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Payroll Associate Jobs in Yakima, WA (NOW HIRING)

Retail Sales Associate - 2975

Yakima, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $18.22/hr

Our retail sales associates can earn UP TO 8% on transactions, which could average an additional $3 ... payroll cycle. • The ability to earn unlimited commission above your hourly base rate. • ...

HR Assistant

Yakima, WA

$26.50 - $29/hr

Associate degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred. * Minimum one year of experience in HR, payroll, scheduling, data entry, or administrative support.

... 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 ...

HR Assistant-Selah Plant

Selah, WA · On-site

$27.15 - $29/hr

Associate's degree in business or related field is preferred. * Minimum of one year of experience performing scheduling, payroll and data entry. Pay Information Salary Range: $55,100 to $77,100 ...

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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 Yakima, WA is $23.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $27.21 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 Yakima, WA?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Yakima, WA are:

What cities near Yakima, WA are hiring for Payroll Associate jobs?

Cities near Yakima, WA with the most Payroll Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Associate job openings in Yakima, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,846 per year, or $24 per hour.

Payroll Specialist

Toppenish, WA • On-site


Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Paid breaks

Recommended by parents

Respectful managers


$27.01 - $33.09/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Join our team as a Payroll Specialist at Toppenish Central Administration in Toppenish, WA!

Be part of a healthcare organization that believes in making a difference beyond medical care! We've transformed into a leading community health center in the Pacific Northwest with 40+ clinics across Washington and Oregon. We offer a wide range of services such as medical, dental, pharmacy, orthodontia, nutritional counseling, autism screening, and behavioral health. Our holistic model also extends assistance to shelter, energy, weatherization, HIV and AIDS counseling, home visits, and mobile medical/dental clinics.

We invite you to explore our short clips, "WE are Yakima - WE are Family" and "YVFWC - And then we grew," for a glimpse into our dedication to our communities, health, and families!

Visit our website at www.yvfwc.com to learn more about our organization!

Position Highlights:

  • $27.01-$33.09/hour DOE with the ability to go higher for highly experienced candidates.

  • 100% employer-paid health insurance, including medical, dental, vision, Rx, 24/7 telemedicine.

  • Profit sharing & 403(b) retirement plan available.

  • Generous PTO, 8 paid holidays, and much more!

What You'll Do:

  • Maintains the confidentiality and accuracy of payroll information.

  • Collects information, makes calculations, and enters timesheet data within required department timelines. Reviews timesheets and other data to detect and reconcile payroll discrepancies.

  • Validates and processes payroll for top management and Contracted Providers, including the payment of relocation, hiring, stipends, and other supplemental payments.

  • Works with HR Benefits & Leave Department to ensure Payroll staff are up to date with any changes to policies.

  • Maintains knowledge of state and federal leave laws and uses critical thinking as they apply to payroll payments and employee absence. Performs actions necessary to track and pay state leave time per regulations.

  • Participates in payroll system updates and ensures compliance with evolving regulations by performing system testing, validation, and necessary adjustments

  • Coordinates the payroll batch process for each pay period.

  • Audits payroll pre-check reports and alerts Payroll Clerks to problems or errors.

  • Enters and updates employee changes in status, address, exemptions, job title, department transfers, deductions, direct deposit and/or salary in the payroll system.

  • Collaborates with IT and HRIS teams to troubleshoot and resolve payroll system issues, ensuring seamless functionality and data integrity.

  • Prepares and distributes payroll reports for the organization's various locations in multiple states.

  • Generates accrual entries as required. Reconciles assigned payroll general ledger liability accounts.

  • Assists in compiling payroll audit samples for annual Corp and Profit-Sharing audits.

  • Submits direct deposit file to bank for distribution to employee accounts.

  • Assists in annual contribution report and submitting contribution for senior retirement plan.

  • Maintains knowledge of state and local payroll tax laws and regulations.

  • Assist in processing payroll tax deposits, tax withholdings and quarterly reporting to multiple states.

  • Creates and keeps up to date standard operational procedures for payroll department.

  • Responds to and resolves questions from internal staff and external entities such as creditors. Provides information about deductions, benefits, and procedures to internal staff and external entities as needed.

  • Stores and files payroll information according to policy.

  • Works closely with retirement broker on various provider benefits and retirement plans payments.

  • Processes 403b and 457b contributions to investment firms.

  • Assists the Payroll Supervisor in submitting legal filings and benefit payments.

  • Assists with HRIS Payroll/Timekeeping system administration, supporting system enhancements, conducting regression tests, and validating system updates before deployment.

  • Analyzes payroll system performance, identifies inefficiencies, and recommends improvements to optimize workflows and accuracy.

  • Supports Payroll Clerk I and Payroll Clerk II by providing technical assistance and clarification of payroll processes as needed.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Associate's Degree in Accounting or related subject required. High School Diploma/GED and an additional two years' experience in accounting or payroll may be substituted for the required degree. 

  • Three years' experience in payroll using relevant payroll software and databases.

  • Proficient with UKGPro or a comparable HRIS/Payroll system preferred. 

  • Skills to prioritize work and handle a variety of tasks simultaneously.

  • Skills to work independently with minimal supervision.

  • Handles confidential information with discretion.

  • Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy.

  • Strong organization skills.

  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.

  • Intermediate proficiency with Excel.

  • Basic proficiency with a variety of computer programs including Microsoft Outlook and Word.

Our Mission Statement

"Together we transform our communities through compassionate, individualized care, eliminating barriers to health and well-being."

Our mission celebrates inclusivity. We are committed to equal-opportunity employment.

Contact us at jobs@yvfwc.org to learn more about this opportunity!

Employment Type: Full time


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