1

Payroll Associate Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

PAYROLL CLERK

Kailua Kona, HI · On-site

$20.75 - $27/hr

Associate's degree in accounting, business or another related field. * 2-4 years' experience in a payroll processing position. * 1 year experience in human resources. Duties and/or Responsibilities:

Manage personal timecards to ensure payroll accuracy. * Maintain Tumi University Training. * Adhere to all company policies and procedures. Visual Merchandising/Client Experience: * Ensure the store ...

Responsible for payroll administration including daily punch edits, Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed. Organizational Development Assists ...

Responsible for payroll administration including daily punch edits, Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed. Organizational Development Assists ...

Responsible for payroll administration including daily punch edits, Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed. Organizational Development Assists ...

Responsible for payroll administration including daily punch edits, Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed. Organizational Development Assists ...

Responsible for payroll administration including daily punch edits, Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed. * Organizational Development

Responsible for payroll administration including daily punch edits, Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed. * Organizational Development

Responsible for payroll administration including daily punch edits, Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed. Organizational Development Assists ...

Responsible for payroll administration including daily punch edits, Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed. * Organizational Development

Responsible for payroll administration including daily punch edits, Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed. * Organizational Development

Responsible for payroll administration including daily punch edits, Associate scheduling compliance, Sunday payroll transmission, and Payroll reporting as needed. Organizational Development Assists ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Payroll Associate information

See Hawaii salary details

$14

$24

$40

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Hawaii is $24.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a payroll associate?

Payroll Associates are professionals responsible for processing employee paychecks, ensuring accurate calculation of wages, withholding taxes, and managing payroll records. They verify timesheets, resolve discrepancies, and comply with federal and state payroll regulations. Payroll Associates often collaborate with human resources and accounting departments to maintain accurate financial records and support employee inquiries regarding compensation. Their work is essential for ensuring employees are paid correctly and on time.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Associate, you need a solid understanding of payroll processes, accounting principles, and attention to detail, often supported by a degree in finance, accounting, or related fields. Familiarity with payroll software such as ADP, QuickBooks, or Paychex, and sometimes certification like FPC or CPP, is typically required. Strong organizational skills, discretion, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure accurate and timely payroll processing, compliance with regulations, and confidentiality of sensitive employee information.

What are some common challenges a payroll associate might face, and how can they be addressed?

Payroll Associates often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines during payroll cycles, handling sensitive employee data with confidentiality, and staying updated with frequently changing tax regulations. Effective time management and strong attention to detail are essential to avoid errors and ensure compliance. Collaborating closely with HR and finance teams can help resolve discrepancies quickly and maintain smooth payroll operations.

What is the difference between Payroll Associate vs Payroll Clerk?

AspectPayroll AssociatePayroll Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles prefer accounting or HR certificationsHigh school diploma; basic understanding of payroll processes
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often part of HR or finance teamsOffice environment, handling administrative payroll tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various industries, including corporate, healthcare, and retailCommonly found in similar industries, often overlapping with payroll roles
Comparison Search IntentUnderstanding role differences, career progressionClarifying job responsibilities, entry-level payroll tasks

The Payroll Associate typically has more responsibilities related to payroll processing, compliance, and data management, often requiring some certifications or experience. The Payroll Clerk usually handles administrative payroll tasks, focusing on data entry and record keeping. Both roles are essential in payroll operations, but the Payroll Associate often has a broader scope and may serve as a stepping stone to more advanced payroll or HR positions.

How do you become a payroll associate?

To become a payroll associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with strong attention to detail and proficiency in payroll software or spreadsheets. Relevant skills include understanding payroll laws and regulations, and some employers may prefer candidates with prior experience or certifications in payroll or accounting. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with tools like ADP or QuickBooks can be advantageous.

Is doing payroll a hard job?

Payroll associates are responsible for processing employee wages, ensuring accuracy, and complying with tax laws, which requires attention to detail and knowledge of payroll software. The job can be straightforward but may involve handling complex calculations, deadlines, and sensitive information, making it moderately challenging depending on the organization’s size and complexity.

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Hawaii?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Hawaii are:

What cities in Hawaii are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities in Hawaii with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Hawaii as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,667 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

$20.75 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Knife River rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

298th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Minimum Requirements:
  • Strong payroll background with 2 plus years' experience with accounting or another business-related field.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and other Microsoft Office software programs.
  • High degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Organized and accurate.
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

Preferred Requirements:
  • Associate's degree in accounting, business or another related field.
  • 2-4 years' experience in a payroll processing position.
  • 1 year experience in human resources.

Duties and/or Responsibilities:
  • Promote Company Purpose, Mission, and Vision statements while living Company Values.
  • Answer team member questions related to payroll or other employment policies; troubleshoot errors/issues and respond in a timely manner.
  • Complete weekly payroll processing steps in a timely, efficient and accurate manner and work with supervisors on discrepancies in data.
  • Prepare, process, and submit certified payroll reports and employee documentation in full compliance with prevailing wage and labor regulations when required.
  • Pre-audit data and verify authenticity of output in daily payroll and file maintenance.
  • Resolve problems concerning payroll and ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal wage and hour laws.
  • Responsible for working with PRSS to assure accurate information/data in the payroll module.
  • Responsible for balancing payroll runs.
  • Reviews wages and corrects errors to ensure accuracy.
  • Records changes affecting new wages for each employee.
  • Complete timecard data entry or import from external sources.
  • When and where applicable, submit Davis-Bacon trust transfer amount weekly, coordinate monthly Davis Bacon deposit, verify certified payroll reporting and sub-contractors reports and report non-scale jobs information for federal or state reporting.
  • In coordination with Payroll Shared Services, prepare manual payroll drafts as required for errors or terminations.
  • Verify accuracy of re-employment earnings and hours.
  • Working with Payroll Shared Services, verify child support and wage garnishments.
  • Interact and communicate with HR, Accounting and Supervisors on a continual basis.
  • Accurately perform data entry into UKG, Workforce Central and/or other Information Systems as required.
  • Maintain records regarding leave, company sponsored, State, and/or Federal, utilized by team members.
  • Prepare and maintain team member files.
  • Prepare new employee orientation materials and assist with onboarding.
  • Assist human resources and/or administrative team with various tasks and special projects.
  • Always work safe and take action to prevent any and all unsafe actions, processes, and behaviors.
  • Performs such similar, comparable or related duties as may be assigned or required.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Strong knowledge of MS Office Suite products and proficient math skills.
  • Ability to work independently, make sound decisions under pressure, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to demonstrate professionalism, tact, diplomacy, and critical thinking skills when dealing with employees and the public.
  • Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and meet deadlines.

Benefits:
  • Medical, dental, prescription, & vision insurance
  • Flexible Spending accounts
  • 401K with Company match
  • Profit sharing
  • 11 paid holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Safety Incentives
  • Years of Service Recognition
  • Vacation and sick pay

How To Apply:
West Hawaii Concrete is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.
We are a drug free work environment requiring pre-employment drug testing, background check, and functional capacity evaluation.
You may apply online at https://jobs.kniferiver.net
If unable to apply online, please mail completed application to:
WHC, Ltd. (Attn: Susan)
P.O. Box 1390
Kailua-Kona, HI 96745
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Knife River employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom