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Contract Payroll Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Contract Payroll Specialist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$24 - $32.75/hr

NSS is looking for a Temporary Payroll Specialist to support a local government contractor. This individual will be responsible for payroll processing. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ...

Contract Payroll Specialist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$24 - $32.75/hr

NSS is looking for a Temporary Payroll Specialist to support a local government contractor. This individual will be responsible for payroll processing. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ...

Payroll - Paylocity ( Contract) Location: Rockville MD Pay : $30.00 - $35.00 / Per Hour Hiring Type: 3 month Contract Office Schedule: 4x on site Benefits: This position is eligible for medical ...

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Payroll Manager

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Payroll Manager Silver Spring, MD Hybrid Long Term Contract - $50-$60/hr. Workday experience REQUIRED The Payroll Manager is responsible for managing fullcycle, inhouse payroll using Workday. This ...

Payroll Specialist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

This is a Contract position that requires a hands-on individual who can manage accurate, timely payroll processing in an in-office environment. The ideal candidate brings strong knowledge of multi ...

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Payroll Manager

Mclean, VA · On-site

$35 - $55/hr

We are looking for a Payroll Accountant to support global payroll operations for a Contract position based Washington, DC. This role oversees payroll processing, validation, and account ...

Payroll Administrator

Mclean, VA · On-site

$24.75 - $33.25/hr

Maintaining and applying union contracts * Provide backup for other payroll team members * Assist in department initiatives and system enhancements Basic Qualifications * 2+ years payroll experience

Payroll Administrator

Mclean, VA · On-site

$24.75 - $33.25/hr

Maintaining and applying union contracts * Provide backup for other payroll team members * Assist in department initiatives and system enhancements Basic Qualifications * 2+ years payroll experience

The Payroll Manager oversees end-to-end payroll operations for a multi-state, multi-entity organization, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws and union and Service Contract Act ...

Payroll Administrator

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$26.25 - $35.25/hr

Maintaining and applying union contracts * Provide backup for other payroll team members * Assist in department initiatives and system enhancements Basic Qualifications * 2+ years payroll experience

The Payroll Manager oversees end-to-end payroll operations for a multi-state, multi-entity organization, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws and union and Service Contract Act ...

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Contract Payroll information

See Reston, VA salary details

$15

$28

$40

How much do contract payroll jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract payroll in Reston, VA is $28.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.51 and $32.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in contract payroll roles, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in contract payroll roles often encounter challenges such as managing multiple client accounts with varying pay schedules, staying up-to-date with frequent changes in tax regulations, and ensuring strict compliance with labor laws. Effective organization, attention to detail, and consistent communication with clients are crucial for success. Utilizing updated payroll software and attending regular compliance training can also help mitigate errors and streamline processes.

How much does a payroll consultant cost?

The cost of a payroll consultant typically ranges from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of payroll services required. Some consultants may offer fixed project rates or retainer agreements for ongoing support.

What is the highest paying job in payroll?

The highest paying roles in payroll typically include Payroll Director or Payroll Manager at large organizations, with salaries often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of payroll systems and compliance regulations.

How much does a payroll consultant earn?

Payroll consultants typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior or specialized consultants can earn higher salaries, especially when working with complex payroll systems or in high-demand industries.

What is the difference between Contract Payroll vs Contract Accountant?

AspectContract PayrollContract Accountant
Required CredentialsBasic payroll processing knowledge, sometimes certifications like ADP or PaychexAccounting degree, CPA or similar certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentPayroll departments, HR teams, or outsourced payroll firmsAccounting firms, finance departments, or freelance accounting roles
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries for payroll managementUsed in finance, accounting, and auditing sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding payroll-specific roles and contractsComparing accounting roles and contract work

Contract Payroll roles focus on processing employee wages, tax deductions, and compliance, often requiring payroll-specific certifications. Contract Accountant positions involve broader accounting responsibilities, financial analysis, and often require accounting degrees and certifications. While both are contract-based finance roles, Contract Payroll is specialized in payroll management, whereas Contract Accountants handle comprehensive accounting tasks.

Do contract jobs pay higher?

Contract payroll jobs often pay higher hourly rates compared to permanent positions to compensate for the lack of benefits and job security. However, total compensation may be lower over time due to the absence of benefits like health insurance and retirement plans. Pay rates can also vary based on industry, skill level, and project duration.

What is contract payroll?

Contract payroll refers to the process of managing and processing payroll for employees who are hired on a contract basis rather than as permanent staff. This involves handling payments, withholding taxes, and ensuring compliance with labor laws specific to contract workers. Contract payroll can be managed internally by a company or outsourced to specialized payroll service providers. It helps businesses remain flexible with staffing while ensuring contractors are paid correctly and on time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Payroll Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Payroll Specialist, you need a solid understanding of payroll processes, tax regulations, and relevant labor laws, often backed by experience in finance or accounting and sometimes a payroll certification like CPP. Familiarity with payroll software systems such as ADP, Paychex, or QuickBooks is typically required to efficiently manage payroll tasks. Excellent attention to detail, discretion, and strong communication skills help ensure accuracy and maintain confidentiality while collaborating with employees and management. These skills are crucial for ensuring timely and compliant payroll processing, which supports employee satisfaction and organizational integrity.
What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Payroll jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Payroll jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Contract Payroll jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Contract Payroll job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Payroll job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 39% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,282 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
Contract Payroll Specialist

Contract Payroll Specialist

NSS

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$24 - $32.75/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

NSS is looking for a Temporary Payroll Specialist to support a local government contractor. This individual will be responsible for payroll processing.
The ideal candidate will be responsible for processing bi-weekly or monthly payroll, ensuring accurate employee compensation, tax deductions, and compliance with company policies and legal regulations. This position requires proficiency in payroll software, attention to detail, and excellent organizational skills. The temporary payroll specialist will work closely with internal departments to resolve any payroll discrepancies and assist with other payroll-related tasks as needed.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Process and verify payroll for all employees.
  • Ensure accurate tax withholdings and deductions.
  • Maintain up-to-date employee payroll records.
  • Assist with payroll inquiries and resolve discrepancies.
  • Collaborate with HR and finance teams for compliance and reporting.
  • Support month-end and year-end payroll closing tasks.

Qualifications:
  • Previous experience in payroll or accounting.
  • Strong knowledge of payroll software specifically Unanet and iSolved.
  • Attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Excellent communication skills.

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About NSS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NSS RPO was founded by Jessica Nicholson and Conor Nicholson in 2009. They saw the need for a nice services company that valued their employees by putting them first. With Jessica’s organizational skills and strategy along with Conor’s network, the company employed 25 contract recruiters in less than a year and proceeded to make the Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest growing companies in America, three years in a row. Since its inception, NSS RPO has hired hundreds of recruiters in over 30 states. NSS RPO is proud to include among its clients eight of the ten largest government contractors, the world's largest job board, entertainment company and one of the nation’s largest banks. NSS RPO is your trusted provider of Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) solutions. Founded by an experienced recruiter and solely focused on RPO, NSS RPO offers a strong network of exceptional recruiters and customizable staffing solutions. Named to Washington Business Journal’s prestigious list of Top 25 Staffing Agencies seven years in a row, NSS RPO is known for its quality, agility, and expertise. If you have a recruitment staffing need at your organization, NSS RPO can customize a solution for you, no matter how big or small.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

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