Payroll Specialist (m/f/d) – Payroll Implementation & Operations

J&T Express Germany GmbH; Nieder-Olm; On-site; EUR 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

J&T Express Germany GmbH is seeking an experienced Payroll Specialist to own and optimize payroll operations across Germany. The role combines hands-on payroll processing with system implementation and process development in an international logistics environment.

Requirements include several years of German payroll experience, expertise in DATEV/SAP payroll tools, and strong knowledge of wage tax law. Fluent German and good English are essential; Mandarin is a plus.

Qualifications

• Several years of professional experience in German payroll accounting.
• Proven experience setting up, implementing, or restructuring payroll processes.
• Experience with payroll systems such as DATEV, SAP HCM, SAP SuccessFactors, or ADP.
• Strong knowledge of German wage tax law and social security regulations.
• Fluent German and good English; Mandarin is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Own payroll operations for employees across Germany with accurate, compliant processing.
• Lead the setup, implementation, and continuous improvement of payroll processes, systems, and structures.
• Develop standardized payroll workflows, guidelines, and internal controls.
• Coordinate the implementation or optimization of payroll software and integration with HR and finance.
• Manage monthly payroll including fixed salaries, variable compensation, bonuses, allowances, overtime.
• Ensure compliance with wage tax, social security, and employment laws.
• Act as main contact for external payroll providers, tax advisors, social security institutions, and authorities.
• Manage payroll-related reporting, reconciliations, and documentation with HR/Finance.
• Support payroll audits and preparation of statutory reports and declarations.
• Identify opportunities for automation and digitalization to improve efficiency.
• Advise HR, management, and employees on payroll-related matters.
• Collaborate with international HR and Finance stakeholders to align with company standards.

Skills

German language

English communication

Analytical skills

Process orientation

Independence

Stakeholder collaboration

Education

Business Administration degree

Commercial vocational training

Tools

DATEV

SAP HCM

SAP SuccessFactors

ADP

Job description

J&T Express is an international logistics and express delivery company with an expanding network across Europe. We specialize in efficient parcel delivery, last-mile logistics, and innovative supply chain solutions.

To strengthen our HR team in Germany, we are looking for an experienced and hands‑on Payroll Specialist (m/f/d) who will take ownership of our payroll operations and support the development of efficient, compliant, and scalable payroll processes.

This position is particularly suited for a payroll professional who has successfully established, implemented, or significantly developed payroll structures and systems and enjoys combining operational payroll responsibilities with process optimization.

Your Responsibilities

• Take ownership of payroll operations for our employees across Germany, ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely salary processing.
• Lead the setup, implementation, and continuous improvement of payroll processes, systems, and structures within the organization.
• Develop and establish standardized payroll workflows, guidelines, and internal control mechanisms.
• Coordinate the implementation or optimization of payroll software and ensure effective integration with existing HR and finance systems.
• Manage monthly payroll preparation and processing, including fixed salaries, variable compensation, bonuses, allowances, overtime, and other payroll-related components.
• Ensure compliance with German payroll legislation, wage tax regulations, social security requirements, and relevant employment laws.
• Act as the main contact for external payroll providers, tax advisors, social security institutions, and relevant authorities.
• Manage payroll-related reporting, reconciliations, and documentation in close collaboration with HR and Finance.
• Support payroll audits and ensure accurate preparation of statutory reports and declarations.
• Identify opportunities for automation, digitalization, and process improvement to increase payroll efficiency and accuracy.
• Provide professional advice to HR colleagues, management, and employees on payroll-related matters.
• Collaborate closely with international HR and Finance stakeholders to ensure alignment with company standards and local regulatory requirements.

Your Profile

• Completed commercial vocational training or a university degree in Business Administration, Finance, Human Resources, or a comparable qualification.
• Several years of professional experience in German payroll accounting, ideally within an international or growing organization.
• Proven experience in independently setting up, implementing, or restructuring payroll processes and systems is essential.
• Demonstrated experience with payroll system implementation, process standardization, or the transition from external payroll providers to internal payroll operations.
• Strong and up-to-date knowledge of German wage tax law, social security regulations, and payroll compliance requirements.
• Hands‑on experience managing monthly payroll cycles and resolving complex payroll‑related issues.
• Experience with payroll software such as DATEV, SAP HCM, SAP SuccessFactors, ADP, or comparable systems.
• Strong understanding of payroll interfaces, HR information systems, and digital payroll workflows.
• Fluent German and good English communication skills, both written and spoken, are required.
• Mandarin Chinese language skills are an advantage.
• Excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and a structured, process-oriented working style.
• High level of independence, ownership, and problem‑solving ability.
• Strong communication skills and confidence collaborating with local and international stakeholders.
• Experience in logistics, transportation, e-commerce, or another fast‑paced industry is desirable.

What We Offer

• A key role in establishing and developing efficient payroll structures within an international logistics organization.
• The opportunity to take ownership of payroll implementation projects and contribute directly to operational improvements.
• A diverse position combining hands‑on payroll responsibilities with systems implementation and process development.
• Close collaboration with local management, HR, Finance, and international stakeholders.
• An international and multicultural working environment.
• The opportunity to drive payroll digitalization, standardization, and continuous improvement.