Payroll Operations Lead

Role Overview

• Act as the subject matter expert for assigned Central America countries, ensuring full ownership of payroll processes.
• Process end-to-end in-house payroll, including data collection, validation, calculations, approvals, payments, and statutory compliance.
• Manage statutory filings, tax obligations, and social security requirements across assigned countries.
• Ensure data accuracy, integrity, and timely delivery aligned with KPIs and SLAs.
• Handle payroll accounting, reconciliations, and support financial reporting requirements.
• Partner with internal stakeholders (Payroll Implementation, Finance, Product, and Support teams) to ensure smooth operations and alignment.
• Identify process gaps and drive continuous improvements, standardization, and automation initiatives.
• Manage payroll exceptions, escalations, and complex cases with a problem-solving mindset.
• Support and mentor other payroll specialists, contributing to team development and knowledge sharing.

Requirements

• Several years of experience in LATAM payroll, with strong exposure to Central America.
• Proven experience managing end-to-end payroll processes independently.
• Strong understanding of compliance, statutory filings, and local labor regulations.
• Analytical mindset with strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, global environment and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Experience working cross-functionally with Finance, Product, or Implementation teams.
• Strong knowledge of payroll processes across Central America, particularly in countries such as Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.
• Solid understanding of local tax regulations, social security, and statutory compliance.
• Experience managing end-to-end payroll processing in-house.
• Knowledge of payroll accounting and reconciliations.
• Familiarity with payroll systems and tools; experience with automation or process improvements is a plus.
• Fluent in English and Spanish (written and spoken).
• Experience with in-house payroll operations is a strong plus.
• Remote work experience is a plus, but not required.

Benefits

• work from anywhere
• flexible paid time off
• flexible working hours (we are async)
• 16 weeks paid parental leave
• mental health support services
• stock options
• learning budget
• home office budget & IT equipment
• budget for local in-person social events or co-working spaces