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Payroll Associate Jobs in La Crosse, WI (NOW HIRING)

Stetzer Accounting

Payroll Specialist

Trempealeau, WI · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Qualifications  Payroll experience is a plus, but not required--we are willing to train the right candidate.  Associate's or bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related ...

New

Ashley Global Retail, LLC

Payroll Specialist

Arcadia, WI · On-site

$23.50 - $31.75/hr

Associate Degree in Accounting or related field or equivalent work experience, required. * 6 months of hands-on payroll experience or general office experience, required. * Experience with ...

IT Accel, Inc

Senior Accountant / Tax Preparer

Sparta, WI

$75K - $97K/yr

Experience with payroll processing and payroll tax reporting. * Associate's or bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business, or a related field. * CPA or Enrolled Agent certification is helpful ...

Universities of Wisconsin

HR Director

La Crosse, WI · On-site

This job posting has been updates as of August 18, 2026 Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor ... Core functional areas of the Office of Human Resources include talent acquisition, payroll and ...

Wisconsin

HR Director

La Crosse, WI

This job posting has been updates as of August 18, 2026 Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor ... Core functional areas of the Office of Human Resources include talent acquisition, payroll and ...

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All JobsPayroll Associate JobsPayroll Associate Jobs in La Crosse, WI

Payroll Associate information

See La Crosse, WI salary details

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$23

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How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in La Crosse, WI is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $26.68 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 La Crosse, WI?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in La Crosse, WI are:

What cities near La Crosse, WI are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities near La Crosse, WI with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Payroll Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in La Crosse, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,820 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Payroll Specialist

Stetzer Accounting

Trempealeau, WI • On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Join Our Team as a Payroll Specialist!

Our accounting firm is looking for a motivated, detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join

our team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working with

numbers, providing exceptional client service, and developing their skills in payroll and

accounting. Previous payroll experience is a plus, but we are willing to train the right

candidate.


Position Type

 Flexible, Full-time, with overtime required as necessary

 Monday–Friday (additional hours may be available during peak periods)


Responsibilities

 Process payroll accurately and on schedule for multiple clients.

 Enter and verify employee payroll information using payroll software.

 Review payroll data for accuracy and resolve discrepancies.

 Calculate wages, deductions, taxes, and direct deposits.

 Assist with payroll tax filings and payroll-related reports.

 Maintain accurate and confidential payroll records.

 Communicate professionally with clients regarding payroll questions and

employee information.

 Assist with quarterly and year-end payroll reporting, including W-2 preparation.

 Stay up to date on payroll regulations and company procedures.

 Calculate, process, and file sales tax returns within multiple States.


Qualifications

 Payroll experience is a plus, but not required—we are willing to train the right

candidate.

 Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related

field is preferred but not required.

 Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

 Excellent organizational and time management skills.

 Strong communication and customer service skills.

 Experience with payroll software such as QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks

Online.

 Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

 Ability to handle confidential information with professionalism.

 Reliable transportation.

 Ability to maintain a consistent work schedule and arrive on time.


What We Offer

 Flexible schedule.

 A supportive, team-oriented work environment.

 Opportunity to gain valuable experience in payroll and accounting.

 A professional workplace that values integrity, accuracy, and exceptional client

service.

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