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Entry Level Payroll Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Payroll Specialist

Niles, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Process payroll for approximately 300 hourly employees and 80-100 salaried employees. * Calculate ... entry-level positions to the C-suite. With units specializing in Accounting and Finance ...

Payroll Specialist

Seattle, WA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Globally unified systems Entry Level 0-2 years of experience * Maintain all payroll data, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and confidentiality * Verify accuracy of timesheets and correct any ...

Globally unified systems Entry Level 0-2 years of experience * Maintain all payroll data, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and confidentiality * Verify accuracy of timesheets and correct any ...

This is not an entry-level payroll role and is not intended to be a transactional payroll analyst ... specialist responsibility. * Support payroll cycles through analysis, validation, audit review ...

This is not an entry-level payroll role and is not intended to be a transactional payroll analyst ... specialist responsibility. * Support payroll cycles through analysis, validation, audit review ...

This is not an entry-level payroll role and is not intended to be a transactional payroll analyst ... specialist responsibility. * Support payroll cycles through analysis, validation, audit review ...

This is not an entry-level payroll role and is not intended to be a transactional payroll analyst ... specialist responsibility. * Support payroll cycles through analysis, validation, audit review ...

Our client is a national leader for employee payroll and tax services. They are seeking an Entry level Tax Specialist to join their growing team in Sterling, VA. As a tax specialist, you will play an ...

... entry level payroll experience is a plus. Must own maintenance of personnel files, will need to ... specialist role required. * Experience with orientation, onboarding and offboarding strongly ...

Showing results 21-40

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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What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll Specialist jobs?

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The top searched job categories for Entry Level Payroll Specialist jobs are:

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.

$21.23/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Kyrene School District rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 631 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Position Type:
Education Support Professional - District Based/Administrative Support Specialist
Date Posted:
7/23/2026
Location:
Ben Furlong Education Center - District Office
Description: Will perform specialized duties requiring significant experience in the area of Business Services. The incumbent will assist in the resolution of complex workplace problems; reviewing and assisting in budget, grant and planning document development; money handling; banking records, deposit preparation, tracking budget, payroll, accounting, and expenditure information.
Duties and Responsibilities: Provides administrative support to the area of assignment in Business Services such as: Maintaining budget, accounting, and purchasing processes including preparing worksheets, determining allocations, processing purchase requisitions, generating fixed assets and other reports, monitoring financial reports, money handling, deposit preparation, reconciliation and entering financial data into the system; and updating accounts payable. Knowledge with banking, online payments and accounts receivable processes is preferred.
Complete Job Description: Administrative / Support Specialist
Qualifications: High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D.) and two years of specialized experience related to area of assignment, or any combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job. Demonstrated knowledge of modern office methods, practices, policies and procedures; word processing and data entry skills required (Microsoft Word, Excel & Outlook). Ability to take initiative, problem-solve, and make independent decisions. Valid IVP Level One AZ Fingerprint Clearance Card is required.
Employment Information: 2026-27 school year; 40 hrs per week; 260 days per school year
Salary: Support Band B 22 - $21.23/hr entry level (with benefits, ACA and vacation time)
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About Kyrene School District

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kyrene School District is one of Arizona’s leading public school districts, providing excellence in education for over 135 years. Kyrene is known for high academic achievement, with schools consistently outperforming peer districts, charter schools, and state averages on AzMERIT and other academic benchmarks. Kyrene comprises 26 schools (17 elementary, six middle, and three K-8). District boundaries encompass all of Ahwatukee and parts of Chandler, Guadalupe, Tempe, and the Gila River Indian Reservation. Kyrene enrolls approximately 14,000 students in grades K-8 and offers preschool options on every single elementary school campus.

Industry

Elementary and secondary schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tempe, AZ, US

Year founded

1888