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Payroll Data Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Payroll Data Analyst's primary focus is data manipulation and analysis to prepare complex teen participant data for payroll processing. The Payroll Data manages payment for teen apprentices ...

The Payroll Data Analyst's primary focus is data manipulation and analysis to prepare complex teen participant data for payroll processing. The Payroll Data Analyst manages payment for teen ...

Analytics and Reporting: Develop,schedule, maintain, and provide essential payroll reporting and data matrix. Establish validating reports for internal and external use that incorporates payroll ...

Analytics and Reporting: Develop,schedule, maintain, and provide essential payroll reporting and data matrix. Establish validating reports for internal and external use that incorporates payroll ...

Analytics and Reporting: Develop, schedule, maintain, and provide essential payroll reporting and data matrix. Establish validating reports for internal and external use that incorporates payroll ...

Payroll Analyst

Parachute, CO · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Review and analyze payroll data to ensure accuracy prior to each payroll cycle. * Audit payroll reports and identify discrepancies between employee time records and payroll results. * Research ...

Payroll Analyst

Parachute, CO · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Review and analyze payroll data to ensure accuracy prior to each payroll cycle. * Audit payroll reports and identify discrepancies between employee time records and payroll results. * Research ...

You will be focused on transforming payroll data into meaningful analysis and recommendations. Will start out as a 6-month contract with potential future extensions. Will be hybrid with 2 days in ...

This individual is responsible for analyzing payroll data and trends, improving payroll processes, and ensuring accurate and timely payroll operations, including off-cycle adjustments. The role also ...

This individual is responsible for analyzing payroll data and trends, improving payroll processes, and ensuring accurate and timely payroll operations, including off-cycle adjustments. The role also ...

This role analyzes payroll data, resolves discrepancies, supports audits, and works closely with HR, Finance, and external vendors to ensure payroll operations run efficiently. The Payroll Analyst ...

This role analyzes payroll data, resolves discrepancies, supports audits, and works closely with HR, Finance, and external vendors to ensure payroll operations run efficiently. The Payroll Analyst ...

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Payroll Data Analyst information

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$53

How much do payroll data analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll data analyst in the United States is $34.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.68 and $37.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a payroll analyst do?

A payroll analyst is responsible for processing employee compensation, ensuring accurate and timely salary payments, and maintaining payroll records. They often use payroll software and must stay compliant with tax laws and company policies. The role may also involve analyzing payroll data to identify discrepancies and improve processes.

What is a payroll data analyst?

A payroll data analyst is a professional who manages and analyzes payroll data to ensure accurate employee compensation, tax compliance, and reporting. They often use tools like Excel or payroll software and require attention to detail and knowledge of payroll regulations.

How does a Payroll Data Analyst typically collaborate with HR and Finance teams to ensure payroll accuracy?

Payroll Data Analysts frequently work closely with both HR and Finance departments to ensure all payroll data is accurate, compliant, and up to date. They often act as a bridge, reconciling employee information from HR systems with financial data, and clarifying discrepancies or irregularities. Regular meetings, cross-functional projects, and shared reporting platforms are common, requiring strong communication and attention to detail. This collaboration helps ensure timely payroll processing and compliance with company policies and regulations.

What is the highest paying job in payroll?

The highest paying roles in payroll typically include Payroll Managers, Payroll Directors, and Compensation and Benefits Directors, who oversee payroll operations and strategy. These positions often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and certifications such as CPP (Certified Payroll Professional). Salaries for these roles can exceed $100,000 annually depending on the industry and location.

What does a Payroll Data Analyst do?

A Payroll Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting payroll data to ensure that employees are paid accurately and on time. They work with large datasets, utilize payroll software, and generate reports to support payroll processing and compliance. Their role often involves identifying trends, resolving discrepancies, and improving payroll processes to enhance efficiency and accuracy. Payroll Data Analysts typically collaborate with HR, finance, and IT departments to maintain data integrity and support organizational goals.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Data Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of payroll processes, typically supported by a degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. Proficiency with payroll software (such as ADP or SAP), advanced Excel skills, and familiarity with data analysis tools are commonly required, along with relevant certifications like the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP). Exceptional problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and discretion with sensitive data help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure accurate payroll processing, compliance with regulations, and effective communication across departments, which are critical for organizational trust and efficiency.

What field is the highest paid data analyst?

In the field of data analysis, those specializing in finance, healthcare, or technology tend to have the highest salaries. Data analysts with advanced skills in machine learning, statistical modeling, and proficiency in tools like SQL, Python, or R often command higher pay. Experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industries also contribute to increased earnings.

What is the difference between Payroll Data Analyst vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll Data AnalystPayroll Specialist
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in finance, accounting, or related field; proficiency in data analysis toolsHigh school diploma or equivalent; payroll certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentData-driven roles, often involving analysis and reporting within HR or finance departmentsPayroll processing, employee record management, and compliance tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries in finance, HR, and accounting departmentsCommon in HR and payroll departments of various organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding data analysis responsibilities in payrollFocus on payroll processing and compliance tasks

The Payroll Data Analyst primarily focuses on analyzing payroll data, generating reports, and supporting decision-making through data insights. In contrast, the Payroll Specialist handles payroll processing, employee records, and compliance. Both roles are essential in payroll operations but differ in their core functions and skill requirements.

More about Payroll Data Analyst jobs
What states have the most Payroll Data Analyst jobs? States with the most job openings for Payroll Data Analyst jobs include:
Infographic showing various Payroll Data Analyst job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,803 per year, or $34 per hour.
Payroll Data Analyst

Payroll Data Analyst

After School Matters

Chicago, IL • On-site

$54K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


After School Matters rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 202 rated education and training


Job description

Summary of Position:
The Payroll Data Analyst's primary focus is data manipulation and analysis to prepare complex teen participant data for payroll processing. The Payroll Data manages payment for teen apprentices, interns, and assistants, and assists with all functions related to the administration of stipends and wages.
Major Duties and Responsibilities:
Data manipulation and analysis to complete payroll processing:
  • Scope and cost management---ensures timely delivery of payroll
  • Collect and build data sets from our program database (Cityspan) while thinking strategically about the uses of data as it pertains to payroll
  • Process manual checks, replacement checks, and payroll corrections; investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies
  • Identify areas for process improvement using technology and propose alternatives

Payroll delivery and customer service:
  • Manage the logistics of check and pay card distribution; work with Programs to ensure delivery details are accurate
  • Collaborate with various departments for all aspects of the payroll process, from ensuring that teens are properly enrolled in programs to successfully paying teens; contact program liaisons when teens are missing requirements needed to be eligible for payment
  • Maintain and audit the outstanding and replacement check logs?
  • Support the Teen Stipend Hotline and respond to email inquiries

Reporting and recordkeeping:
  • Prepare and distribute accurate payroll reports and metrics, including the weekly Dashboard/Stipend report, to communicate percentages of teens and programs who were paid
  • Complete quarter-end and year-end processes for each payroll
  • Manage the distribution of W-2s and 1099s
  • Assist in gathering data requested by external auditors

Other duties as assigned
Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • Oversees 2-3 seasonal staff members

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Word and Excel including pivot tables and v-lookups
  • Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to compile, enter, audit and verify data
  • Highly detailed oriented
  • Knowledge of ADP's WorkforceNow preferred
  • Working knowledge of payroll-related requirements and regulations
  • Ability to clearly communicate detailed information to a variety of stakeholders
  • Ability to multi-task and adjust to rapidly changing priorities in order to address and resolve the most critical and sensitive issues on a timely basis
  • Strong orientation to customer service in a fast-paced, high-energy environment
  • Energetic team player who works well in collaborative situations
  • Ability to work independently and take ownership of projects

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Experience using Microsoft Excel is required
  • 1-2 years of work experience required; data manipulation and payroll experience preferred
  • Cook County residency required

Additional Requirements:
Staff are required to provide proof of COVID-19 Vaccination or have an approved medical or sincerely held religious beliefs exemption prior to starting employment. If a medical or sincerely held religious belief exemption is approved, weekly Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing is required part of any reasonable accommodation.
Compensation: $54,590
About Us:After School Matters is a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that annually offers after-school and summer programs to nearly 19,000 Chicago high school teens to explore and develop their talents while gaining critical skills that will set them up for success in college and beyond.
Thirty-five years later, now known as After School Matters, our program has engaged more than 450,000 Chicago teens and is the nation's largest and most successful provider of after-school and summer programs for high school teens. No other organization offers programs to high school students at the scale and quality that we do.
We offer paid apprenticeships led by professionals in the fields of arts, communications and leadership, sports, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Our nationally respected youth development model has been replicated in cities across the country and earned us the City Livability Award from the U.S. Conference of Mayors.
Programs take place at community locations throughout the city, including four ASM buildings: downtown at Gallery 37 Center for the Arts and Orleans, the Michael and Karyn Lutz Center in Belmont Cragin, and the Pullman community at Gately Park. Currently, After School Matters' annual operating budget is approximately $48M and employs approximately 500 staff across the organization. For more information, visit www.afterschoolmatters.org.
EEO: After School Matters is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, military discharge status, age, marital status, parental status, or source of income.

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