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Payroll Processing Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Senior Accountant

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

... process improvements, and guiding bookkeeping associates as needed. Key Responsibilities * Perform data entry for payroll, general and standard journal entries, bank and credit card transaction ...

Senior Accountant

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

... process improvements, and guiding bookkeeping associates as needed. Key Responsibilities * Perform data entry for payroll, general and standard journal entries, bank and credit card transaction ...

Payroll processing experience * Experience with project management software * Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business What Makes This Opportunity Different * Growing and ...

Bookkeeper

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Oversee general ledger, account payables/receivables and reconciliation * Assist Payroll Processing ... High school diploma or Associate's degree in accounting or business administration desired, but ...

Accounting Clerk

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.40 - $22.10/hr

... payroll processing * Scan daily check deposit & occasional trips to bank with cash deposits ... Full-time associates are offered a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision ...

Accounting Clerk

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.40 - $22.10/hr

... payroll processing * Scan daily check deposit & occasional trips to bank with cash deposits ... Full-time associates are offered a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision ...

Process member payments and make bank deposits * Assist with payroll processing and employee ... Associate's degree or higher in accounting or related field preferred Benefits: * $18-$23/hour, pay ...

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Payroll Processing Associate information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$22

$43

How much do payroll processing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll processing associate in Tennessee is $22.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Payroll Processing Associate do?

A Payroll Processing Associate is responsible for handling the accurate and timely processing of employee payroll. This includes collecting timesheets, calculating wages, ensuring compliance with tax laws, and distributing paychecks or direct deposits. They also address payroll discrepancies, answer employee questions about their pay, and maintain confidential payroll records. Their role is essential to ensure employees are paid correctly and on schedule.

How much do payroll associates make in the US?

Payroll processing associates in the US typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced professionals with certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often requires proficiency with payroll software and attention to detail.

Is payroll more HR or accounting?

Payroll processing associates primarily work within the payroll or finance department, focusing on calculating employee wages, deductions, and ensuring timely payments. While payroll involves understanding tax regulations and compliance, it is generally considered part of the accounting function rather than HR, which handles employee relations and benefits. Some roles may require knowledge of both areas, but payroll is typically aligned with accounting tasks.

What are some common challenges Payroll Processing Associates face, and how can they effectively manage them?

Payroll Processing Associates often encounter challenges such as handling last-minute changes to employee timesheets, staying compliant with evolving tax regulations, and ensuring timely and accurate payroll delivery. Effective management involves maintaining strong organizational skills, regularly updating knowledge on payroll laws, and leveraging payroll software to automate and double-check calculations. Collaborating closely with HR and accounting departments also helps quickly resolve discrepancies and maintain smooth payroll operations.

What is the highest paying job in payroll?

The highest paying roles in payroll typically include Payroll Manager, Payroll Director, or Payroll Vice President, which involve overseeing payroll operations and strategy. These positions often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of payroll systems and compliance, and they can offer salaries significantly higher than entry-level payroll processing roles.

What is the difference between Payroll Processing Associate vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll Processing AssociatePayroll Specialist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationTypically requires certification or relevant payroll certifications
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often in HR or finance departmentsOffice environment, often in HR, finance, or payroll departments
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in various industries for entry-level payroll tasksUsed across industries, often with more complex payroll responsibilities
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched for entry-level payroll roles or support positionsCompared for more advanced payroll duties and responsibilities

The Payroll Processing Associate typically handles basic payroll tasks such as data entry and processing, often as an entry-level role. In contrast, the Payroll Specialist usually has more advanced responsibilities, including compliance and troubleshooting. Both roles are essential in payroll operations, but the Payroll Specialist generally requires more experience or certifications.

What does a payroll associate do?

A payroll processing associate is responsible for calculating employee wages, ensuring accurate and timely payroll disbursements, and maintaining payroll records. They often use payroll software and must adhere to company policies and legal regulations related to compensation and taxes.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Processing Associate, you need a solid understanding of payroll regulations, attention to detail, and experience with payroll procedures, often supported by a degree in accounting or business. Proficiency with payroll software (such as ADP or Paychex), Microsoft Excel, and knowledge of tax compliance are typically required. Strong organizational skills, discretion, and effective communication help in managing sensitive information and collaborating with colleagues. These skills ensure accurate, timely payroll processing while maintaining compliance and safeguarding confidential employee data.
What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll Processing jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Payroll Processing jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Payroll Processing Associate jobs in Tennessee? For Payroll Processing Associate jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Payroll Processing Associate jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Payroll Processing Associate jobs in Tennessee are:
Data Management Associate

Data Management Associate

University of Memphis

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


University Of Memphis rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 546 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The department of Human Resources invites applicants to apply for the Data Management Associate role. This position is responsible for maintaining accurate employee data within the HRIS, supporting payroll processes, and ensuring compliance with employment regulations. This role provides customer support for HRIS-related inquiries, audits and manages employment documentation, and collaborates with internal departments to resolve data and compensation issues while ensuring the integrity of personnel records.

Initial Screening begins Friday June 12, 2026 and will occur every Friday thereafter, until filled.

Bachelor's degree and one year of experience in HR, customer service, or data entry/analysis; or Associate degree (or a minimum of two years of college) and three years of relevant experience in HR, customer service, or data entry/analysis.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

  • Maintains the accuracy and integrity of employee records by processing HR transactions and updates within the HR information system. Researches and resolves data discrepancies, responds to inquiries, and provides guidance to departments regarding employee data and HR processes. Analyzes transactions, including terminations, leave activity, time entry and service credit, and makes appropriate system corrections. 
  • Prepares, reviews, and maintains payroll-related reports and documentation. Collaborates with Payroll to research and resolve compensation discrepancies, including deductions, deferrals, and related payouts. Submits reports and supporting documentation to the Payroll Department and supports the biweekly and monthly payroll processes including out-of-cycle and retroactive payments. 
  • Responds to HRIS-related inquiries and assigned help desk tickets. Provides guidance on system navigation, role assignments, and standard workflows. Troubleshoots basic system issues and escalates complex matters to the supervisor as appropriate.
  • Reviews Form I-9 and EVerify documentation for accuracy and compliance with federal and state regulations. Performs routine audits of employment eligibility records, processes corrections, and coordinates re-verification efforts, including maintaining documentation, tracking expirations, and communicating with employees. 
  • Prepares, scans, and maintains electronic personnel records, including documents related to benefits, employee actions, employee relations, leaves, etc. Assists with subpoenas and public records requests in coordination with the Office of Legal Counsel, as needed. Responds to unemployment related claims. Maintains and updates desk procedures and documentation. Ensures compliance with applicable policies and regulations by participating in training, seminars, and ongoing professional development.  
  • Performs other duties as assigned. 


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