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Payroll Associate Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

Oracle HCM Payroll Lead

Seattle, WA · On-site

$132K - $302K/yr

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent (12 years) work experience (If an Associate's Degree with 6 years ... Bonus Points Oracle HCM Payroll Certification. Experience at managing a team and delivering ...

Oracle HCM Payroll Lead

Seattle, WA · On-site

$132K - $302K/yr

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent (12 years) work experience (If an Associate's Degree with 6 years ... Bonus Points Oracle HCM Payroll Certification. Experience at managing a team and delivering ...

Oracle HCM Payroll Lead

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$94K - $266K/yr

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent (12 years) work experience (If an, Associate's Degree with 6 years ... Oracle HCM Payroll Certification * Experience at managing a team and delivering projects. * Strong ...

Oracle HCM Payroll Lead

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$94K - $266K/yr

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent (12 years) work experience (If an, Associate's Degree with 6 years ... Oracle HCM Payroll Certification * Experience at managing a team and delivering projects. * Strong ...

This role administers certified payroll reporting, monitors prevailing wage requirements across ... Associate's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Human Resources, Construction Management ...

This role administers certified payroll reporting, monitors prevailing wage requirements across ... Associate's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Human Resources, Construction Management ...

This role administers certified payroll reporting, monitors prevailing wage requirements across ... Associate's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Human Resources, Construction Management ...

Store Sales Associate

Kent, WA · On-site

$17.13/hr

Responsibilities As a Store Sales Associate, your role encompasses a broad range of ... This role does not independently approve HR, payroll, leave, accommodation, discipline, or ...

Responsibilities As a Store Sales Associate, your role encompasses a broad range of ... This role does not independently approve HR, payroll, leave, accommodation, discipline, or ...

Responsibilities As a Store Sales Associate, your role encompasses a broad range of ... This role does not independently approve HR, payroll, leave, accommodation, discipline, or ...

Assistant Store Manager

Auburn, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $22/hr

Assists management with all sales associates, desk associates, and stock associates Essential ... Payroll Management: Meet all payroll expectations. * Loss Prevention: Control company assets by ...

Showing results 21-40

Payroll Associate information

See Kent, WA salary details

$16

$26

$44

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Kent, WA is $26.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $30.67 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 Kent, WA?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Kent, WA are:

What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities near Kent, WA with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Kent, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,139 per year, or $27 per hour.

Benefits, Leaves, & Payroll Specialist

Children's Home Society of Washington

Seattle, WA • On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

At Akin, we believe our people are at the heart of everything we do. We're looking for a detail-oriented and service-driven Payroll & Benefits Specialist to join our People & Culture team-someone who thrives on accuracy, enjoys solving problems, and is passionate about creating a seamless employee experience.
In this role, you'll be a trusted expert supporting payroll, benefits, and leave programs that directly impact our employees' well-being. If you enjoy working behind the scenes to make things run smoothly-and love partnering across teams to improve processes-this could be a great fit.
What You'll Do
Payroll Excellence
  • Process accurate, on-time bi-weekly payroll and maintain payroll records
  • Perform audits, reconciliations, and reporting to ensure data integrity
  • Manage garnishments, child support orders, and payroll inquiries
  • Partner with HR and Finance and serve as liaison with UKG Payroll Services

Benefits Administration
  • Oversee employee benefits programs including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and more
  • Manage enrollments, life events, and vendor relationships
  • Reconcile benefits data and invoices; support Open Enrollment
  • Help enhance benefits programs and employee communications

Leave & Compliance
  • Administer FMLA, state leave, ADA accommodations, and related programs
  • Track leave usage and ensure compliance with regulations
  • Support workers' compensation claims and return-to-work programs
  • Ensure compliance with ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, COBRA, and other regulations
What You Bring
  • Strong knowledge of payroll and benefits administration
  • Solid understanding of applicable laws and compliance requirements
  • Exceptional attention to detail and analytical skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
  • Strong communication and customer service mindset
  • Proficiency in HRIS systems and Microsoft Office, especially Excel
Minimum Qualifications
  • Associate degree in Business, HR, Accounting, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 3-5 years of experience in payroll, benefits, or HR administration
  • Demonstrated experience using HRIS systems and Excel
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field
  • HR or benefits certifications (PHR, SHRM-CP, CEBS, etc.)
  • Experience with UKG or similar systems
Why Akin?
  • Meaningful work that supports employees and communities
  • Collaborative and mission-driven culture
  • Flexible hybrid work environment (role-dependent)
  • Opportunities to improve systems and make a real impact
Work Environment
This role operates in a professional office setting with a hybrid option depending on business needs. It requires extended computer use, attention to detail, and the ability to manage interruptions in a fast-paced environment.
If you're someone who takes pride in accuracy, values confidentiality, and enjoys being a go-to resource for employees-we'd love to hear from you.
Compensation and Benefits:
We provide a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive pay, medical, dental and retirement benefits and paid time off. As required by various pay transparency laws, we share a competitive range of compensation for candidates hired into each position.
The target starting pay for this position is $75,000 - $90,000 per year, typically within the first half of the range. Actual offers will be based on individual qualifications relevant to the role and will not take an applicant's pay history into account.
The range above allows our employees room for growth during their tenure in the position.
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.