Emery

. Manage end-to-end configuration, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the Workday Payroll module .

Posted 9/30/2026full-timeUnited StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $97,000 - $130,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in Workday Payroll configuration and management, with a strong focus on payroll calculation logic, tax setup, and process improvements through automation. Capable of translating business needs into technical deliverables while ensuring data integrity and compliance with internal controls.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Workday Payroll ConfigurationPayroll Calculation LogicProcess Improvement Through AutomationData AnalysisInternal Controls Knowledge

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Payroll System ConfigurationTax ConfigurationEarnings and Deductions SetupRoot-Cause AnalysisBanking ReconciliationGeneral Ledger MappingPayroll ReportingChange-Control ProceduresData Integrity MonitoringPayroll Processing Error Resolution

Soft Skills

Analytical SkillsWritten CommunicationVerbal CommunicationDocumentation SkillsConfidentiality Management

Tools & Technologies

WorkdayADP

Industry Keywords

Payroll Systems ExperienceAccountingHuman ResourcesOperational RiskAuditability

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Manage end-to-end configuration, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the Workday Payroll module
Configure earnings and deductions, payroll calculation rules, tax configuration, and payroll-specific business processes
Document payroll system configuration, business rules, and change-control procedures
Lead testing and validation of payroll system changes, Workday releases, and configuration updates
Resolve system and payroll processing errors through root-cause analysis and corrective actions
Monitor data integrity across HR, timekeeping, benefits, and other payroll inputs
Manage payroll general ledger mapping and journal entry processes
Prepare, review, post, and reconcile banking, payroll, and general ledger data with Accounting and ADP
Prepare and deliver payroll reporting and analysis
Identify and implement payroll process and system improvements through automation
Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to translate strategic priorities into scalable solutions
Lead AI adoption within the payroll function

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Information Systems, Human Resources, or related field, or equivalent experience
At least five (5) years of payroll systems experience
Demonstrated expertise in Workday Payroll configuration
Deep knowledge of payroll calculation logic, tax setup, and Workday system configuration
Ability to translate business needs into technical deliverables
Experience driving process improvements through automation, data analysis, and technology
Ability to interpret payroll and tax requirements and translate them into system design and configuration
Strong knowledge of internal controls, auditability, and operational risk considerations in financial processes
Strong analytical, mathematical, and root-cause troubleshooting skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong documentation and process-design skills
Ability to handle and maintain confidential information
Reliable, high-speed internet connection required
Experience working within a law firm is preferred, but not required

Benefits

Comp & perks

Competitive total rewards package
Performance-based bonuses
Comprehensive benefits package
Wellness support for physical, emotional, mental, and financial health
Work-life balance support
Career opportunities
Inclusive, award-winning workplace culture