Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely execution of payroll processing and all related upstream and downstream administrative processes for a defined employee group. The position serves as a central point of contact for employees, managers, authorities, and social insurance institutions regarding payroll- and time-management-related matters.

The role requires close coordination with Human Resources, Finance, managers, employees, and external institutions, as well as regular on-site presence to ensure compliance with German payroll, tax, labor, and social security regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Processing and Administration

• Processing payroll for a defined group of employees, including all preparatory and follow-up activities
• Ensuring accurate and timely payroll accounting in compliance with German tax and social security regulations
• Managing payroll-related master data and personnel records
• Handling administrative HR tasks, including preparation of certificates and official documentation
• Supporting monthly and annual closing activities within the Finance Department
• Payroll processing for Pensioners and alignment with Mercer on pension accruals and processing

Communication with Authorities and Institutions

• Direct communication with health insurance providers, social security institutions, tax authorities, and employment agencies
• Coordinating payroll-related matters with public authorities, professional associations, and external institutions
• Managing reporting obligations and statutory notifications

Time Management Administration

• Maintaining and updating the time management system based on input provided by supervisors and employees
• Reviewing and processing working time records, absences, vacation balances, and corrections, clarify failure with local shop-floor employees
• Supporting compliance with internal working time regulations and legal requirements

Reporting and Data Analysis

• Preparing payroll evaluations, reports, and statistical analyses
• Supporting audits and internal reporting requirements
• Monitoring payroll-related KPIs and data quality

Employee and Management Support

• Acting as a contact person for managers and employees regarding payroll- and time-management-related topics
• Providing guidance on payroll processes, deductions, absences, and statutory requirements
• Supporting confidential and sensitive HR-related inquiries

Qualifications

Professional Qualifications

• Completed commercial vocational training, ideally with specialization in payroll accounting, human resources, finance, or administration
• Several years of experience in German payroll administration
• Strong knowledge of German wage tax, social security, and labor regulations
• Experience with German payroll and time management systems
• Good understanding of finance and accounting processes

Personal Skills

• High level of accuracy and confidentiality
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Structured and independent working style
• Ability to manage sensitive data responsibly
• Strong problem-solving and coordination skills

Language Skills

• German language skills, both written and spoken, are mandatory