Payroll Associate

The Payroll Associate is responsible for supporting payroll operations by maintaining and processing payroll records and assisting with payroll transactions related to employee wages, deductions, garnishments, and other payroll functions. This entry-level role performs payroll processing tasks under the guidance of more experienced payroll staff and helps ensure payroll data is accurate and processed in accordance with company policies and applicable regulations.  

Key Responsibilities  

• Assists with processing payroll for multi-state and multi-company payrolls according to established payroll schedules and procedures. 
• Maintains employee payroll deductions, including benefits, garnishments, and other required withholdings. 
• Supports the processing of employee terminations and final pay in accordance with applicable state requirements. 
• Calculates wage and overtime payments and records payroll deductions and adjustments. 
• Responds to employee payroll questions and directs complex issues to more senior payroll staff when appropriate. 
• Reviews payroll data for completeness and assists in identifying discrepancies or data issues. 
• Maintains payroll records and documentation in accordance with company policies and regulatory requirements. 
• Provides administrative support related to payroll processing, including preparing reports, forms, and payroll documentation. 
• Assists with resolving payroll-related inquiries in a timely and professional manner. 
• Supports payroll compliance activities, reporting requirements, and internal reviews as needed. 
• Performs other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications  

Education and Experience:  

• Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred. 
• Typically requires 0–2 years of payroll processing, accounting, or related administrative experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 
• Experience working with payroll or HR systems is preferred but not required. 

Skills and Competencies:  

• Basic understanding of payroll processes and payroll recordkeeping. 
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate payroll data. 
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet established payroll deadlines. 
• Strong organizational and time management skills. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications. 
• Ability to communicate effectively with employees and internal stakeholders. 
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and follow established procedures. 
• Demonstrated commitment to the company’s core values of Integrity, Mutual Respect, and Excellence. 

Work Environment and Physical Demands 

The physical demands and working conditions outlined below are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential duties of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these duties.  

This role primarily involves working in a standard office environment. The employee will regularly:  

• Sit for extended periods. 
• Use hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office tools. 
• Reach with hands and arms in the context of computer use or file handling. 
• Communicate verbally and aurally in meetings and phone conversations. 

The employee may also: 

• Frequently stand and walk throughout the office. 
• Occasionally lift or move items weighing up to 50 pounds, such as office equipment, files, or supplies. 

The typical noise level in the work environment is moderate—comparable to a standard business office with periodic conversations, phones ringing, and copier or printer use.