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Payroll Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Administrative Associate Job details Posted 10 July 2026 Location Lakewood, Nashville, TN 37138 ... Pay period close procedures - Sign off and produce SAP timefiles for Payroll. * Keep necessary ...

Process client payroll, and assist with tax deposits. * Record client accounting transactions, and ... Associate's Degree or near completion required. Bachelor's Degree preferred. * No experience ...

Administrative Associate/ HR Time Management Analyst Duration: 6 months + possible extension ... Pay period close procedures - Sign off and produce SAP timefiles for Payroll. * Keep necessary ...

New

Process client payroll, and assist with tax deposits. * Record client accounting transactions, and ... Associate's Degree or near completion required. Bachelor's Degree preferred. * No experience ...

Position HR Associate (Junior to Mid-level) Headcount: 1 Location Shelbyville, TN, USA Employment ... Payroll administration * HR administrative support * Support for client/customer audit processes

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Payroll Associate information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$21

$35

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Tennessee is $21.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Payroll Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,135 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Admin.Records School Finance Payroll I

Admin.Records School Finance Payroll I

Metro Nashville Public Schools

Nashville, TN • On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Metro Nashville Public Schools rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

111th of 575 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description


5001003

Job Code:5001003
Job Family/Function:50 - Finance and Audit\Accounting 
FLSA:Nonexempt 
Grade Ladder:MNPS Support Hourly 
Pay Grade:MNPS.SCH008-H 
Duration (days/year):260 
Locations(s):School-Based 
We Are Team MNPS
Metro Schools is one of the largest and most diverse school districts in the United States. Our teachers and staff educate more than 80,000 students in Metro Nashville-Davidson County, preparing them to excel in higher education, work, and life. Our district implements some of the most innovative reform strategies in the nation. We seek to partner with highly effective, engaging teachers, teacher leaders and support staff with a passion for urban education and a go-getter spirit as we strive to become the highest-performing urban district in the nation. Whether you are a teacher, an administrator, or a potential support staff employee, if you want to make a difference, we want to hear from you.
Job Summary
Financial record duties: Routinely calculates, reviews, creates, posts, & verify financial transactions & reports in appropriate accounting software & proper account(s) to ensure accuracy as required for the function & operation of the school. Reviews financial transactions & any other school financial documents to ensure compliance with the Tennessee Internal School Uniform Accounting Policy manual (TISUAPM) and MNPS policies & procedures to safeguard public funds. Knowledgeable of the TISUAPM and MNPS policies & procedures as well as informing all school staff and Principal of these policies & procedures at all times. Communicates effectively & works closely with other MNPS departments. Payroll duties: Compiles and records employee time, attendance, and payroll data for school based employees and substitutes. Computes employees' time worked, production, and stipends for bi-weekly payroll. Compiles and submits substitute attendances', appraisals, and utilizes Smartfind in lieu of substitute forms and documentation
What you will do

  • Reviews, records, summarizes, posts and verifies numerical and financial data to compile and keep financial records accurate, using accounting software, reports, journals and ledgers.
  • The school secretary clerk or principal designee will record monies depending upon various circumstances. (i.e. no other personnel to complete the collection log). The school secretary clerk or principal designee in the absence of the bookkeeper, receives and verifies all monies, and secures them in a safe or vault until the funds can be turned over to the bookkeeper to verify, receipt, and make deposit of all cash and checks in accordance with the TISUAPM & MNPS policy. Bookkeeper prepares school purchase orders for all School Fund expenditures as properly authorized by Principal. Verifies accounts on computer spreadsheets and software to ensure fund availability to make school purchases. Pays invoices timely within 30 days. Prepares student activity fund monthly bank reconciliation using specialized accounting software. Provides accurate financial information and explanations for internal & external auditors for the purpose of the annual individual school audit and district audit.
  • Compiles statistical and financial documentation for such matters as cash receipts, expenditures, and accounts payable and receivable.
  • Complies with federal, state and company policies, procedures and regulations. Codes documents according to company procedures. Reconciles, notes and/or reports discrepancies found in records.
  • Reviews time sheets, work charts, wage computations, and other information to detect and reconcile payroll discrepancies.
  • Verifies attendance, hours worked, and pay adjustments, and post information onto designated records. Computes and compiles employee time, production, and payroll data from time sheets and other records.
  • Records employee information, such as exemptions, transfers, and resignations, to maintain and update payroll records.
  • Keeps track of leave time, such as vacation, personal, comp-time, and sick leave, for employees. All other duties as assigned.


Education Qualifications

  • Associate's Degree in Business, Accounting, or Finance Required


Experience Qualifications

  • 1-3 years of previous financial work-related skill, knowledge, or experiences Required


Skills and Abilities

  • Payroll software, Accounting, Bookkeeping, Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel)
At Metro Nashville Public Schools, we use detailed academic, behavior and social-emotional data to ensure every student in the district is known and our staff makes a concerted effort to tune into students' interests, passions, learning styles and needs. We focus on creating and supporting rigorous, engaging and personalized learning experiences for all students to identify and eliminate inequities - so every student has a clear and achievable path to success marked by measurable goals.

Offering a range of program and opportunities, MNPS has options to fit every family's needs. Whether you are looking for advanced academics, visual and performing arts, special education services, English language support or STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) educational programs, we offer the best choices to meet individual student needs - starting at Pre-K all the way through graduation.

Our Vision
Metro Nashville Public Schools will be established as the premier large school district in Tennessee and beyond by ensuring that every student is known.

Our Mission 
We deliver a great public education to every student, every day.

Our Core Values
Core values drive and focus our collective commitments included in our mission and vision. These values reflect the principles that guide our internal conduct, as well as our relationships with the external community. Our core values are woven throughout our goals, high-level strategies, and performance measures.

Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all individuals. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools is dedicated to creating an inclusive work environment that reflects the diversity of our global community. We strive to treat all employees and applicants with respect and fairness, and we make employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. The American Disabilities Act (ADA) requires MNPS to provide adequate accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

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