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Entry Level Payroll Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Howard Hanna Holdings

Payroll Specialist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

This is an entry level position, training will be provided! Specific responsibilities include, but ... Act as back-up for other payroll specialists as needed. Special knowledge, skills and abilities ...

Shenandoah University

Payroll Specialist

Winchester, VA · On-site

$40K - $42K/yr

The Payroll Specialist position is a member of the Finance team and is responsible for processing ... This entry-level position requires a Bachelor's Degree from four-year College or University ...

Shenandoah University

Payroll Specialist

Winchester, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

The Payroll Specialist position is a member of the Finance team and is responsible for processing ... This entry-level position requires a Bachelor's Degree from four-year College or University ...

Altman Specialty Plants

Jr Payroll Specialist

Vista, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Job Title: Jr. Payroll Specialist Department: Payroll Reports to: Director of Payroll FLSA Status ... Under the direct supervision of the Director of Payroll, perform entry-level payroll tasks with a ...

The Animal Hospital

Payroll Specialist

Clayton, MO · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Payroll Specialist CareVet - Clayton, MO The Company CareVet's mission is to a build a network of ... We are also open to candidates who are looking for an entry-level HR or accounting job, who have ...

Superior Construction

Payroll Specialist

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Summary/Objective The Payroll Specialist position is an entry-level payroll professional that is responsible for initiating, reviewing, and processing payroll. Essential Functions Reasonable ...

CareVet

Payroll Specialist

Clayton, MO · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Payroll Specialist CareVet - Clayton, MO The Company CareVet's mission is to a build a network of ... We are also open to candidates who are looking for an entry-level HR or accounting job, who have ...

Calvin University

Payroll Specialist

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Job Title: Payroll Specialist Job Status: Full time, Exempt Summary The Payroll Specialist is ... Entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply. * Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite ...

Calvin University

Payroll Specialist

Grand Rapids, MI

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Job Title: Payroll Specialist Job Status: Full time, Exempt Summary The Payroll Specialist is ... Entrylevel candidates are encouraged to apply. * Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite ...

Edina Public Schools

Payroll Specialist

Minneapolis, MN

$33.15 - $38.90/hr

Payroll Specialist Location: District-wide | Status: Non - Exempt | Schedule: 40 Hours/Week (MF ... New hires will typically start at the entry-level rate within the wage range, while candidates with ...

New

Edina Public Schools

Payroll Specialist

Edina, MN · On-site

$33.15 - $38.90/hr

Payroll Specialist Location: District-wide | Status: Non - Exempt | Schedule: 40 Hours/Week (M F ... New hires will typically start at the entry-level rate within the wage range, while candidates with ...

New

Ttmtech

Payroll Specialist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

... and detail-driven Payroll Specialist to join our myHR Services team. This is an excellent ... considered for entry-level candidates) * Attention to Detail: Demonstrated ability to handle ...

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Entry Level Payroll Specialist information

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$15

$27

$39

How much do entry level payroll specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level payroll specialist in the United States is $27.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Payroll Specialist vs Payroll Clerk?

AspectEntry Level Payroll SpecialistPayroll Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles prefer associate degree; basic payroll software knowledgeHigh school diploma; familiarity with payroll processes
Work EnvironmentOffice setting; collaborative teams; payroll software systemsOffice environment; data entry and administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various industries including finance, healthcare, and retailCommon in small to medium-sized businesses; retail and manufacturing sectors
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking to start payroll careers or entry-level roles in payrollIndividuals seeking administrative payroll support roles

The main difference is that an Entry Level Payroll Specialist typically has a broader understanding of payroll processes and may handle more complex tasks, while a Payroll Clerk focuses on data entry and administrative duties. Both roles are essential in payroll operations, but the specialist position often requires more training or familiarity with payroll software.

What does an entry level payroll specialist do?

An Entry Level Payroll Specialist is responsible for assisting with the preparation and processing of employee payroll. Their tasks typically include entering and verifying employee data, calculating hours and wages, ensuring timely payments, and maintaining payroll records. They may also help answer employee questions about paychecks and deductions, as well as support compliance with tax and labor regulations. This role is a great starting point for those interested in human resources or finance careers.

How to get your first job in payroll?

To secure an entry-level payroll specialist position, candidates should develop basic knowledge of payroll processes, tax regulations, and payroll software such as ADP or QuickBooks. Gaining relevant skills through online courses or certifications and highlighting attention to detail and confidentiality in applications can improve chances of getting hired.

Is an entry level payroll specialist a difficult job?

An entry level payroll specialist role involves tasks such as processing payroll, maintaining employee records, and ensuring compliance with tax laws, which require attention to detail and basic knowledge of payroll software. While it can be straightforward for those with strong organizational skills, it may be challenging initially due to the need for accuracy and understanding of payroll regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level payroll specialists, and how can they be successfully managed?

Entry level payroll specialists often encounter challenges such as staying up-to-date with changing tax regulations, managing tight deadlines during payroll cycles, and ensuring absolute accuracy in data entry. Successfully managing these challenges involves developing strong attention to detail, regularly reviewing payroll policies, and seeking guidance from senior team members when uncertainties arise. Building proficiency with payroll software and maintaining open communication with HR and accounting teams also helps streamline processes and prevent errors.

How to get started as an entry level payroll specialist?

To start as an entry-level payroll specialist, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and develop skills in data entry, math, and attention to detail. Familiarity with payroll software such as ADP or QuickBooks and understanding of basic payroll laws can improve job prospects; some positions may require certification or training in payroll processing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level payroll specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Payroll Specialist, you need a basic understanding of payroll processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or associate degree in accounting or a related field. Familiarity with payroll software such as ADP, QuickBooks, or Paychex, and basic proficiency in Microsoft Excel are typically required. Strong organizational skills, integrity, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and confidentiality in handling employee data. These skills and qualities are important to maintain compliance, prevent payroll errors, and support smooth payroll operations.

Do you need experience to be an entry level payroll specialist?

Entry level payroll specialists typically do not need prior experience, as these roles are designed for individuals new to the field. Employers often seek candidates with basic computer skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of payroll software or spreadsheets, and on-the-job training is common.
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Entry Level Payroll Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Payroll Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,982 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Payroll Specialist, Full-Time or Part-Time

Workplace Hcm, Inc.

Marlton, NJ • On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Summary
Workplace HCM's Payroll Specialist manages the client relationship with Workplace HCM. This person will support multi-product clients with technical assistance, training, and general service inquiries. This position includes the ability to manage calendars relating to payroll processing, training, and proactive client activity management.
Responsibilities
Qualified candidates will be accountable for the following responsibilities:
  • Manage a shared client group of 1700 - 2000 clients
  • Monitor the client system and identify issues as they arise
  • Manage the daily payroll process to produce timely payroll for clients
  • Maintain proper documentations of client communications
  • Proactively manage operational controls, such as survey reviews, tax edits, returns, and quarter and year-end activity
  • Maintain a long-term relationship with every client assigned to you
  • Provide backup for other specialists as needed
  • Meet daily metrics regarding client retention, phone measurements, call quality, and management of escalations of client issues
  • Other related tasks as assigned

Requirements
Qualified candidates must possess the following qualities:
  • Excellent client services and technical support skills
  • One-year office experience preferred
  • Ability to work with multiple departments
  • Ability to multi-task and work independently
  • Exceptional verbal and written communications skills
  • Proficient in Windows based software
  • Ability to excel in a fast-paced, service oriented position
  • Must be able to work overtime as needed
  • Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred

Benefits
Part-time/Full-time Team Members receive both PTO and Sick Time.
Other Full-Time Benefits:
  • Single coverage at 100% (Medical/Rx/Vision)
  • 401k after 6 months
  • Voluntary Dental & Supplemental Insurance Options
  • Paid Holidays

Schedule:
Full-Time: Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5pm
Part-Time: Tuesday - Thursday, 8:30am - 5pm
Compensation:
  • Entry Level Payroll Specialist I - $16.50-$20 per hour
  • Payroll Specialist II - $20 - $25 per hour
  • Senior Payroll Specialist - $25 - $36 per hour

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