Payroll Specialist

As Senior Payroll Specialist at Helsing, you own accurate, compliant payroll data preparation across international entities, with a focus on the DACH region. You will work with HR, Finance, and external advisers to ensure data quality upstream of tax and payroll processing, while shaping scalable payroll processes. You resolve complex queries, drive automation, and mentor juniors in a rigorous, transparent culture. This role offers impact at the intersection of people, finance, and operations in a mission-driven tech environment.

• competitive salary
• VSOP options
• relocation support
• annual learning allowance
• gym membership and mental health support
• monthly social allowances

• Prepare and consolidate payroll data across multiple entities and regions for submission to external advisers
• Serve as the primary escalation point for complex payroll queries and resolve issues with precision
• Partner with external payroll vendors, Steuerberater, and BPO providers to ensure data integrity and SLA compliance
• Maintain compliance with local statutory obligations (wage tax, social security, labour law), with deep focus on Germany and the DACH region
• Lead month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes with Finance and Accounting for reconciliations and audit readiness
• Identify and implement process improvements to reduce manual effort and increase accuracy via automation and HRIS integration
• Mentor and guide junior payroll specialists to foster a culture of rigor, transparency, and continuous improvement

• Experience building and managing preparatory payroll operations across multiple entities and jurisdictions
• Deep working knowledge of payroll compliance, tax obligations, and statutory requirements (especially German and DACH)
• Proven track record managing relations with external payroll providers and holding vendors to standards
• Fluency in German and English (written and spoken) for engagement with authorities and international stakeholders
• Systems-minded approach to payroll with ability to identify inefficiencies and drive fixes
• Precision and reliability in payroll to earn trust from colleagues and leadership

• clear communication
• cross-functional collaboration
• proactive problem solving
• German payroll regulation expertise (DACH)
• Payroll data processing and compliance
• HRIS integration (experience with automation)