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Entry Level Payroll Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

... for entry-level roles, including job postings, candidate screening, interview coordination ... Serve as backup to the Payroll and Benefits Specialist. Minimum Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

... for entry-level roles, including job postings, candidate screening, interview coordination ... Serve as backup to the Payroll and Benefits Specialist. Minimum Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Entry Level Payroll information

See Portland, ME salary details

$15

$28

$40

How much do entry level payroll jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level payroll in Portland, ME is $28.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.46 and $31.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level payroll job?

Entry level payroll jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the payroll field and typically require minimal prior experience. These roles focus on assisting with the processing of employee pay, maintaining payroll records, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and company policies. Entry level payroll professionals often work under the supervision of more experienced payroll staff, gaining foundational knowledge and skills in payroll systems, data entry, and payroll regulations. These positions are an excellent starting point for those interested in a career in payroll or human resources.

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 strong numerical accuracy, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of payroll processes, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in accounting or related field. Familiarity with payroll software like ADP, QuickBooks, or Paychex, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Excel, is typically required. Strong organizational skills, confidentiality, and effective communication set candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure payroll is processed accurately and on time, maintaining compliance and employee trust.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level payroll professionals, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level payroll professionals often encounter challenges such as learning complex payroll software, staying updated with changing tax regulations, and ensuring data accuracy under tight deadlines. To overcome these, it's helpful to proactively seek training on software systems, regularly review compliance updates, and develop strong organizational habits. Collaborating closely with HR and finance teams can also provide valuable support and insights, helping you build confidence and competence in your role.

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

AspectEntry Level PayrollPayroll Clerk
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer basic accounting knowledgeHigh school diploma; familiarity with payroll software often preferred
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often in HR or finance departmentsOffice environment, handling payroll processing and record keeping
Employer & Industry UsageCommon entry point in various industries including retail, healthcare, and corporateTypically employed in similar industries, focusing on payroll processing tasks
Comparison Search IntentUnderstanding entry-level payroll roles and responsibilitiesClarifying duties and qualifications of payroll clerks

Entry Level Payroll positions are designed for individuals starting in payroll, often requiring basic education and some familiarity with payroll processes. Payroll Clerks usually perform similar tasks but may have more specific experience or responsibilities. Both roles serve as foundational positions in payroll administration within various industries.

Is entry level payroll hard to get into?

Entry level payroll positions are generally accessible to candidates with basic math, attention to detail, and computer skills. Many employers offer on-the-job training, and relevant certifications like payroll certification can improve job prospects. The role often requires a high school diploma or equivalent and some familiarity with payroll software or spreadsheets.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level payroll?

Entry level payroll positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, basic math skills, and familiarity with payroll software or spreadsheets. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to handle confidential information are also important qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Portland, ME are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Payroll jobs in Portland, ME?

For Entry Level Payroll jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Payroll jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Payroll jobs in Portland, ME are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Payroll job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,126 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Human Resources Generalist

MEMIC

Portland, ME • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

The HR Generalist provides broad operational support across the Human Resources function, with responsibility for leave management, HRIS reporting, employee data administration, onboarding, orientation, offboarding, record retention, and recruitment support. This role serves as a reliable resource for employees, managers, HR Business Partners, and the broader HR team by ensuring HR processes are accurate, timely, compliant, and employee focused.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
* Enter, maintain, audit, and validate employee data in HR systems, ensuring accuracy, completeness, confidentiality, and consistency across employee records, dashboards, and reporting tools.
* Coordinate onboarding activities for new employees and interns, including documentation, welcome communications, required forms, internship program support, and related employee setup activities.
* Prepare, maintain, and distribute HRIS reports and dashboards, including headcount, turnover, new hire, termination, leave management, compliance, and other workforce reports as requested.
* Support HRIS workflow improvements, employee lifecycle transactions, tracking tools, and process enhancements to improve accuracy, efficiency, and reporting capability.
* Maintain employee personnel records, HR files, filing systems, and related documentation in accordance with company policies, legal requirements, and retention schedules.
* Assist with HR audits, compliance requests, employment law update tracking, and documentation needs by organizing, retrieving, reviewing, and validating employee records.
* Assist with the administration of employee leaves of absence, including intake, tracking, documentation, communication, and coordination with third-party administrators, managers, employees, payroll, and benefits partners.
* Partner with the T&TD team to support annual training rollout, track completion, and assist with required follow-up to ensure team members complete assigned training.
* Assist with recruitment for entry-level roles, including job postings, candidate screening, interview coordination, candidate communication, offers, background checks, reference checks, and pre-employment documentation.
* Support Employment Practices Liability Insurance program administration, including claim intake, reconciliation, payment processing, internal tracking, and coordination with HR, legal, finance, and insurance contacts.
* Plan, coordinate, and support quarterly employee engagement activities, including communications, logistics, participation tracking, and follow-up as needed.
* Maintain HR-related social media content and monitor/respond to employment, recruiting, and social platform reviews in a timely, professional, accurate, and brand-consistent manner.
* Serve as backup to the Payroll and Benefits Specialist.
Minimum Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
* Two or more years of HR experience, preferably in a generalist, HR coordinator, or HR operations role.
* Experience with HRIS data entry, reporting, employee records, onboarding, offboarding, and recruitment coordination.
* Working knowledge of employment laws, leave administration practices, record retention requirements, and HR compliance obligations.
* Experience handling confidential information with discretion and sound judgment.
* Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, HR systems, reporting tools, and online recruiting or social media platforms.
* HR certification such as SHRM-CP or PHR preferred but not required.
* Maintain a high level of professionalism, accuracy, responsiveness, and customer service in all HR interactions.
* Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
* Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, and deadlines.
* Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills.
* Customer-service mindset and ability to build positive relationships with employees, managers, vendors, and HR colleagues.
* Comfort working independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment.
MEMIC is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetics, gender identity, veteran's status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. Additionally, we are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience for all candidates. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the interview process, please contact us at hr@memic.com.
To ensure an equitable and authentic interview process, candidates should not use AI or chatbot tools during the live interview or phone screen. We welcome any preparation you choose to do beforehand, but all responses shared during the interview must be your own.
Note: MEMIC does not offer Stem-OPT EAD Extension for this role.
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Check out our benefit offerings here! Targeted salary range: $60-$75,000