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Payroll Associate Jobs in Pawtucket, RI (NOW HIRING)

... Associate or bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, business administration, HR, or a related field preferred • Minimum of 8 years of payroll experience required • Prior payroll leadership ...

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. * Experience with multi-state payroll processing. * Experience in energy, utility, construction ...

Payroll Specialist

Providence, RI · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Associate's or bachelor's degree in business or accounting preferred * Proven experience in a payroll position in a fast-paced environment required * Strong knowledge of tax and wage laws

Payroll Specialist

Providence, RI · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Associate's or bachelor's degree in business or accounting preferred * Proven experience in a payroll position in a fast-paced environment required * Strong knowledge of tax and wage laws

Payroll Specialist

Providence, RI · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Associate's or bachelor's degree in business or accounting preferred * Proven experience in a payroll position in a fast-paced environment required * Strong knowledge of tax and wage laws

Payroll Specialist

Providence, RI

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Associate's or bachelor's degree in business or accounting preferred * Proven experience in a payroll position in a fast-paced environment required * Strong knowledge of tax and wage laws

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field preferred. * 3-5+ years of payroll, benefits, or Human Resources experience. QUALIFICATIONS:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field preferred. * 3-5+ years of payroll, benefits, or Human Resources experience. QUALIFICATIONS:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field preferred. * 3-5+ years of payroll, benefits, or Human Resources experience. QUALIFICATIONS:

Payroll/Benefits Specialist

Fall River, MA · On-site

$51K - $68K/yr

We want to attract and retain the best associates for our organization, recognizing our success ... Maintain and audit payroll records and reconciliations: general ledger entries, bank ...

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Payroll Associate information

See Pawtucket, RI salary details

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How much do payroll associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll associate in Pawtucket, RI is $23.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $26.44 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 Pawtucket, RI?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Pawtucket, RI are:

What cities near Pawtucket, RI are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities near Pawtucket, RI with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Pawtucket, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,391 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Payroll Supervisor (Payroll)

Taunton, MA • On-site

Martignetti Companies
Beverage Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description:

Welcome to Martignetti Companies, the leading distributor of wine and spirits in New England.


Our payroll team supports approximately 2,000 employees across multiple states during peak periods. We process both weekly and bi-weekly payrolls for a diverse workforce that includes exempt and nonexempt employees, union and non-union employees, seasonal and temporary staff, and commission and incentive-based compensation plans.


We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Payroll Supervisor to oversee the day-to-day payroll operations for the organization while leading and supporting the payroll team. This role will serve as a working supervisor — balancing hands-on payroll processing responsibilities with team leadership, process oversight, compliance, reporting, and problem-solving.


The Payroll Supervisor will play a critical role in ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing, maintaining compliance with payroll laws and company policies, supporting payroll system administration, and helping drive continuous improvement within payroll operations.


This position follows a hybrid work schedule, with three days per week in our Taunton office and two remote workdays. The salary range for this role is $85,000-$95,000.



Key Accountabilities


•Supervise the daily operations of the payroll team and provide guidance, training, and support to payroll staff

•Process and oversee weekly and bi-weekly payrolls to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance

•Review payroll data, including new hires, terminations, employee changes, deductions, earnings, commissions, and timekeeping records

•Monitor payroll processing workflows and assist with workload balancing and prioritization across the team

•Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws, payroll tax regulations, and union contract requirements

•Review payroll audits, reports, and reconciliations to identify discrepancies and ensure payroll accuracy

•Support payroll-related processes, including union and vendor payments and reporting

•Maintain and analyze commission and incentive compensation spreadsheets and reports

•Maintain payroll policies, time & labor rules, procedures, and internal controls

•Assist with payroll system administration and support ongoing payroll process improvements and efficiencies

•Partner with HR, Finance, and Benefits to ensure accurate employee and payroll data management

•Respond to escalated payroll inquiries and provide exceptional customer service to employees and managers

•Maintain payroll records, reports, and documentation in accordance with company retention policies

•Support year-end payroll activities, including W-2 processing, audits, and regulatory reporting

•Assist with payroll-related projects, implementations, testing, and process documentation


Requirements:

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities


•Strong understanding of payroll processing and compliance requirements

•Experience applying union contract rules and handling complex payroll scenarios

•Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including VLOOKUPs, pivot tables, nested formulas, SUMIF functions, and data analysis

•Experience working with payroll and timekeeping systems; Paylocity experience strongly preferred

•Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills

•Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail and accuracy

•Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment

•Strong leadership skills with the ability to coach, develop, and support a team

•Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive payroll and employee information

•Strong written and verbal communication skills

•Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively across departments

•Comfortable learning new systems and adapting to process changes



Education / Training / Experience


•High School Diploma or equivalent required

•Associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, business administration, HR, or a related field preferred

•Minimum of 8 years of payroll experience required

•Prior payroll leadership, lead, or supervisory experience preferred

•Experience in processing complex multi-state payrolls required

•Experience with commission and incentive-based compensation preferred

•Experience with Paylocity Payroll Software strongly preferred

•Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification is a plus



Working Environment


Martignetti Companies prides itself on being a company where you can bring your best self to work every day. We strive to be an employer of choice where everyone feels they belong. We act on our commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion by offering a substantial benefits package that includes generous paid time off, medical, dental, and vision insurance, a comprehensive 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.


Martignetti Companies is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetics, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


EEO M/F/D/V


NOTE: This job description covers the essential functions of the role but is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Employees may be asked to perform additional duties to support business needs.