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Payroll Associate Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Ross

Assistant Store Manager

Columbia, SC · On-site

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

Ross Stores

Assistant Store Manager

Columbia, SC · On-site

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

Ross Stores

Assistant Store Manager

Columbia, SC · On-site

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

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Sales Manager

Columbia, SC

... service and associate training), and process (standard operating procedures and compliance ... Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs and communicate ...

Ulta Beauty

Sales Manager

Columbia, SC · On-site

... service and associate training), and process (standard operating procedures and compliance ... Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs and communicate ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Sales Manager

Columbia, SC · On-site

... service and associate training), and process (standard operating procedures and compliance ... Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs and communicate ...

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All JobsPayroll Associate JobsPayroll Associate Jobs in Columbia, SC

Payroll Associate information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$11

$19

$31

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Columbia, SC is $19.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $22.16 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 Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Payroll Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,606 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Regional Payor Contracting Associate (remote, home based - South Carolina)

Fundamental Administrative Services, LLC

Columbia, SC • Remote

$68K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Fundamental Administrative Services rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

449th of 492 rated business services

Job description

*This position is remote, home based out of South Carolina (must live in South Carolina to be considered).


Fundamental Clinical & Operational Services, LLC is searching for an experienced Regional Payor Contracting Associate to focus on MCO and payor contracting for multiple client skilled nursing facilities and  Behavioral Health Hospital located in South Carolina.  This position will report directly to the Director of Payor Strategy & Contracting.


USD $68,000.00 - USD $85,000.00 /Yr.
The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience, education and training, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.

The Regional Payor Contracting Associate will (externally) work with MCO/Payors on the full life cycle of managed care contracting, including managed care contract inquiries, credentialing and rate negotiations.

The Regional Payor Contracting Associate will (internally) work directly with client skilled nursing facilities, behavioral health hospital and associated departments to develop payor portfolios, provide education and support with operationalizing contracts, assist with payor issue resolution and departmental process development.


  • Able to organize and prioritize many tasks efficiently combined with the demonstrated ability to be detail oriented.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal day-to-day direct instruction.
  • General knowledge of skilled nursing (SNF) claims submission/payment process.
  • 3+ years of experience with MCO/SNF contracting process required, behavioral health contracting not required but preferred.
  • Must have skilled nursing experience, prefer candidate with previous experience as managed care contractor/coordinator, experience with credentialing and contracting adjacent.
  • Bachelors Degree required.
  • Must be fluent with MSOffice Suite – Outlook, Excel, Word.
  • Demonstrated superior communication skills both written and verbal – will be required to make presentations in a professional manner

All of our employees are valued and receive a competitive wage; full time team members are also offered a comprehensive benefit package which includes:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Tuition Reimbursement & Loan Repayment Programs
  • PerkSpot - Local Deals and Weekly Perks Program
  • 401(k)
  • Vacation/Holiday/Sick Pay Plan
  • Pet Insurance Discount 
  • DailyPay option available! Get your pay, when you need it
  • Purchasing Power - online purchase/payroll deduction
  • Tickets at Work - entertainment ticket discounts
  • Employee Assistance Plan - easy-to-use services to help with everyday challenges of life (available for all employees and their families)
  • Helping Friends Foundation - our employees hardship/crisis fund
  • Auto and Home Insurance - employee discount available & payroll deduction

Drug Free, Smoke-Free work place. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets

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