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Payroll Associate Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

City of Worcester, MA

HEAD CLERK

Worcester, MA · On-site

$26.29 - $31.71/hr

Associate Degree in business/public administration, finance, accounting, or other related discipline * Five (5) years of experience performing payroll accounting functions SALARY RANGE: $26.29 - $31 ...

City of Worcester

HEAD CLERK

Worcester, MA · On-site

$26.29 - $31.71/hr

Associate Degree in business/public administration, finance, accounting, or other related discipline * Five (5) years of experience performing payroll accounting functions SALARY RANGE: $26.29 - $31 ...

The Salvation Army

Senior Sales Associate

Springfield, MA · On-site

$16/hr

Complete the payroll information for all staff * Receive applications and participate in interviews as requested * Train, direct, and supervise new employees. * The Senior Sales Associate will ensure ...

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Payroll Associate information

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$15

$26

$42

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Massachusetts is $26.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $29.66 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 Massachusetts?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Payroll Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,311 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Accounting Specialist, Payroll and Retirement Plans

MEDITECH

Canton, MA • Hybrid

$57K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 hours ago

Meditech rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

Description

The Accounting Specialist, Payroll and Retirement Plans is responsible for calculating and providing monthly and biweekly payroll, which is 50% of the time. The remainder of the time is spent administering the functions of the company's Profit Sharing Trust and supporting its 401(k) plan, which is administered in conjunction with outside service providers, independently. Additionally, this role supports the company's payroll, shareholder, and benefits functions. As a member of our Accounting team, your job would involve:


Payroll

  • Processing biweekly and monthly payroll for 3500+ employees across multiple states; calculating the correct amount, incorporating overtime, deductions, bonuses, etc., with the assistance of a computer system
  • Understanding the workflow of the payroll cycle and using the payroll vendor appropriately
  • Demonstrating payroll knowledge through the quality and quantity of work
  • Processing parental leaves, leaves of absence, time without pay, and terminations
  • Processing changes in schedules, health insurance, taxes, and other information
  • Maintaining and documenting all payroll records and staff members' personnel files
  • Receiving approval from upper management for payments when needed
  • Processing salary changes, deductions, bonuses, vacation payouts, and benefits payments for staff members
  • Working with outside companies to complete employment verifications for past and current employees
  • Responding to payroll queries from staff members promptly
  • Analyzing payroll issues and recommending corrective actions.

Profit Sharing Trust Retirement Plan

  • Addressing member questions regarding loans and distributions
  • Preparing distribution paperwork, processing distributions and applicable withholding taxes
  • Administering loan policies, including follow-up processes
  • Processing loan applications, preparing loan payment calculations
  • Processing year-end tax forms (1099s)
  • Monitoring cash flow.

401(k) Retirement Plan

  • Addressing member questions and guiding them through the provider's website when needed
  • Working with service providers to support plan operations
  • Working with service providers to broadcast financial wellness offerings and educational materials
  • Maintaining the plan's fiduciary responsibilities, including monitoring performance of the plan, its service providers, and fees
  • Coordinating communications to staff and the internal fiduciary committee.

Overall Retirement Plan Responsibilities

  • Preparing year-end audit work papers and assisting with year-end audit
  • Preparing/verifying annual reports, compliance testing, and Form 5500 filings
  • Monitoring legislative changes and working with service providers to implement plan changes.

General Accounting Support

  • Supporting payroll processing and benefits administration functions
  • Shareholder services support (dividends, change of direct deposit, and mailing address changes)
  • Assisting with projects
  • Supporting year-end activities
  • Maintaining confidentiality; protecting staff members' data as identified in state and federal laws and internal controls.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's or associate degree with coursework in accounting preferred and/or 2-3 years of applicable work or military experience
  • Previous retirement plan administration experience
  • Previous accounting/payroll experience
  • General knowledge of the accounting cycle
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, numerical aptitude
  • Ability to interact effectively with all levels of management
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Exceptional organizational skills
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
  • Knowledge of Excel spreadsheets and spreadsheet functions
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

Hiring salary range: $57,600 - $69,600 per year. 

Actual salary will be determined based on an individual's skills, experience, education, and other job-related factors permitted by law.


MEDITECH offers competitive employee benefits including but not limited to health, dental, & vision insurance; profit sharing trust and 401(k); tuition reimbursement, generous paid time off, sick days, personal time, and paid holidays. 


This is a hybrid role which includes a blend of in-office and remote work as designated by the management team.  


In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. MEDITECH will not sponsor applicants for work visas.

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