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Payroll Associate Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Clerk

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree in accounting or finance preferred. * Proven experience as a payroll clerk or in a similar role. * Strong knowledge of payroll software and ...

Payroll Representative

Duluth, MN · On-site +1

$23.06 - $34.59/hr

Associate's degree plus 1 year of experience OR * 3 years of experience in a customer service, human resources, or payroll environment Required Qualifications: * Excellent communication and ...

Payroll Representative

Duluth, MN · On-site +1

$23.06 - $34.59/hr

Associate's degree plus 1 year of experience OR * 3 years of experience in a customer service, human resources, or payroll environment Required Qualifications: * Excellent communication and ...

Payroll Lead

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$63K - $98K/yr

An associate degree and four years of related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. REQUIRED SKILLS: * Proficiency with business collaboration tools such as MS Office ...

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Business, Accounting, Finance or related field or equivalent experience Experience: Minimum of 5+ years of progressive payroll processing ...

Payroll Lead

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$63K - $98K/yr

An associate degree and four years of related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. REQUIRED SKILLS: * Proficiency with business collaboration tools such as MS Office ...

PAYROLL SPECIALIST

Annandale, MN · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Associate or Bachelor's degree with concentration in accounting/finance. Or equivalent of direct experience in payroll or accounting. * Experience in a payroll position in a fast-paced environment ...

Bachelor's degree or Associate's degree with 1+ year of payroll experience. * Experience working in a payroll environment, preferably supporting large or multi-state employee populations. * Strong ...

Bachelor's degree or Associate's degree with 1+ year of payroll experience. * Experience working in a payroll environment, preferably supporting large or multi-state employee populations. * Strong ...

Payroll Administrator

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$25 - $36.05/hr

Bachelor's degree or Associate's degree with 1+ year of payroll experience. * Experience working in a payroll environment, preferably supporting large or multi-state employee populations. * Strong ...

Bachelor's degree or Associate's degree with 1+ year of payroll experience. * Experience working in a payroll environment, preferably supporting large or multi-state employee populations. * Strong ...

Payroll Manager

Belle Plaine, MN · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Business, Accounting, Finance or related field or equivalent experience Experience: Minimum of 5+ years of progressive payroll processing ...

Payroll Specialist

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$33.15 - $38.90/hr

Associate's degree, and a minimum of three (3) years experience in payroll or related field. Compensation & Benefits: The wage for this position ranges from $33.15 to $38.90 per hour, depending on ...

UKG Payroll Administrator

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$25 - $36.05/hr

Bachelor's degree or Associate's degree with 1+ year of payroll experience. * Experience working in a payroll environment, preferably supporting large or multi-state employee populations. * Strong ...

Payroll Specialist

Edina, MN · On-site

$33.15 - $38.90/hr

Associate's degree, and a minimum of three (3) years experience in payroll or related field. Compensation & Benefits: The wage for this position ranges from $33.15 to $38.90 per hour, depending on ...

Showing results 21-40

Payroll Associate information

See Minnesota salary details

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$23

$38

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Minnesota is $23.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $26.59 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 Minnesota?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,705 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Payroll Clerk

Atlas Manufacturing

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and organized Payroll Clerk to join our team in Minneapolis, MN, 55414. In this role, you will play a crucial part in ensuring that our employees are paid accurately and on time. If you have a knack for numbers and a passion for helping others, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities
  • Process payroll for all employees, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies and regulations.
  • Maintain employee records, including hours worked, deductions, and benefits.
  • Respond to payroll inquiries from employees and resolve any discrepancies.
  • Prepare and distribute payroll reports to management as needed.
  • Assist in the preparation of year-end tax documents, such as W-2s and 1099s.
  • Stay updated on payroll regulations and best practices to ensure compliance.
  • Collaborate with HR to manage employee benefits and deductions.
  • Assist the Accounting department with Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, and other accounting functions
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree in accounting or finance preferred.
  • Proven experience as a payroll clerk or in a similar role.
  • Strong knowledge of payroll software and Microsoft Excel.
  • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality.
  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Prior experience with UKG payroll software preferred

You should be proficient in:

  • Accounts Payable (AP)
  • Accounts Receivable (AR)
  • payroll processing
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