ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Payroll Associate Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Knife River Corporation

PAYROLL MANAGER

Tangent, OR · On-site

Review pre-payroll for accuracy of time entry for personnel, wages, fringes and compliance with ... Excellent human relations skills in dealing with associates, employees, other department heads ...

MSR Technology Group

OR · On-site

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

EDUCATION An Associates degree in Accounting or General Business or Certified Payroll Professional is preferred. EXPERIENCE AND REQUIREMENTS A minimum of five years of relevant payroll experience The ...

Team JCK LLC

Payroll Coordinator

Eugene, OR · On-site

$22.50 - $30.25/hr

Associate's Degree in Accounting or related field Skills & Competencies Familiarity with payroll systems (e.g., in-house or cloud-based platforms) Strong math and analytical skills Proficiency in MS ...

JCK Restaurants

Payroll Coordinator

Eugene, OR · On-site

$22.50 - $30.25/hr

Associate's Degree in Accounting or related field Skills & Competencies Familiarity with payroll systems (e.g., in-house or cloud-based platforms) Strong math and analytical skills Proficiency in MS ...

LHH US

Payroll Specialist

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$33.65 - $40/hr

Payroll Specialist Location: Beaverton, OR Job Type: Contract, Fully Onsite, Full Time Compensation ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

ILB Electric

Payroll Specialist

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

A working knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping processes, at a level normally acquired through an associate degree in business administration or accounting; and * 2 years' experience in payroll.

LHH US

Payroll Specialist

Portland, OR

$24 - $28/hr

In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable. Equal ...

LHH US

Payroll Specialist

Beaverton, OR

$33.65 - $40/hr

Payroll Specialist Location: Beaverton, OR Job Type: Contract, Fully Onsite, Full Time Compensation ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Cascade Living Group

Payroll Manager

Salem, OR · On-site

$110K/yr

At Cascade Living Group, our mission is to create a culture where associates are valued, supported ... Doing the Right Thing If you are a payroll leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and ...

Cascade Living Group

Payroll Manager

Salem, OR

$90K - $110K/yr

At Cascade Living Group, our mission is to create a culture where associates are valued, supported ... Doing the Right Thing If you are a payroll leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and ...

Pride Electric, Inc.

Payroll Specialist

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

A working knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping processes, at a level normally acquired through an associate degree in business administration or accounting; and * 2 years' experience in payroll.

Everus Communications

Payroll Specialist

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

A working knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping processes, at a level normally acquired through an associate degree in business administration or accounting; and * 2 years' experience in payroll.

OneSource Virtual

Payroll Services Supervisor

OR · Remote

Payroll, benefits, and finance solutions - all in one place. ** Must be available until 6 pm PST as ... Evaluate associates on performance and complete annual performance appraisals. * Work in ...

LHH US

Payroll Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable. Equal ...

OneSource Virtual

Payroll Services Supervisor

OR · Remote

Payroll, benefits, and finance solutions - all in one place. ** Must be available until 6 pm PST as ... Evaluate associates on performance and complete annual performance appraisals. * Work in ...

City of Bend, OR

Payroll Administrator

Bend, OR · On-site

$80K - $102K/yr

Associate's Degree; AND * Experience: At least 2 years' experience providing payroll processing and support; OR * An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPayroll Associate JobsPayroll Associate Jobs in Oregon

Payroll Associate information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$25

$41

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Oregon is $25.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.56 and $28.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is payroll assistant entry level?

A payroll assistant role is typically considered entry level and often requires minimal prior experience. Basic skills in data entry, attention to detail, and familiarity with payroll software are usually sufficient for starting in this position.

Do you need a degree to be a payroll associate?

A degree is not typically required to become a payroll associate, but employers often prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include knowledge of payroll software, attention to detail, and understanding of payroll laws and regulations.

What do payroll associates do?

Payroll associates are responsible for processing employee compensation, ensuring accurate and timely payment through data entry, calculations, and record keeping. They often use payroll software and must adhere to company policies and legal regulations related to wages and taxes.

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.

Is payroll under HR or finance?

Payroll associates typically work within the finance or accounting department, as payroll involves managing employee compensation, taxes, and deductions. However, payroll functions often collaborate closely with HR to ensure accurate employee data and compliance with policies. The specific department can vary by organization, but payroll is generally considered part of finance or a specialized payroll team.

What are Payroll Associates?

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 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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Payroll Associate job openings:
Payroll Associate jobs near you
PAYROLL MANAGER

PAYROLL MANAGER

Knife River Corporation

Tangent, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Knife River rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provide overall management and direct the day-to-day operations of the company's Payroll department, including:
    • Balancing competing demands for department resources
    • Interviewing and hiring new team members
    • Providing guidance and feedback to facilitate professional development
    • Annual employee evaluation process
    • Compensation decisions
    • Employee relation issues
  • Review pre-payroll for accuracy of time entry for personnel, wages, fringes and compliance with applicable state/federal laws and collective bargaining agreements
  • Provide weekly/monthly certified payroll reports to appropriate internal departments, appropriate subcontractors and governmental agencies, and answer questions as needed
  • Manage pay rate tables for public and private work, including BOLI, Davis Bacon and union pay templates
  • Completion of monthly union trust reporting including accurately reporting hours, wages fringes, vacation payouts, and overseeing annual audit requests
  • Ensure compliance with applicable wage/hour laws and collective bargaining agreements
  • Continuously refine the payroll service delivery model with input and agreement from our business unit customers
  • Answer employee questions of their payroll and research/resolve problems or concerns regarding the payroll function
  • Build and maintain good customer relationships with business units
  • Ensure adequate design, testing and documentation requirements are met for Sarbanes Oxley compliance. Review and approve control documentation submitted with each payroll processed. Act as primary liaison with business unit management for resolving payroll-related accounting issues ensuring the accurate recording of required financial statement balances.
  • Research changes in the payroll profession and develop/refine procedures that will continually improve the operational efficiency and meet service levels of the Payroll Organization
  • Foster a culture that promotes ethical practices and legal compliance, excellence in customer service, individual integrity, teamwork and employee innovation and accountability
  • Exercise responsibility for compliance with Federal and State payroll tax laws and regulations
  • Communicate changes in payroll standards, laws and guidelines to department members and management including assisting in the development of manuals and other training materials
  • Continuously assess risk factors related to confidentiality of employee information
  • Interact with accounting auditors and respond to auditor requests
  • Responsible for the operation of the JD Edwards computer system payroll module and coordination of related functions with KRC payroll shared services staff
  • Perform other tasks and special projects as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 5 years payroll experience managing a weekly, high-volume payroll
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbally. This position will interact with all levels of the organization along with external customers and agencies.
  • High attention to detail with the ability to maintain accuracy in a fast-paced environment
  • Excellent math and problem-solving skills
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office applications and electronic payroll systems
  • Must have high ethical standards and the ability to maintain confidential information
  • Be able to manage people and maintain constructive relationships with others

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS
  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting or related field
  • Certified Payroll Experience Highly Preferred
  • Experience with a multi-union payroll in the construction industry
  • Experience with JD Edwards, Kronos and Heavy Job software
  • Minimum of two years managing complex and competing priorities for multiple customers

KEY SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
  • Thorough knowledge of multi-state payroll, compensation and labor laws.
  • Ability to proactively identify and creatively address issues/solve problems is critical
  • Proficient use of personal computers and strong knowledge of system applications, particularly in the payroll/human resources area
  • Excellent human relations skills in dealing with associates, employees, other department heads, external/internal auditors, and representatives of governmental offices
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively communicate with all levels within the organization and with business associates outside the organization.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of the employee payroll file information

This position is in office and full-time at our Tangent, Oregon location.
Additional Information:
Benefits:
Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:
-Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
-Health Savings & Flexible Spending Accounts
-401K with Company Match
-Profit Sharing
-8 Paid Holidays
-Paid Time Off
-Life Insurance
-Employee Assistance Program
-Years of Service Recognition
How To Apply
To be considered for this position, candidates must complete and submit an employment application at jobs.kniferiver.com by the posting deadline noted above. If unable to complete an application online you may print and send completed application to any Knife River NW address or stop in one of our locations to complete an application.
Knife River 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.
If you are an individual with a qualified disability as defined by federal, state, or local law and require reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application for any reason, please contact your state employment agency or you may call 541-693-5960 to speak with a human resources representative.
Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background check.
Veterans: Put Your Skills to Work with Us!
At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are constantly looking to add veterans to our workforce and want to make the transition as smooth as possible. There are many jobs within the military that are transferable to our Payroll Supervisor position:
Army: Finance Specialist
Coast Guard: Storekeeper
Navy: Logistics Specialist, Accounting Officer
Marines: Finance Technician, Management Specialist
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

Apply