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Payroll Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Fisher Commercial Management

Payroll Associate

Portland, OR · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

We are seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Associate to manage daily payroll operations and ensure accurate, timely employee compensation. This position handles full-cycle payroll processing, maintains ...

wfg

Payroll Specialist

Gladstone, OR · Hybrid

$25.25 - $34.25/hr

A minimum of an Associate's degree or Bachelor's degree, or comparable experience * Must have experience with multi-state payroll, garnishments, and automated timesheets * Experience with payroll tax ...

Pride Electric, Inc.

Payroll Specialist

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

A working knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping processes, at a level normally acquired through an associate degree in business administration or accounting; and * 2 years' experience in payroll.

Biotronik

Payroll Administrator

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$25.25 - $34/hr

Associate's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, Human Resources or related field * Minimum two years of Payroll experience or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.

Everus Communications

Payroll Specialist

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

A working knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping processes, at a level normally acquired through an associate degree in business administration or accounting; and * 2 years' experience in payroll.

Williston Financial Group

Payroll Specialist

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

A minimum of an Associate's degree or Bachelor's degree, or comparable experience * Must have experience with multi-state payroll, garnishments, and automated timesheets * Experience with payroll tax ...

Clark College

Payroll Manager

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$84K - $97K/yr

Associate degree including 15 quarter or 12 semester hours in accounting AND two (2) years of relevant professional experience OR four (4) years of professional payroll or accounting experience.

Generations LLC

HR/Payroll Assistant

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

Associate's degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent work experience). * 1-3 years' payroll/HR experience; experience in multi-state senior living or healthcare ...

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All JobsPayroll Associate JobsPayroll Associate Jobs in Portland, OR

Payroll Associate information

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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 Portland, OR is $25.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $28.80 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Payroll Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,738 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Payroll Associate

Portland, OR • On-site

Fisher Commercial Management
See more jobs at Fisher Commercial Managementexternal

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Associate to manage daily payroll operations and ensure accurate, timely employee compensation. This position handles full-cycle payroll processing, maintains detailed employee payroll records, reconciles accounts, and works closely with HR and finance teams to maintain strict compliance with regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

  • Process bi-weekly and monthly employee payroll accurately and on schedule using automated payroll software
  • Collect, review, and verify timecard data, attendance records, and wage calculations
  • Maintain, update, and audit confidential employee payroll records, tax forms, and direct deposit information
  • Ensure strict compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws, tax withholdings, and FLSA regulations
  • Calculate and process benefits deductions, garnishments, PTO payouts, and tax withholdings
  • Reconcile payroll balance sheets, general ledger entries, and resolve payroll discrepancies promptly
  • Respond to employee payroll inquiries and assist with payroll audits and year-end W-2 reporting

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Management or approved related areas
  • Proven experience as a Payroll Associate, Payroll Specialist, or Payroll Administrator
  • Strong working knowledge of payroll processing systems, time and attendance software, and spreadsheet applications
  • Solid understanding of basic accounting principles, payroll taxes, wage laws, and compliance procedures
  • Ability to manage wage garnishments, benefits deductions, and tax withholdings accurately
  • Strong analytical, data entry, and mathematical skills with high attention to detail
  • Excellent communication skills to collaborate with HR and finance teams and resolve employee issues
  • Demonstrated ability to maintain strict confidentiality when handling sensitive financial and employee records