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Payroll Associate Jobs in Cullman, AL (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Specialist

Hartselle, AL · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

Associate or bachelor's degree in accounting, Business or related field preferred. * Proven experience as a Payroll Specialist or in a similar role. * Experience with UKG Pro platform preferred.

The Associate HR Generalist provides strategic and operational support to employees and leaders ... In this role, you will communicate and consult on key areas of Human Resources-including payroll ...

... including payroll, scheduling, and cash register deposits and receipts), and loss prevention ... Help the Store Manager supervise, train, and develop Store Associates * Ensure a positive, safe ...

... including payroll, scheduling, and cash register deposits and receipts), and loss prevention ... Help the Store Manager supervise, train, and develop Store Associates * Ensure a positive, safe ...

Lead, mentor, and develop all store associates and direct reports, fostering a positive and safe ... payroll budgets. * Compliance & Safety: Ensure strict adherence to all company practices ...

Payroll Associate information

See Cullman, AL salary details

$12

$21

$34

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Cullman, AL is $21.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $23.94 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 Cullman, AL?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Cullman, AL are:

What cities near Cullman, AL are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities near Cullman, AL with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Cullman, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,874 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Payroll Specialist

PowerGrid Services, LLC

Hartselle, AL • On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely execution of payroll, following assigned payroll-related practices and procedures, and maintaining Company compliance with current and future wage and hour legislation. This position supports all PowerGrid affiliated business entities, and both internal and field employees.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Process weekly multi-state payroll, ensuring that all employees are paid accurately and timely.

  • Maintain payroll information by collecting, calculating, and entering data into the payroll system.

  • Calculate new hire pay, termination pay and any adjustments to normal payroll, process expense reimbursements and setup garnishment deductions.

  • Verify accuracy of timekeeping records and work with the Billing Department to resolve any discrepancies.

  • Respond to employee inquiries concerning timekeeping, payroll, tax calculations, vacation accruals, etc. and resolve any issues or concerns.

  • Conduct regular payroll and benefit audits to confirm payments, deductions, and billing are accurate.

  • Work with payroll provider and internal Payroll and Accounting Departments to resolve tax discrepancies.

  • Assist with the completion of online state registrations for new state income tax and unemployment tax withholdings.

  • Prepare and distribute weekly payroll reports to management.

  • Assist in the preparation of financial reports related to payroll and participate in audits when necessary.

  • Assist in the preparation and audit of year-end W2 and 1095C Forms, ensuring that these and other required notices are distributed timely.

  • Maintain knowledge of federal, state and local payroll regulations. Ensure the company's policies, procedures and reporting are in compliance with these regulations.

  • Streamline procedures within the department to facilitate efficient processing of payroll data.

  • Maintain accurate records and ensure confidentiality of sensitive information.

  • Develop documentation, to include "How To" documents, workflow processes, separation of duties for our current staff, with updates as the company grows to ensure best practices are maintained.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications of employees assigned to this job.
Education, Certifications, Licenses and Experience:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent is required. Associate or bachelor's degree in accounting, Business or related field preferred.

  • Proven experience as a Payroll Specialist or in a similar role.

  • Experience with UKG Pro platform preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • In-depth knowledge of payroll best practices and relevant regulations.

  • Strong understanding of payroll software and ability to effectively use it to process payroll.

  • Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, with particular emphasis on creating and manipulating Excel formulas and pivot tables.

  • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality regarding sensitive employee information.

  • Experience working in a fast paced and demanding environment.

  • Excellent organization and time management skills.

  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

  • High level of professionalism and integrity.

Work Conditions:
  • Work is performed in an office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment such as a computer, keyboard, mouse, phone, printer, scanner, copier, filing cabinet, etc.

  • Consists of sedentary work. Ability to life up to 10 pounds.

  • Substantial movements of the hands, wrists, and/or fingers.

  • Required to have close visual acuity to perform activities such as preparing and analyzing data and figures or viewing a computer screen.

Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as requested to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
PowerGrid Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer.
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.