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Payroll Associate Jobs in Mississippi (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Clerk

Monticello, MS · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Associates or Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or related field, with course work in business, math, accounting, bookkeeping and record keeping or * 2 years of some successful payroll processing ...

Payroll and Benefits Manager

Flowood, MS · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Associate degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field. * 5+ years of payroll and benefits administration experience, including 2+ years in a leadership or management role.

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

Retail Associate

Gulfport, MS · On-site

$12/hr

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

Stock Associate

Gulfport, MS · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Our Stock Associates can learn the stockroom inside and out. Energetic and observant, you work ... You can also payroll deduct your purchases. Flexible schedules to fit your lifestyle and career ...

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Payroll Associate information

See Mississippi salary details

$13

$22

$37

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Mississippi is $22.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $25.72 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 Mississippi?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Mississippi are:

What cities in Mississippi are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities in Mississippi with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Mississippi as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,097 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Payroll & Benefits Associate

Mississippi Food Network

Pearl, MS • On-site

$52K - $60K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Department:  Human Resources

Location: Jackson, MS

Employment Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Salary Range: $52,000-$60,000 (Based on Experience)

Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

About Mississippi Food Network

The Mississippi Food Network (MFN) changes lives by fighting hunger today and feeding hope for a healthier tomorrow.

As the only Feeding America-affiliated food bank serving Mississippi, Mississippi Food Network is dedicated to ending hunger by providing food, building strategic partnerships, and delivering innovative programs that increase access to nutritious food across 56 counties in central Mississippi. Working alongside more than 430 partner agencies, volunteers, donors, and community leaders, MFN is committed to building a stronger, healthier Mississippi where no one goes hungry.

At MFN, our culture is built on collaboration, compassion, innovation, and service. Every team member plays an important role in creating lasting community impact while advancing our mission of eliminating hunger throughout our state.

Why Join Our Team?

At Mississippi Food Network, your work has purpose. As part of our team, you'll help strengthen one of the largest hunger-relief networks in the state while building meaningful relationships with community partners who serve thousands of families every day.

We invest in our employees through professional development opportunities, a collaborative and mission-driven workplace, competitive benefits, and the opportunity to Fight Hunger, Feed Hope throughout Mississippi each day.

Position Summary

The Payroll & Benefits Associate is responsible for the day-to-day management and administration of the organization's payroll and employee benefits functions. This position ensures accurate and timely payroll processing, tax compliance, benefits administration, retirement plan coordination, and leave administration. Works in coordination with CHRO to ensure HRIS payroll system integrity. The Payroll & Benefits Associate ensures compliance with federal and state regulations. Responsible for payroll related financial reconciliations, benefit accounting, and audit support. The Payroll & Benefits Associate promotes operational excellence through process improvement, data analysis, compliance oversight, and exceptional customer service to employees and stakeholders.

What You'll Do

·        Process bi-weekly payroll, including wages, deductions, garnishments, accruals, adjustments, and supplemental payments.

·        Maintain and review employee records to ensure compensation, organizational structure, and employment status changes are accurate and properly documented.

·        Support grant administration by providing required payroll-related documentation.

·        Complete payroll month-end, quarter-end, and year-end activities, including reconciliations and reporting.

·        Partner with the CHRO to investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies and complex payroll issues.

·        Administer employee benefits, including enrollments, eligibility, life event changes, terminations, and annual open enrollment.

·        Review benefit enrollment and billing records, verify insurance premium statements, and coordinate issue resolution with carriers and brokers.

·        Assist with payroll and benefits audits, compliance reviews, and retirement plan administration.

·        Maintain confidentiality and ensure compliance with organizational policies and applicable regulations.

·        Perform other related duties as assigned.

 

Qualifications

Required

·        BS/BA degree from an accredited college/university in human resources, business administration or related field required.

  • 5+ years of experience in human resources, including at least 3 years in payroll processing.

·        Knowledge of standard payroll accounting concepts, general ledger reconciliations, payroll tax accounting and benefit accounting and internal controls.

·        Experience with ADP Workforce or comparable HRIS/payroll systems strongly preferred.

·        Experience administering retirement plans, benefit programs, payroll and leave programs required.

·        Knowledge of payroll regulations wage and hour laws and benefit administration.

·        Excellent interpersonal skills, including confidentiality.

·        Ability to work in an organized and efficient manner, prioritizing tasks and responsibilities.

·        Proficient in Microsoft Office.

·        Commitment to Mississippi Food Network's mission of fighting hunger and feeding hope.

Benefits

Mississippi Food Network offers a competitive benefits package that includes:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Professional Development Opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employer

Mississippi Food Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees and applicants are treated with dignity and respect. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

 

Email Applications to Humanresources@msfoodnet.org with the subject line of the position for which you are applying.

Questions? Contact Pamela Rideout, Chief Human Resources Officers, at prideout@msfoodnet.org.