Panamá, PA Mexico City, MX Quito, EC Bogotá D.C, CO Santo Domingo, DO Bahia Blanca, AR
Payroll Coordinator, LATAM
Wärtsilä is an innovative technology company known for being a forerunner in the Marine and Energy markets. Every day, we – Wärtsilians - put our hearts and minds into turning Wärtsilä's purpose of enabling sustainable societies through innovation in technology and services into reality. Our ultimate aim is to provide increased value to both our customers and society. New, game-changing ideas and continuous improvement have been part of our DNA since 1834. Together, we can create new business opportunities and more sustainable future that we can all be proud of.
We want to transition the world towards a decarbonised and sustainable future. By pushing the boundaries of engineering and technology, we can make it work. We are always on the lookout for future-oriented talent – want to join the ride?
Position Summary
The Payroll Coordinator for Latin America is responsible for overseeing and executing the end-to-end payroll process across multiple countries within the region.
This role ensures full compliance with local legislation, maintains strong relationships with payroll vendors, and drives continuous improvement of payroll systems and processes.
The Payroll Coordinator works closely with HR, Finance, and external partners to deliver accurate, timely, and compliant payroll services.
Key Responsibilities
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Manage the end-to-end payroll cycle for all entities within the Latin America region.
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Review, validate, and approve payroll inputs and outputs to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
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Monitor and interpret payroll-related legislation across countries, ensuring timely updates and adherence to regulatory requirements.
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Maintain strong relationships with external payroll providers and ensure consistent execution of standardized payroll processes.
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Manage country-specific payroll components, including employee benefits, vacation accruals, pensions, and statutory contributions.
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Verify and process payroll deductions, ensuring accurate accounting and posting.
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Identify opportunities for process improvements and support payroll systems optimization and automation initiatives.
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Prepare and analyze payroll reports, including:
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Earnings and deductions
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Taxes and statutory contributions
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Leave, disability, and non-taxable income
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Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies, ensuring data integrity and proper system reconciliation.
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Respond to payroll-related inquiries from employees and stakeholders, providing clear and timely guidance.
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Develop, maintain, and update payroll policies and procedures aligned with best practices and legal requirements.
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Ensure ongoing compliance with local labor laws by proactively monitoring legislative changes and advising relevant stakeholders.
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Implement and monitor internal controls related to payroll processes and audits.
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Act as a key user for payroll systems by:
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Supporting cross-functional teams
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Delivering training sessions
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Maintaining training materials and documentation
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Ensure proper segregation of duties and compliance with audit standards across all countries in scope.
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Collaborate with HR, Finance, and other departments on payroll budgeting, forecasting, and fund allocation.
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Perform additional duties as required to support payroll operations and organizational objectives.
Qualifications and Experience
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Minimum 5+ years of experience in payroll, preferably in regional or multi-country environments.
Skills and Competencies
Languages
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Fluent English (required)
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Portuguese (desirable)
Technical & Systems Skills
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Strong knowledge of payroll systems and processes
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Advanced MS Office skills, including:
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Excel (macros, pivot tables, data analysis)
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Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint
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Power BI and Forms (desirable)
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Experience with data analysis tools and digital solutions (e.g., Copilot)
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
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Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
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Strong intercultural awareness and sensitivity
Functional Competencies
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Solid understanding of payroll principles and legislation
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Ability to interpret payroll laws and apply them within systems
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High attention to detail and accuracy
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Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
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Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
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High level of integrity and confidentiality
Professional Skills
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Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
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Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multicultural environment
Core Competencies
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Making it happen
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Building relationships
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Forward thinking
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Self-confidence and initiative
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Openness and flexibility
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Goal orientation
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Professional expertise
Last application date: 17/06/2026
At Wärtsilä we value, respect and embrace all our differences, and are committed to diversity, inclusion and equal employment opportunities; everyone can be their true self and succeed based on their job-relevant merits and abilities.
Please note that according to Wärtsilä policy, voluntary consent for a security check may be required from candidates being considered for this position, depending on the applicable country.
This is Wärtsilä
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. Our team of 18,300 professionals, in more than 230 locations in 77 countries, shape the decarbonisation transformation of our industries across the globe. Read more on www.wartsila.com.