Senior Workday HRIS Analyst

CityIrvineStateCaliforniaJob LocationIrvine Regional Office (Derian)Position TypeRegular

The Senior Workday HRIS Analyst is responsible for the administration, configuration and optimization of HR systems with a focus on Workday HCM and related modules (Recruiting, Learning, Talent, and/or Time & Absence). Reporting to the HRIS Manager, the Senior Analyst will partner closely with business leaders to deliver system enhancement and ensure HR systems are leveraged effectively to support strategic HR initiatives.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

• Act as the subject matter expert for Workday HCM, Recruiting, Learning, Talent, and/or Time & Absence modules, providing guidance and best practices.

• Lead the design, configuration, testing, and deployment of enhancements and new features, and process improvements.

• Manage and prioritize ServiceNow tickets, troubleshoot and resolve system issues, escalate when needed, and deliver expert-level support to functional users.  

• Partner with stakeholders to gather business requirements and translate them into scalable technical solutions and system design.

• Develop and maintain system documentation, configuration guides, and end-user training materials to ensure adoption and knowledge transfer.

• Drive HR system projects and cross-functional initiatives to enhance system processes and self-service capabilities.

• Manage and support Workday releases by analyzing release notes, assessing impact impacts, conducting testing and communicating updates to stakeholders.

• Partner with HR, Payroll, and Total Rewards to maintain data integrity, ensure compliance, and optimize core business processes.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

• Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university (B.A./B.S.) is required.

• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience required in Workday HRIS, including system configuration, data processing, and report generation.

• Strong business acumen with the ability to understand how HR technology supports organizational goals.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts in a clear and concise manner.

• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with attention to detail.

• Ability to build strong partnerships with HR, Payroll, IT and business stakeholders.

• Drive for continuous improvement and innovation in HR systems and processes.

WHAT THE JOB REQUIRES:

• Ability to work Monday through Friday. Role may be hybrid or remote based on proximity to an Essex corporate office; candidates must reside in California or Washington. In-person work may be required at corporate offices in Woodland Hills, Irvine, Bellevue, or San Mateo, in accordance with Essex’s hybrid policy, which may change at the company’s discretion.

• Work involves extended periods at a desk using standard office equipment (e.g., computer, phone, printer), with minimal physical exertion.

• Occasional travel may be required for meetings, training, or conferences.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE TABLE:

• Ability to comprehend and interpret instructions, short correspondence, and ask clarifying questions to ensure understanding. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from clients, co-workers, and/or supervisor.

• Ability to understand and carry out general instructions in standard situations. Ability to solve problems in standard situations. Requires basic analytical skills.

• Decisions made with general understanding of procedures and company policies to achieve set results and deadlines.

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All full-time regular associates are offered competitive salaries, experience career growth, and are eligible for benefit packages that include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, 401k employer match, excellence rewards, wellness programs, and much more. With our Sunday property operations office closures, 10 paid holidays, and 15 PTO days, work/life balance is a priority! Additionally, most positions are eligible for a housing discount of 20%.

Essex provides great communities in which to live, work and invest. We are a purpose-driven company, and we pride ourselves on promoting an internal culture of growth and opportunity by engaging, enabling, and empowering our teams. Working at Essex is not a destination. It is a journey where you can confidently build your career.

The pay range for this position is $91,000.00 - $136,000.00 per year. New hires generally start between $91,000.00 - $114,000.00 per year. The final salary offer will be determined after reviewing relevant factors, including but not limited to skill sets; relevant experience; internal equity; and other business and organizational needs.

This role is also eligible to participate in Essex’s discretionary Annual Bonus program that is commensurate with the level of the position.