Payroll Specialist

About Cognita:

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries—Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East—serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools is proudly unique, but our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can “Thrive in a rapidly evolving world”.

We now have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Payroll Specialist to join our fantastic team in Madrid, Spain.

You’ll work closely with our external payroll provider, Atisa, to manage the monthly payroll cycle, validate data, and guarantee compliance with Spanish labor law and internal policies. Your responsibilities will include reviewing payroll reports, handling employee queries, and supporting HR and Finance teams with reporting and reconciliations. You’ll also contribute to process improvements and system updates, helping us deliver a seamless payroll experience.

This is a 9‑month fixed‑term contract with the option for hybrid working.

• Act as the primary liaison between the company and the external payroll provider.
• Collect, validate, and transmit monthly payroll data (hires, terminations, salary changes, absences).
• Review payroll reports for accuracy and compliance before approval.
• Ensure correct handling of sick leaves and incidencias in coordination with HR and the payroll provider.
• Prepare and maintain documentation for audits, tax filings, and Social Security obligations.

To view our full role profile, .

You are detail‑oriented, organised, and thrive in a fast‑paced environment. You have strong communication skills and can manage multiple stakeholders effectively. With multiple years of payroll experience in Spain, you bring solid knowledge of Spanish labour law, IRPF, and Social Security. You’re comfortable working with external providers and ideally have experience with HRIS systems. A degree in Labour Relations, HR, Finance, or a related field is essential, and fluency in Spanish is required, with English proficiency preferred.

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
• Free breakfast and lunch provided during Term Time
• School holidays and public holidays
• Exclusive third‑party discounts
  
  Ongoing professional development

Complete this application before the closing date.

Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre‑employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.