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Entry Level Payroll Specialist information

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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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
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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.

Employee Life Cycle Coordinator

BY YOUR SIDE-Autism Therapy Services

Oak Brook, IL • Hybrid

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

General Summary

The BY YOUR SIDE Life Cycle Coordinator is responsible for providing administrative and clerical support functions for various Human Resources services to support the leaders and employees at BYS. The HR Coordinator responsibilities include onboarding, orientation, offboarding, retention, Unemployment Claims, basic payroll functions and company policies and practices.

The Coordinator is responsible for supporting the HR department with managing tasks and providing administrative support to all employees at the direction of the HR Manager. Responsible for entering and maintaining data in multiple systems including the HRIS, entry level payroll experience is a plus. Must own maintenance of personnel files, will need to have basic knowledge of FMLA, I-9 USCIS Work Auth, IDOL, EEOC, ADA and Workmen’s Compensation including all regulatory requirements of an HR Department and HR supporting role. A previous entry level HR role with 9 months - 2 years of experience is a strong PLUS to support success in the role. The HR Coordinator will also support Onboarding, Orientation, Engagement, Benefits, Personnel File Maintenance and legal required documentation in the day-to-day operation of an HR Department.

The Coordinator always operates in a professional and ethical manor and sets the example with regards to interfacing with employees while answering incoming inquiries to the department, supporting other roles and supporting various department leaders to meet needs.

This is a full time position and hours of work and days may vary based upon the needs of the business. Your required work schedule will be split between multiple centers (Naperville, Plainfield, Tinley Park, Darien in IL), with the home base being flexible based on geography and need. This role also supports an employee population based in IL, GA and CO. Position could work remotely after training possibly one or two days a week as responsibilities and department integration and agility increase.

We Offer

  • Compensation: $21-$23/hour
  • Full benefits package (health insurance, dental, vision)
  • 4 weeks paid time off per calendar year
  • Paid Holidays
  • 401K with Company Match
  • Brand new facilities, with a clean and safe work environment
  • Employee Recognition Program

Essential Functions, Duties & Responsibilities

Core duties and responsibilities include the following:

  • Schedule, assist and create all onboarding documents, conduct remote orientation (pre and post), including i9 verifications and compliance testing, generally every other week.

  • Supports background screens and ensures compliance as part of onboarding process.

  • Processing all status changes within the required systems ensuring timely communication with department heads and teams.

  • Support the maintenance of all online training (HIPAA, Bloodborne Pathogen, Mandated Reporter and Sexual Harassment) within designated platform.

  • Educate newly hired employees on HR policies, internal procedures and regulations.

  • Oversee and input all new hires in the HRIS; as well as into any required peripheral software, support all integration projects and software changes as needed.

  • Maintain and audit all personnel digital files and upload their documents into personnel files.

  • Follow up with employee engagement plans, meet and greets and stay interviews.

  • Preparing all anniversary certificates, keeping track of gifts and preparing updates and assisting the HR staff for distribution.

  • Perform various administrative and clerical functions for the HR Department

  • Assist with any payroll initiatives.

  • Other duties and special projects as assigned.

Skills Required

Include demonstrated competencies and physical, mental, & interpersonal skills

  • Bachelor's degree required, Human Resource Management strongly preferred.
  • 12+ months experience in a human resource coordinator or specialist role required.
  • Experience with orientation, onboarding and offboarding strongly preferred.
  • Must be able to appropriately handle confidential and sensitive information. Experience handling such information is required.
  • Understanding of State and Federal policies, such as, HIPAA, EEO and ADA.
  • Must have a high level of initiative and be able to work effectively without constant, direct supervision.
  • Flexibility and dependability with schedule as orientation locations may change.
  • Must be responsible, adaptable, honest and reliable.
  • Ability to work effectively and efficiently with constant changing priorities and deadlines in this fast-pace organization.
  • Excellent time management skills with the ability to multi-task, prioritize, execute on deadlines and produce high-quality deliverables with great attention to details.
  • Must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Reliable transportation and the ability to travel as needed.
  • Strong verbal, written, communication and collaboration skills required.
  • Must have a positive “can do” attitude, a people person; as well as a Team Player.
  • Payroll experience a strong plus.
  • Advanced computer skills in Microsoft Office Products, including data entry, data processing, and communication tools.
  • Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.