Xylem is a Fortune 500 global water solutions company dedicated to advancing sustainable impact and empowering the people who make water work every day. As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem is at the forefront of addressing the world's most critical water challenges. We invite passionate individuals to join our team, dedicated to exceeding customer expectations through innovative and sustainable solutions. Position Summary The Payroll Expert is a senior-level role responsible for ensuring the accurate, compliant, and timely execution of payroll operations across multiple jurisdictions. This role serves as a subject matter expert (SME) in payroll processing, system optimization, and regulatory compliance, and plays a key role in driving continuous improvement and automation initiatives. The Payroll Expert partners closely with HR, Finance, and external vendors to deliver a seamless employee pay experience. Key Responsibilities Payroll Operations Lead end-to-end payroll processing for assigned regions, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance. Validate complex payroll calculations, tax withholdings, and benefit deductions. Oversee off-cycle payments, retroactive adjustments, and year-end processing. Compliance & Controls Ensure adherence to federal, state, and local wage and hour laws. Maintain strong internal controls and support internal/external audits. Monitor regulatory changes and implement necessary updates to payroll practices. System & Vendor Management Serve as a power user for payroll systems (e.g., Workday, Meta4, Compaq, or Excel). Collaborate with IT and HRIS to test system enhancements and resolve issues. Manage relationships with third-party payroll providers and tax agencies. Continuous Improvement Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy. Support digital transformation initiatives, including automation and self-service. Contribute to global payroll harmonization efforts and knowledge sharing. Stakeholder Engagement Act as a trusted advisor to HR, Finance, and business leaders on payroll matters. Provide guidance and mentorship to junior payroll team members. Respond to escalated employee inquiries with professionalism and discretion. Shape Qualifications Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, or related field. Experience: Minimum 8 years of progressive payroll experience, including multi-state or multi-country (US, Canada, Mexico) payroll. Certifications: Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) preferred. Systems: Strong proficiency in Workday, Meta4, Compaq, or similar platforms. Skills: Deep knowledge of payroll regulations and best practices. Analytical mindset with strong Excel and reporting skills. Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities. Proven ability to lead initiatives and work independently in a fast-paced environment. Advanced Excel proficiency required, including pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, conditional formulas, and data validation for payroll reconciliation, audit support, and complex earnings calculations. Preferred experience with financial processes, including general ledger reconciliation, payroll journal entries, and cost center allocations to ensure accurate financial reporting and alignment with accounting standards. Multi-state and local jurisdiction tax knowledge a plus, with the ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and ensure compliance across diverse US, Canada, and Mexico regions. Join the global Xylem team to be a part of innovative technology solutions transforming water usage, conservation, and re-use. Our products impact public utilities, industrial sectors, residential areas, and commercial buildings, with a commitment to providing smart metering, network technologies, and advanced analytics for water, electric, and gas utilities. Partner with us in creating a world where water challenges are met with ingenuity and dedication; where we recognize the power of inclusion and belonging in driving innovation and allowing us to compete more effectively around the world.