Payroll and People Operations Specialist

About AFRY

AFRY is an international engineering, design, and advisory company. The company supports clients in sustainability and digitalization with a team of 19,000 experts across infrastructure, industry, and energy sectors globally. AFRY focuses on creating sustainable solutions for future generations.

Role Overview

AFRY is seeking a Payroll and People Operations Specialist to support its growing business in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This full-time role involves delivering accurate and compliant payroll and HR operational services throughout the employee lifecycle. The specialist will ensure adherence to Saudi labor legislation, payroll regulations, and company policies, working closely with employees, managers, Finance, external payroll providers, and the EMEA People Operations team.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and support monthly payroll processing, including administration through external providers like Mawarit.
• Collect, review, and validate payroll inputs such as new hires, terminations, salary changes, bonuses, allowances, overtime, leave data, and final settlements.
• Process employee leave transactions and maintain accurate leave balance calculations and records.
• Coordinate monthly personnel expense reimbursements and ensure timely payroll-related payments.
• Review payroll reports for accuracy prior to approval and submission.
• Respond to payroll-related queries from employees and managers, resolving issues promptly.
• Ensure compliance with local payroll legislation, statutory requirements, and GOSI regulations.
• Maintain payroll documentation and records, including employee updates within the GOSI portal.
• Coordinate employee medical insurance enrolments, amendments, and terminations with relevant providers.
• Support annual salary review and bonus administration processes.
• Monitor payroll deadlines and ensure all payroll activities are completed accurately and on time.
• Follow up on payroll-related invoices and partner with Finance and payroll vendors to resolve discrepancies and improve processes.
• Manage employee lifecycle activities including onboarding, employment contracts, employee data changes, promotions, transfers, and offboarding.
• Coordinate employee transfers and onboarding activities with external partners, including Mawarit where applicable.
• Support visa administration, including exit/re-entry visa arrangements, Iqama renewals, and other employee mobility requirements.
• Maintain accurate employee records and HR systems.
• Support compliance with Saudi labor law and internal policies.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence across HR processes.
• Act as a point of contact for employees and managers on HR operational matters.

Qualifications and Experience

Candidates should possess 2-5 years of relevant experience. The role requires a proactive, detail-oriented, and service-oriented individual with a strong understanding of Saudi labor legislation and payroll regulations.

Work Environment and Impact

This position offers an opportunity to join a collaborative international team, contributing to payroll and HR operational services that support employees and business success. The role provides broad exposure across the organization, involving partnerships with employees, managers, Finance, and external providers. As the business grows, the specialist will have the opportunity to help shape processes and drive operational excellence within a dynamic environment.

Application Information

AFRY is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, irrespective of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, disability, or age. The company values diversity and aims to accelerate the transition towards a sustainable society.