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Contract Payroll Jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Specialist

Denver, CO · On-site

$23.75 - $27.50/hr

This Long-term Contract position focuses on delivering accurate and timely payroll processing for a large employee population while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

Payroll Specialist

Denver, CO · Hybrid

$30 - $45/hr

Payroll Specialist Denver, CO (Hybrid) Contract, Contract-to-Hire, or Direct Hire Competitive Compensation + Excellent Benefits Make an Impact Where Accuracy Matters Most Are you a payroll ...

Payroll Tax Consultant

Denver, CO · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

This is a hands-on contract role requiring deep multi-state payroll tax expertise, strong ADP experience, and the ability to work through complex tax discrepancies in a fast-paced environment.

Payroll Benefits Administrat

Erie, CO · On-site

$54K - $71K/yr

... contract negotiations and union meetings. * Facilitate special events such as safety luncheons ... UKG system experience preferred with union payroll experience. * Working knowledge of state and ...

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Contract Payroll information

See Wheat Ridge, CO salary details

$16

$29

$41

How much do contract payroll jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract payroll in Wheat Ridge, CO is $29.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.99 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 payroll jobs pay higher?

Contract payroll jobs typically offer higher hourly wages compared to permanent positions to compensate for the lack of benefits and job security. However, overall compensation may vary based on industry, experience, and the specific employer, and contract roles often require specialized payroll or accounting skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Payroll jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO?

For Contract Payroll jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Payroll jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Payroll jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO are:

What cities near Wheat Ridge, CO are hiring for Contract Payroll jobs?

Cities near Wheat Ridge, CO with the most Contract Payroll job openings:

Payroll Specialist

Robert Half

Denver, CO • On-site

$23.75 - $27.50/hr

Temporary

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

We are looking for a Payroll Specialist to support high-volume payroll operations for an airline organization in Denver, Colorado. This Long-term Contract position focuses on delivering accurate and timely payroll processing for a large employee population while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. The role also works closely with internal stakeholders to resolve payroll questions, maintain employee records, and support timekeeping and year-end payroll activities.
Responsibilities:
• Process bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll cycles for a large workforce with a strong focus on accuracy and deadlines.
• Review payroll data uploads, validate entries in the payroll system, and address discrepancies before final processing.
• Prepare off-cycle and manual payments when urgent payroll adjustments are required.
• Coordinate payroll tax activities, including support for filings and reconciliations across federal, state, and local jurisdictions.
• Maintain payroll-related funding details, including payroll and retirement contribution transfers, and keep related records current.
• Update and audit employee payroll records for hires, separations, garnishments, levies, and other compensation or deduction changes.
• Research payroll issues, resolve employee and management inquiries, and provide responsive customer support.
• Assist with recurring payroll close activities, year-end processing, and ongoing maintenance of the time and attendance system.• At least 3 years of payroll experience in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Hands-on experience with full-cycle payroll processing for large employee populations, including multi-state payroll.
• Strong understanding of payroll tax practices and compliance requirements at the federal, state, and local levels.
• Advanced Excel skills with the ability to review, reconcile, and validate payroll data efficiently.
• Experience with payroll platforms such as UltiPro is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with timekeeping systems, including Kronos, is preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent is required.

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About Robert Half

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1948, Robert Half pioneered the idea of professional talent solutions to connect opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. As business needs changed, we evolved to offer specialized talent solutions for finance and accounting, technology, administrative and customer support, creative and marketing, and legal fields. In 2002, we introduced our subsidiary, Protiviti, a global independent risk consulting and internal audit service, to support companies as they faced more strategic business challenges.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Ramon, CA, US

Year founded

1948