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Payroll Associate Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Supervisor

Denver, CO · On-site

$97K - $120K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field preferred. * CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification preferred. * Experience with Certified Payroll ...

Payroll Supervisor

Denver, CO · On-site

$97K - $120K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field preferred. * CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification preferred. * Experience with Certified Payroll ...

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field preferred. * CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification preferred. * Experience with Certified Payroll ...

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field preferred. * CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification preferred. * Experience with Certified Payroll ...

Associate's degree in Accounting, Business, or a related field. * Experience processing multi-state payroll. * Experience in construction, engineering, AEC, manufacturing, or similar industrial ...

Posted today

Payroll Specialist

Denver, CO · On-site

$24.25 - $33/hr

Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required;associate degree or payroll certification preferred. Two or more years of experience in payroll,timekeeping, HR operations ...

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Payroll Specialist

Denver, CO · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Required Qualifications · High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or payroll certification preferred. · Two or more years of experience in payroll, timekeeping, HR operations ...

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Payroll Associate information

See Highlands Ranch, CO salary details

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How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Highlands Ranch, CO is $25.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $28.51 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 Highlands Ranch, CO? The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO are:
What cities near Highlands Ranch, CO are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs? Cities near Highlands Ranch, CO with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Financial Consulting Senior Associate - Payroll Services (Workday)

RSM

Denver, CO • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

We are the leading provider of professional services to the middle market globally, our purpose is to instill confidence in a world of change, empowering our clients and people to realize their full potential. Our exceptional people are the key to our unrivaled, culture and talent experience and our ability to be compelling to our clients. You’ll find an environment that inspires and empowers you to thrive both personally and professionally. There’s no one like you and that’s why there’s nowhere like RSM.

RSM’s Payroll Services practice is looking for a dynamic Senior Payroll Specialist with a team-oriented mindset and a love for collaborating and helping clients solve problems. You will be an expert resource, with senior level knowledge in payroll processing, client support, payroll workflows and platforms.

Responsibilities:

  • Processing weekly and biweekly full cycle, multi-state payroll for RSM’s clients. Expected to have deep understanding of payroll compliance and payroll tax laws
  • Will reconcile and work on tax balancing against per pay cycle, as well as per quarterly and per annual tax filings
  • Year-end processing
  • Prepare and distribute payroll reports to clients and internal leaders
  • Maintain strong relationships both internally and externally with key stakeholders in client organizations
  • Proactively identify problems, unexpected data trends and determine root cause to offer our clients a solution
  • Continuously learn and stay informed about changes in payroll regulations to ensure compliance with federal, state and local laws
  • Maintain advanced knowledge of multiple payroll software products
  • Always maintain confidentiality of client information
  • Operate seamlessly with multiple levels of client organizations
  • Comfort in executive presentations, project forecasting, and the consulting operating rhythm

Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of full cycle payroll processing experience in a multi-state or international environment
  • Experience with ADP Workforce Now
  • Microsoft Office 365, Excel (including basic formulas and VLOOKUPs)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Excellent critical thinking skills with an emphasis on problem-solving
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to meet deadlines
  • Ability to travel up to 20% of the time

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s in Accounting, Finance or related field
  • Prior experience working in an outsource PEO environment or professional services is preferred
  • CPP or FCP certification is strongly preferred
  • Experience with Canadian payroll
  • Experience in Global payroll

At RSM, we offer a competitive benefits and compensation package for all our people. We offer flexibility in your schedule, empowering you to balance life’s demands, while also maintaining your ability to serve clients. Learn more about our total rewards at https://rsmus.com/careers/working-at-rsm/benefits.

All applicants will receive consideration for employment as RSM does not tolerate discrimination and/or harassment based on race; color; creed; sincerely held religious beliefs, practices or observances; sex (including pregnancy or disabilities related to nursing); gender; sexual orientation; HIV Status; national origin; ancestry; familial or marital status; age; physical or mental disability; citizenship; political affiliation; medical condition (including family and medical leave); domestic violence victim status; past, current or prospective service in the US uniformed service; US Military/Veteran status; pre-disposing genetic characteristics or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Accommodation for applicants with disabilities is available upon request in connection with the recruitment process and/or employment/partnership. RSM is committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, interview, or otherwise participate in the recruiting process, please call us at 800-274-3978 or send us an email at careers@rsmus.com.

RSM does not intend to hire entry level candidates who will require sponsorship now OR in the future (i.e. F-1 visa holders). If you are a recent U.S. college / university graduate possessing 1-2 years of progressive and relevant work experience in a same or similar role to the one for which you are applying, excluding internships, you may be eligible for hire as an experienced associate.

RSM will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records. For those living in California or applying to a position in California, please click here for additional information.

At RSM, an employee’s pay at any point in their career is intended to reflect their experiences, performance, and skills for their current role. The salary range (or starting rate for interns and associates) for this role represents numerous factors considered in the hiring decisions including, but not limited to, education, skills, work experience, certifications, location, etc. As such, pay for the successful candidate(s) could fall anywhere within the stated range.

Compensation Range: $62,800 - $103,400

Individuals selected for this role will be eligible for a discretionary bonus based on firm and individual performance.