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Payroll Assistant Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Specialist

Kenosha, WI ยท On-site

$23 - $31.25/hr

Support payroll tax activities (as applicable): review tax filings, assist with tax reconciliation, and coordinate with payroll vendor/tax service. * Maintain internal controls for payroll processing ...

This role requires the ability to assist with problem solving and demands a high level of focus ... Payroll Tax Updates: Collaborate with other payroll team members to update tax changes using ...

This role requires the ability to assist with problem solving and demands a high level of focus ... Payroll Tax Updates: Collaborate with other payroll team members to update tax changes using ...

This role requires the ability to assist with problem solving and demands a high level of focus ... Payroll Tax Updates: Collaborate with other payroll team members to update tax changes using ...

Payroll Administrator

New Berlin, WI ยท On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Post payroll to the general ledger and reconcile payroll related schedules * Assist with HR functions, including onboarding and responding to employee inquiries * Maintain confidentiality and ...

... * Assist employees with payroll, time-off and 401(k) related questions * Adjust employee's timecards as needed * Audit W-2s and T-4s, payroll balance sheets, YTD earnings, etc. * Partner with HR and ...

Payroll Administrator

New Berlin, WI ยท On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Address and resolve employee payroll inquiries in a timely manner * Assist with audits and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations Expense Management * Review, process, and reconcile ...

Payroll Specialist

Mukwonago, WI ยท On-site

$23.25 - $31.50/hr

Maintain field employees' files and resumes up to date. * Assist with the completion of union key ... Experience with payroll functions and ability to handle a voluminous amount of paperwork.

Support payroll consulting engagements across a range of clients, industries, and geographies * Assist in assessing and improving client payroll processes, controls, and procedures * Perform ...

Associate Plant Accountant

Burlington, WI ยท On-site

$42K - $65K/yr

Provide support with the processing of weekly hourly payroll. Assist in the preparations of month-end closings of the financials for the plant. Maintain accounting and payroll files and backup ...

Serve as a subject matter resource and escalation partner for project-related payroll questions, risks, dependencies, and operational impacts * Assist with payroll tax and payroll process daily ...

Weekly Payroll Operations - Hourly Workforce * Own end-to-end accountability for accurate, on-time weekly payroll processing for all hourly employees (union and non-union) across 6 companies and ...

HR Generalist

Waukegan, IL ยท On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Coordinate and facilitate new employee orientation and onboarding processes Compensation, Benefits & Payroll * Assist with market analysis and ensure internal/external pay equity * Support benefits ...

Weekly Payroll Operations - Hourly Workforce * Own end-to-end accountability for accurate, on-time weekly payroll processing for all hourly employees (union and non-union) across 6 companies and ...

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Payroll Assistant information

See Racine, WI salary details

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How much do payroll assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll assistant in Racine, WI is $20.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $23.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Payroll Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Payroll Assistant, you need strong attention to detail, basic accounting knowledge, and familiarity with payroll laws, typically supported by a relevant diploma or associate degree. Proficiency with payroll software such as ADP, QuickBooks, or SAP, along with Microsoft Excel, is commonly required. Excellent organizational skills, discretion, and clear communication help build trust and ensure accuracy in processing sensitive payroll information. These skills are critical to ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time while maintaining compliance with legal and organizational standards.

What qualifications do I need for payroll?

A payroll assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer or require postsecondary education or certifications in accounting or payroll processing. Strong attention to detail, proficiency with payroll software and spreadsheets, and knowledge of payroll laws and regulations are also important qualifications for the role.

What are some common challenges Payroll Assistants face when managing payroll for a large organization?

Payroll Assistants in large organizations often encounter challenges such as handling high volumes of data, ensuring compliance with complex and frequently changing tax laws, and meeting tight deadlines for payroll processing. Attention to detail is crucial since small errors can affect employee satisfaction and legal compliance. Additionally, Payroll Assistants must collaborate closely with HR and finance departments to verify timesheets, resolve discrepancies, and maintain accurate records, making strong communication skills essential.

What Does a Payroll Assistant Do?

A payroll assistant provides administrative support in the payroll department. As a payroll assistant, your duties include entering payroll data, processing new hire paperwork, and making changes related to tax withholding and employee benefits. You also help create detailed documents outlining payroll for the company or organization and may perform additional clerical tasks as needed.

What does a payroll assistant do?

A payroll assistant supports the payroll department by processing employee wages, ensuring accurate calculation of hours, deductions, and taxes. They often use payroll software, verify data accuracy, and maintain records to ensure employees are paid correctly and on time.

How long does it take to become a payroll assistant?

Becoming a payroll assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, and some employers may prefer candidates with basic knowledge of payroll software or accounting. On-the-job training usually lasts a few weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the company's payroll system and the individual's prior experience. Gaining relevant skills and certifications can enhance job prospects but does not significantly extend the initial training period.

Is payroll more HR or accounting?

Payroll assistants primarily work within the payroll or accounting departments, focusing on processing employee wages, deductions, and tax filings. While payroll involves understanding HR policies related to compensation, it is generally considered part of the accounting function due to its emphasis on financial transactions and record-keeping. The role often requires familiarity with payroll software and compliance with tax regulations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Racine, WI? The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Racine, WI are:
What job categories do people searching Payroll Assistant jobs in Racine, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Payroll Assistant jobs in Racine, WI are:
What cities near Racine, WI are hiring for Payroll Assistant jobs? Cities near Racine, WI with the most Payroll Assistant job openings:
Payroll Specialist

$23 - $31.25/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for accurate and timely payroll processing for hourly and salaried employees in a food manufacturing environment. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour requirements; maintains payroll records and controls; resolves employee pay issues; and partners with HR, Finance, and plant leadership to support payroll operations. The Payroll Specialist upholds confidentiality, demonstrates strong attention to detail, and supports continuous improvement of payroll processes.
Payroll Processing & Administration
  • Process weekly/biweekly payroll for hourly and salaried populations, ensuring accuracy of earnings, deductions, taxes, and net pay.
  • Audit timekeeping data (punches, meal periods, shift differentials, premiums, PTO, attendance points if applicable) for completeness and adherence to policy.
  • Maintain and update employee payroll records (new hires, terminations, transfers, rate changes, direct deposit, W-4 updates).
  • Execute off-cycle checks, final pay, pay corrections, retro pay, and manual checks as needed.
  • Balance payroll registers, reconcile totals, and validate payroll reports prior to submission/approval.

Compliance & Controls
  • Ensure compliance with wage and hour laws, garnishment requirements, and company payroll policies (including state-specific rules where applicable).
  • Process and manage garnishments, child support, levies, and other involuntary deductions; respond to agency notices and maintain documentation.
  • Support payroll tax activities (as applicable): review tax filings, assist with tax reconciliation, and coordinate with payroll vendor/tax service.
  • Maintain internal controls for payroll processing, including segregation of duties, audit trails, and secure handling of confidential data.
  • Interpret and apply CBA provisions affecting wages, premiums, holiday pay, call-in pay, shift bids, and overtime rules; coordinate issues with HR/Labor Relations.

Timekeeping & Systems Support
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for timekeeping and payroll system issues, troubleshooting and coordinating fixes with HRIS/payroll vendors.
  • Provide guidance to supervisors and employees on timecard procedures, pay codes, and payroll deadlines.
  • Support system testing, upgrades, and configuration changes; document processes and job aids.

Employee Support & Service
  • Respond to payroll inquiries promptly and professionally; investigate discrepancies and communicate resolution clearly.
  • Educate employees on pay statements, deductions, PTO payouts, and tax withholding updates.
  • Partner with HR on onboarding/offboarding to ensure accurate pay, benefits deductions, and final pay requirements.

Reporting & Reconciliation
  • Prepare payroll-related reports for Finance/HR (labor distribution, overtime, headcount, accruals, PTO liabilities, audit support).
  • Assist with monthly/quarterly reconciliation processes (general ledger feeds, labor allocations, benefit deductions).
  • Support internal and external audits by providing requested payroll documentation and explanations.

Qualifications
Required
  • High school diploma or GED required; Associate's degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, or related field preferred.
  • 2+ years of payroll processing experience (multi-state and/or hourly workforce preferred).
  • Working knowledge of payroll concepts: earnings/deductions, taxes, wage and hour compliance, and record retention.
  • Proficiency with payroll/timekeeping systems and Microsoft Excel (lookups, pivots, filtering, basic formulas).
  • Strong attention to detail, confidentiality, and ability to meet strict deadlines.

Preferred (Manufacturing Advantage)
  • Experience in food manufacturing, plant operations, or 24/7 shift environments.
  • Exposure to union payroll rules, CBAs, shift differentials, premiums, and attendance programs.
  • Experience with garnishments and agency compliance workflows.
  • Familiarity with payroll-to-GL reconciliation and labor distribution.

Key Competencies
  • Accuracy & quality control (auditing, reconciliation, error prevention)
  • Customer service mindset (clear communication, issue resolution)
  • Confidentiality & integrity
  • Deadline-driven execution (payroll calendars, cutoff adherence)
  • Process improvement orientation
  • Collaboration with HR, Finance, Operations, and IT/HRIS

Work Environment & Physical Demands (Adjust as Needed)
  • Office environment
  • Ability to sit/stand for extended periods and work at a computer.

Schedule
Typical schedule: Monday-Friday with flexibility during payroll close.
Equal Opportunity Employer