1

Payroll Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manage the end-to-end administration of 1099 and global contractors, including establishing ... Support payroll tax filings, year-end reporting (W-2s, 1099s), wage garnishments, unemployment ...

Payroll Administrator

Dayton, OH · Remote

$25.34 - $32/hr

This position focuses on delivering accurate payroll operations for a multi-state workforce while supporting compliance needs tied to government contracting. The ideal candidate brings strong Workday ...

Be Seen First

Lawson Mechanical Contractors is a leading Sacramento-based mechanical contractor with over 78 ... As Union Payroll Specialist, you will support and assist the Payroll Manager in accurate and timely ...

Payroll Clerk

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Payroll Clerk Salary: $60,000 - $70,000 Location: Indianapolis, IN 46218 Work Environment: Fully ... contracting organization that places a strong emphasis on teamwork, accountability, and company ...

Manage the end-to-end administration of 1099 and global contractors, including establishing ... Support payroll tax filings, year-end reporting (W-2s, 1099s), wage garnishments, unemployment ...

Be Seen First

Payroll & AP Specialist

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Payroll Accountant Experience working for a construction contractor, mechanical contractor, electrical contractor, general contractor, or other project-based organization is highly desirable. APPLY ...

Payroll Clerk Salary: $60,000 - $70,000 Location: Indianapolis, IN 46218 Work Environment: Fully ... contracting organization that places a strong emphasis on teamwork, accountability, and company ...

Payroll Clerk

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Payroll Clerk Salary: $60,000 - $70,000 Location: Indianapolis, IN 46218 Work Environment: Fully ... contracting organization that places a strong emphasis on teamwork, accountability, and company ...

Payroll Coordinator

Tempe, AZ

$22 - $29.25/hr

Weekly communication with Contractors Plan Trust regarding same. Assists HR Generalist with any ... Assists the Payroll Director with monthly report preparation and any intra-company requests for ...

Payroll Clerk

Dallas, TX · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Overview McKee Utility Contractors is now hiring a Payroll Clerk for their main office - location in Dallas, TX. The payroll clerk will be responsible for all tasks involved in processing payroll.

Skillforce is a full-service labor contractor that provides guaranteed, reliable craftsmen to ... The Payroll Assistant plays a critical role in ensuring the accurate and timely processing of ...

Payroll Manager

Germantown, MD · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Payroll Manager The Payroll Manager leads all aspects of payroll administration for a growing government contracting organization. This role oversees the accurate and timely processing of bi-weekly ...

Payroll Clerk

Dallas, TX

$18 - $23.50/hr

Overview McKee Utility Contractors is now hiring a Payroll Clerk for their main office - location in Dallas, TX. The payroll clerk will be responsible for all tasks involved in processing payroll.

Payroll Clerk

Dallas, TX · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Overview McKee Utility Contractors is now hiring a Payroll Clerk for their main office - location in Dallas, TX. The payroll clerk will be responsible for all tasks involved in processing payroll.

Payroll Clerk

Dallas, TX · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Overview McKee Utility Contractors is now hiring a Payroll Clerk for their main office - location in Dallas, TX. The payroll clerk will be responsible for all tasks involved in processing payroll.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Payroll Contractor information

See salary details

$42K

$89.4K

$133K

How much do payroll contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for payroll contractor in the United States is $89,396.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Payroll Contractor, and how can they be managed effectively?

Payroll Contractors often encounter challenges such as staying updated with frequently changing tax laws, managing multiple clients with varying payroll systems, and ensuring strict deadlines are met for payroll processing. Effective organization, strong attention to detail, and ongoing professional development are key to managing these challenges. Building good communication with client HR and finance teams also helps streamline data collection and minimize errors, ensuring accurate and timely payroll delivery.

What is the highest paying contractor job?

In the field of payroll contracting, senior payroll managers or payroll directors tend to have the highest earning potential, often earning six-figure salaries due to their expertise in compliance, tax regulations, and payroll systems. These roles typically require extensive experience, certifications such as CPP or FPC, and the ability to manage large teams or complex payroll processes.

Can I put a contractor on payroll?

Payroll contractors are typically classified as independent contractors and are not placed on a company's payroll unless they are reclassified as employees, which involves changing their employment status and benefits. Employers must follow legal guidelines and tax regulations when transitioning a contractor to employee status, often requiring proper documentation and compliance with labor laws. Misclassification can lead to legal and financial penalties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Payroll Contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Payroll Contractor, you need expertise in payroll processing, tax regulations, and compliance, typically supported by a degree in accounting, finance, or related field. Familiarity with payroll software such as ADP, Paychex, or QuickBooks and certifications like the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) are highly valued. Strong attention to detail, confidentiality, and effective communication skills help ensure accurate payroll processing and client satisfaction. These skills are crucial for maintaining legal compliance, minimizing errors, and fostering trust with clients or employers.

How much does a payroll consultant earn?

Payroll contractors typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of payroll systems. Salaries can vary widely, with annual earnings ranging from approximately $40,000 to $100,000 for full-time roles, often requiring knowledge of payroll software and compliance regulations.

What is the highest paying job in payroll?

The highest paying roles in payroll typically include Payroll Director or Payroll Manager at large organizations, with salaries reaching six figures. These positions often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of payroll systems and compliance regulations.

What is the difference between Payroll Contractor vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll ContractorPayroll Specialist
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required; experience preferredOften requires certifications like CPP or FPC
Work EnvironmentContract basis, often freelance or temporaryFull-time or part-time in an organization
Employer UsageHired by companies for specific payroll projects or seasonal needsEmployed directly by companies to manage payroll processes
Common Search IntentComparing freelance vs in-house payroll rolesUnderstanding payroll job responsibilities and qualifications

The main difference between a Payroll Contractor and a Payroll Specialist lies in employment status and certification. Payroll Contractors are usually temporary or freelance workers without formal payroll certifications, hired for specific projects. Payroll Specialists are typically full-time employees with relevant certifications, managing ongoing payroll functions within a company.

What are Payroll Contractors?

Payroll Contractors are professionals or agencies hired by organizations to manage and process employee payroll on a contract basis. They handle tasks such as calculating wages, withholding taxes, ensuring timely payments, and maintaining payroll records. By outsourcing payroll functions, companies can save time, reduce errors, and stay compliant with legal and tax regulations. Payroll Contractors may also assist with year-end tax forms and reporting. Their services are especially valuable for businesses without a dedicated in-house payroll team.
More about Payroll Contractor jobs
What cities are hiring for Payroll Contractor jobs? Cities with the most Payroll Contractor job openings:
What states have the most Payroll Contractor jobs? States with the most job openings for Payroll Contractor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Payroll Contractor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Payroll Contractor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Payroll Contractor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,396 per year, or $43 per hour.
Payroll Manager

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a Payroll Manager to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing for a growing, multistate and international workforce. This role supports payroll for employees across multiple states and international locations with varying pay schedules, benefits, overtime calculations, and shift differentials. The position requires strong attention to detail and compliance expertise.

Key Responsibilities

  • Process biweekly and monthly payroll, ensuring accuracy across multiple pay schedules and complex earnings scenarios, including overtime, shift differentials, bonuses, and retroactive pay.
  • Maintain payroll records and process employee lifecycle changes, including new hires, terminations, compensation updates, and contractor payments.
  • Review payroll audits and reports, identify discrepancies, and resolve issues in a timely manner.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws, payroll tax regulations, company policies, and contractor payment requirements.
  • Manage the end-to-end administration of 1099 and global contractors, including establishing contractor intake and approval processes, maintaining and monitoring contract terms and expiration dates, coordinating renewals and extensions, and ensuring accurate and timely monthly payments through the HRIS/payroll system.
  • Support payroll tax filings, year-end reporting (W-2s, 1099s), wage garnishments, unemployment taxes, and other regulatory requirements.
  • Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, and taxes while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
  • Perform payroll reconciliations, support general ledger postings, and prepare payroll-related reports for Accounting and Finance.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure accurate data flow between payroll, HR, Finance, and related systems.
  • Drive process improvements and automation initiatives to enhance payroll efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.

Qualifications 

Education

  • Associate or bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or related field preferred.
  • Payroll certification (e.g., FPC, CPP) is a plus.

Experience

A minimum of 5 years payroll experience, including multistate U.S. payroll.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in highgrowth or technology environments.
  • Experience managing and processing payroll runs for equity related income
  • Familiarity with payroll accounting (GL postings, reconciliations) and audit support.
  • Knowledge of benefits, garnishments, and statutory reporting.
  • International payroll exposure a plus

Soft Skills

  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively within crossfunctional teams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy of all documentation and deliverables.
  • Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage multiple priorities.

Technology Stack

  • Payroll processing systems and time tracking required (ADP a plus)
  • Advanced Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP); experience with Power BI/Tableau a plus.
  • Familiarity with accounting system integrations. 

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
  • Availability to meet payroll deadlines, including occasional afterhours work during close or yearend cycles.

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.Â