Workday Payroll Configuration Analyst

KBR, Inc.•Houston, TX

About The Position

KBR is looking for a Workday Payroll Configuration Analyst to report to the HRIS leadership team. This position will play a key role in configuring, supporting, and optimizing the Workday platform across multiple functional areas. This role’s emphasis will be on the payroll module to support critical payroll operations and compliance requirements, and it will operate as a cross-functional Workday partner, contributing to the ongoing configuration, enhancement, and support of other modules as needed (e.g., HCM, Recruiting, Absence). The Workday Payroll Configuration Analyst will translate payroll and business requirements into scalable Workday solutions, blending technical configuration with functional expertise to ensure accurate payroll execution, maintain data integrity, and drive continuous platform improvement throughout the year.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in information systems, computer science, data analytics, business administration, or a related field required
8 + years of experience in Compensation, HRIS, IT, or HR technology environments supporting enterprise systems
Hands-on experience required in Workday Compensation module
Proficient in compensation cycles (e.g., ASR, bonus planning) within Workday or similar systems
Demonstrated hands-on expertise configuring Workday Compensation, Advanced Compensation and HCM Modules with deep knowledge of business process frameworks, security model, and reporting; able to independently design, build, and deploy complex configurations
Proven track record of delivering scalable Workday solutions, with extensive experience actively configuring and optimizing system functionality across modules
Strong understanding of compensation processes (e.g., merit increases, promotions, bonuses, salary structures)
Workday reporting tools (e.g., Advanced, Matrix, Composite reports) and data analysis experience
Expertise supporting Workday releases, testing cycles (UAT), and defect resolution
Strong attention to detail with a focus on data accuracy, system reliability, and process improvement
Ability to translate business requirements into technical configurations and system solutions
Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work across functional teams
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and operate effectively in a fast-paced environment
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills with a growing ability to see interdependencies across modules
Troubleshoot complex system and data issues and the ability to communicate technical concepts in a business-friendly way
Commitment to continuous learning and staying current on Workday functionality and best practices

Nice To Haves

Workday Pro Certification(s) in Payroll with a focus in US, UK, and/or AU specific payroll knowledge

Responsibilities

Serve as a hands-on configuration expert across Workday, with a strong focus on Payroll—designing, building, and maintaining earnings, deductions, payroll calculations, and pay groups in alignment with business and regulatory requirements—while also supporting configuration across Core HCM, Recruiting, Absence, and related modules to ensure cohesive, compliant, and scalable system design aligned with business needs
Partner with Payroll teams to support payroll processing activities, ensuring system readiness, accuracy, and timely issue resolution
Partner with Payroll and People teams to design and enhance business processes and system functionality across Workday, ensuring alignment with operational and compliance needs
Support Workday releases, including impact analysis, payroll-specific testing, and deployment of new functionality
Develop and maintain payroll reports, audit controls, and data extracts to support compliance, reconciliations, and reporting requirements
Assist with monitoring and troubleshooting payroll-related integrations (e.g., tax agencies, custom integrations for benefit vendors)
Ensure accuracy and consistency of set-up data through audits, reconciliations, and adherence to governance standards
Partner with Payroll and business teams to gather requirements, troubleshoot issues, and deliver effective Workday solutions
Manage the Workday Help support queue as Tier 2 support across all functional areas; triage, investigate, and resolve issues with appropriate urgency while providing clear communication to end users
Develop and maintain knowledge base documentation and training materials
Support adherence to payroll regulations, tax requirements, audit standards, and Workday security protocols
Plan, coordinate and execute high-volume data loads using EIBs across multiple functional areas