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Payroll Associate Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Specialist, Payroll - Vantagen

Janesville, WI · On-site

$23 - $31.50/hr

This role is expected to understand payroll in depth and to maintain knowledge of payroll practices ... Associate degree preferred * Experience with ADP software platforms desirable * Working knowledge ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

Sales Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

$55 - $90/hr

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

Accounting Assistant

Fort Atkinson, WI · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Associate's degree in Accounting or enrollment in an accounting program preferred * One to two years of payroll, accounting, bookkeeping, or related office experience preferred * Strong mathematical ...

Responsible for rolling out programs and providing training to support our associates and leadership team. * Leads weekly payroll processing, including daily timecard edits, and ensuring time cards ...

Responsible for rolling out programs and providing training to support our associates and leadership team. * Leads weekly payroll processing, including daily timecard edits, and ensuring time cards ...

Responsible for rolling out programs and providing training to support our associates and leadership team. * Leads weekly payroll processing, including daily timecard edits, and ensuring time cards ...

Showing results 21-40

Payroll Associate information

See Madison, WI salary details

$14

$24

$39

How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Madison, WI is $24.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $27.36 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 Madison, WI?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,144 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Specialist, Payroll - Vantagen

Bakertilly

Janesville, WI • On-site

$23 - $31.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Baker Tilly rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 23 rated bookkeepers and accountants


Job description

Overview

Baker Tilly is a leading advisory, tax and assurance firm, providing clients with a genuine coast-to-coast and global advantage in major regions of the U.S. and in many of the world's leading financial centers - New York, London, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago and Boston. Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and Baker Tilly US, LLP (Baker Tilly) provide professional services through an alternative practice structure in accordance with the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and applicable laws, regulations and professional standards. Baker Tilly US, LLP is a licensed independent CPA firm that provides attest services to its clients. Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and its subsidiary entities provide tax and business advisory services to their clients. Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and its subsidiary entities are not licensed CPA firms.

Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and Baker Tilly US, LLP, trading as Baker Tilly, are independent members of Baker Tilly International, a worldwide network of independent accounting and business advisory firms in 141 territories, with 43,000 professionals and a combined worldwide revenue of $5.2 billion. Visitbakertilly.comor join the conversation onLinkedIn,FacebookandInstagram.

Please discuss the work location status with your Baker Tilly talent acquisition professional to understand the requirements for an opportunity you are exploring.

Baker Tilly is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable federal, state or local law.

Any unsolicited resumes submitted through our website or to Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP, employee e-mail accounts are considered property of Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP, and are not subject to payment of agency fees. In order to be an authorized recruitment agency ("search firm") for Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP, there must be a formal written agreement in place and the agency must be invited, by Baker Tilly's Talent Attraction team, to submit candidates for review via our applicant tracking system.

Job Description:

Responsibilities:
The main responsibilities of this role is to provide direct support and consulting to our payroll clients. This role is expected to understand payroll in depth and to maintain knowledge of payroll practices and laws so as to provide better service and information to our clients. Under the supervision of the Payroll Supervisor, this role is expected to be independently managing their client relationships, however, when needed, escalating issues or challenges for prompt resolution.
Client Service & Deliverables

  • Ensure client payroll information is accurate within their specific payroll system and resolve any discrepancies
  • Review and/or process payrolls in a timely manner to meet client deadlines to include updating employee records, calculating/paying bonuses or severance, reviewing accuracy of federal and state income related tax calculations, and reconciling payroll deposits, tax withholdings, wage garnishments, etc.
  • Prepare reports of employee earnings, taxes, deductions, and employer's contribution for social security and unemployment


Client Service

  • Establish strong and trusted client relationships by effectively consulting with clients on all payroll related matters
  • Maintain confidence of employee data by keeping all information confidential
  • Accurately convey detailed information in both written and verbal format
  • Provide technical software support to clients
  • Identify and accurately capture out of scope work
  • Identify new opportunities to expand services to clients


Implementation & Technology

  • Be an additional resource to the implementation team when needed
  • Interviews clients to gain understanding of payroll needs
  • Manage new client implementation projects, ensuring timely completion and client satisfaction
  • Train clients on payroll processes as necessary

Individual and Team Development

  • Be a resource to new hires and/or less experienced staff as it relates to clients, software, payroll, and/or processes
  • Provide honest feedback to new hires/less experienced staff in a timely manner
  • Help build team capabilities and knowledge by sharing insights and lessons learned
  • Research and maintain product knowledge on ADP software platforms
  • Maintain current knowledge of local, state, and federal practices and laws

Qualifications:
  • 2-year degree preferred or 2 years experience in lieu of degree
  • Associate degree preferred
  • Experience with ADP software platforms desirable
  • Working knowledge of Outlook and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Highly detail oriented and focused on accuracy
  • Strong organization and time management skills
  • Strong adaptability and multi-tasking skills
  • Ability to effectively work in a deadline driven environment serving multiple clients
  • Ability to provide exceptional client service
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; appropriately and professionally communicates with all levels
  • Ability to learn new technology and processes quickly
  • Ability to learn from experiences and integrate new knowledge and skills into daily work and share with colleagues as appropriate
    The compensation range for this role is $21.50 to $41.00. Actual compensation is influenced by a variety of factors including but not limited to skills, experience, qualifications, and geographic location.

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