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Payroll Associate Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Human Resources Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

$85 - $105/hr

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 ...

Human Resources Manager

Portage, WI · On-site

$65 - $85/hr

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 ...

New

... associate culture), and process (operating procedures and compliance standards). This position ... Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs and communicate ...

... associate culture), and process (operating procedures and compliance standards). This position ... Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs and communicate ...

... associate culture), and process (operating procedures and compliance standards). This position ... Leverage store forecast and payroll budgets to support with store scheduling needs and communicate ...

Accountant

Janesville, WI · On-site

$29.35 - $31.91/hr

Submit payroll for the Public Works Department that complies with County policies and procedures ... Job Requirements, Education, Training & Experience Associates degree in Accounting or related field ...

Achieve payroll plan by managing store schedules, monitoring labor costs and adapting to business ... Manage associate relations issues including performance management, and ensure associates follow ...

They must develop Associates at all levels, drive sales and profitability, and maintain effective expense and payroll budget management. They will also ensure compliance with effective inventory ...

They must develop Associates at all levels, drive sales and profitability, and maintain effective expense and payroll budget management. They will also ensure compliance with effective inventory ...

They must develop Associates at all levels, drive sales and profitability, and maintain effective expense and payroll budget management. They will also ensure compliance with effective inventory ...

They must develop Associates at all levels, drive sales and profitability, and maintain effective expense and payroll budget management. They will also ensure compliance with effective inventory ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Human Resources Manager

Festival Foods

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Festival Foods rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 283 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 124 rated grocery stores


Job description

Location : NameMadisonPosition TypeFull-TimeCompany OverviewABOUT FESTIVAL FOODS: We are a Wisconsin grocer that is committed to giving back to the communities it serves and providing guests with exceptional service and value. We operate +40 full-service supermarkets across the state of Wisconsin.

At Festival, people are at the top of our list. You'll see it in everything from our daily interactions to how we treat our guests - even in our extensive associate benefits and programs.

Job Summary

Job Title:      HR Manager

Reports To:  Store Director

 

This position is responsible for delivering all aspects of the HR function to their store location.   The position is a key leader within the store that focuses on all people related matters to ensure a productive, engaged, compliant, and best in class workforce.  This role requires strategic thinking, data-driven decision-making, the ability to challenge and influence others, and a focus on cultivating talent within the store. The HR Manager position builds strong relationships with the in-store leadership team as well as all associates in the store. You will also work in close partnership with the Support Office to develop strategies on all core HR functions including recruitment, employee relations, associate development, and total rewards.

Job Description

HR MANAGER ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Responsible for the full-cycle recruitment efforts of the store. This includes creation of job postings, sourcing, screening, interviewing, extending offers, and performing new hire orientation.
  • Responsible for regularly searching for top level talent to bring into the talent pipeline for future needs of the store.
  • Partners with and provides counsel to leaders on all employee relations matters including investigations, documentation, delivering corrective action, and conducting termination meetings as necessary. Regularly consults with the Support Office Employee Relations team on escalated employee relations cases and investigations.  Responsible for daily entries into our case management system to retain record of performance, behavioral, and attendance concerns.
  • Builds relationships with associates and fosters a sense of belonging through active inclusion of individual talents, perspectives, experiences, and capabilities.
  • Promotes awareness of associates rights and actively manages leave management options for eligible store associates by partnering with third party vendors on FMLA, STD, ADA, and Worker's Compensation administration.
  • Works side by side with the leadership team to build relationships, drive engagement, retention, and develop a best in class work environment.
  • 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 are accurate on a weekly basis before the close of payroll. Additionally, this position is responsible for maintaining compliant payroll records on-site.
  • Leverage people data such as turnover, employee relations case management system reports, and exit interviews, to guide decision-making and offer solutions to improve results.
  • Serves as a direct resource to associates on benefits including medical, dental, ancillary benefits, 401(k) and paid time off.
  • Facilitates company recognition programs and ensures leaders are executing program standards.
  • Ensures compliance with labor laws and regulations.
  • Regular, timely attendance in compliance with work schedule.
  • All other duties as assigned.

 RELATIONSHIPS AND CONTACTS

Supervisory Relationships:

  • Directly reports to the Store Director
  • Indirect reporting relationship with Sr. Director of Human Resources and Assistant Director of Human Resources

Organization Relationships:

  • Daily contact with all levels of store leadership to provide coaching, discuss recruitment needs, provide HR policy interpretation and guidance.
  • Regular contact with the area HR Market Lead to seek support and guidance on all in store activities including employee relations and procedural questions.
  • Frequent contact with the HR team at the Support Office to gain information, work on joint projects, and seek advice and counsel based on their areas of expertise.
  • Frequent contact with in-store associates regarding their employment and career.

External Business Relationships:

  • Contact with Human Resource peers through SHRM and other organizations
  • Contact with HR interest groups, other companies, consulting firms, and a variety of industrial associates to exchange information and keep abreast of new HR developments, best practices, and market trends

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. A Bachelor's degree is preferred. Human Resources or Operations Management experience of at least 2 years is required. SHRM-CP/PHR is preferred. Strong knowledge required in the following:

  • Recruiting
  • Employee relations
  • Compensation and Total Rewards programs
  • Working knowledge of employment law and regulations
  • Displays strong attention to detail and enjoys writing detailed and well-structured notes, written decisions and other communications
  • Leads or supports culture-building and engagement initiatives to enhance associate experience and reinforce company values.
  • Accurate spelling and grammar skills
  • Strong typing and computer skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work on highly confidential matters and to maintain absolute discretion and confidentiality as to those matters
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including presentation skills
  • Strong level of influence skills
  • Ability to interact with all levels within the organization
  • Ability to work independently and apply sound judgement on HR and business issues
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Demonstrated ability to develop relationships with, coach, and advise others

 PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands and work environment described below are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

  • Sitting or standing at a computer 50% of the time
  • Bending, stretching, and occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs. is required
  • Walking the store is an essential part of this role and is expected each day
  • Professional presence and proper phone etiquette is required

WORK SCHEDULE

The HR Manager is a full-time position. The standard schedule for this position is 8:00am to 4:30pm including, weekend and holiday availability is required based on store needs.

Benefits OverviewWHY YOU'LL LOVE IT HERE:
  • Associate Discount: Enjoy an industry-leading 15% off your grocery purchases for you and your immediate household!.
  • Weekly Pay & Premium Pay: Hourly associates are paid weekly, providing more frequent access to their funds. Part-time store associates are paid a $1 premium per hour on Sundays and select holidays. Hourly full-time store associates receive time and a half on Sundays and select holidays.
  • Two-Week Advanced Scheduling: Better Planning. Better Balance. We provide our associates with their schedules two weeks in advance, offering greater predictability & flexibility.
  • Vision & Dental Insurance: Part-time and full-time associates are eligible for vision insurance and two dental coverage options that are designed to fit your needs.
  • Support: Our associates receive support for their total well-being; including 3 weeks of paid parental leave, a fitness reimbursement program offering savings off of fitness membership fees; our EAP (Employee Assistance Program) and LEAPCare Care Coaches, which provide associates confidential care related to hospital visitation, conflict resolution, stress management, marriage or divorce, family issues and depression or anxiety.
  • Save for Your Future: Offering a 401(k), we're proud to support our associates in planning for retirement. The 401(k) plan empowers associates to save a portion of their paychecks for retirement. Festival Foods has an annual discretionary match to help our associates reach their savings goals. At Festival Foods we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all. We are dedicated to building a top-notch team of skilled, experienced and service-oriented associates. Festival Foods believes that an inclusive environment for teammates of all backgrounds and perspectives strengthens our ability to serve our guests and communities, as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people.Address810 East Washington AvenueCityMadisonStateWIPostal Code53703
  • Employment Type: OTHER

    What Festival Foods employees say

    Pay

    Benefits

    Hours and flexibility

    Workplace

    Get the full story on Breakroom


    Festival Foods logo

    About Festival Foods

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    Festival Foods serves guests in 40 full-service, state-of-the-art supermarkets throughout Wisconsin. At Festival Foods, we're not simply selling groceries, we're on a mission! Every business decision we make is based on our "Boomerang Principle"--empowering our associates to make decisions and take actions that will "Bring the Customer Back". We are proud to be a family and employee-owned company.

    Industry

    Retail

    Company size

    5,001 - 10,000 Employees

    Headquarters location

    De Pere, WI, US

    Year founded

    1946