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Payroll Associate Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Bilingual Payroll Associate (Sterling, VA Area) Title: Bilingual Payroll Associate Location: Sterling, VA area Job Type: Contract or ContracttoHire Overview Cherry Bekaert Recruiting and Staffing is ...

... associates; support Workday system updates and testingSenior Payroll Analyst - Ensure Accurate, Compliant Payroll for a Large WorkforcePayroll Analyst | Payroll Processing | Workday Payroll | Multi ...

... associates; support Workday system updates and testing Senior Payroll Analyst - Ensure Accurate, Compliant Payroll for a Large Workforce Payroll Analyst | Payroll Processing | Workday Payroll | Multi ...

... associates; support Workday system updates and testingSenior Payroll Analyst - Ensure Accurate, Compliant Payroll for a Large WorkforcePayroll Analyst | Payroll Processing | Workday Payroll | Multi ...

... associates; support Workday system updates and testing Senior Payroll Analyst - Ensure Accurate, Compliant Payroll for a Large Workforce Payroll Analyst | Payroll Processing | Workday Payroll | Multi ...

Corporate Payroll Administrator

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$28.84 - $31.25/hr

More than that, we know our Associates are the shining stars of what we do! We understand what it ... Process the payroll for assigned pay groups from start to finish * Oversee and participate in the ...

Payroll Principal Coordinator

Mclean, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $30.25/hr

This Payroll Principal Coordinator will work closely with Capital One associates to answer their payroll questions and resolve any issues with a key focus on associate experience. The ideal candidate ...

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Payroll Associate information

See Washington salary details

$16

$27

$44

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Washington is $27.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.86 and $30.77 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 Washington? The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Payroll Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,323 per year, or $27.1 per hour.
Bilingual Payroll Associate

Bilingual Payroll Associate

Cherry Bekaert

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Cherry Bekaert rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 22 rated bookkeepers and accountants


Job description

Bilingual Payroll Associate (Sterling, VA Area)
Title: Bilingual Payroll Associate
Location: Sterling, VA area
Job Type: Contract or ContracttoHire
Overview
Cherry Bekaert Recruiting and Staffing is partnered with an organization seeking a Bilingual Payroll Associate to support payroll administration, employee inquiries, and data accuracy. This role is ideal for a detailoriented payroll professional who enjoys working directly with employees and collaborating with HR and accounting teams.
Key Responsibilities
  • Support payroll processing, time entry review, and data validation
  • Respond to employee payroll questions in both languages
  • Assist with onboarding payroll setup and ongoing employee maintenance
  • Support payroll reconciliations and reporting
  • Maintain payroll documentation and meet strict deadlines

Qualifications
  • 1-3+ years of payroll or payrollrelated experience preferred
  • Bilingual verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail and confidentiality
  • Excel skills and payroll/timekeeping system experience a plus

What Cherry Bekaert employees say

Hours and flexibility

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