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Payroll Specialist Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Payroll & Benefits Specialist - Smyrna, GA Salary $70,000 base Why This Opportunity Stands Out This Payroll & Benefits Specialist opportunity is with a stable organization seeking a payroll ...

Payroll Specialist*

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Overview The Payroll Specialist supports the end-to-end processing of weekly, in-house payroll for approximately 2,000+ employees. This role will serve as the primary backup to the Senior Payroll ...

Payroll Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Title: Payroll Specialist Location: Forest Park, GA Position Type: Permanent Pay: $55,000 - $75,000 / Year Benefits: This position is eligible for medical, dental, vision and 401(K). Position ...

Payroll Specialist

Alpharetta, GA · On-site +1

$23.29 - $38.81/hr

Payroll Specialist McKesson - Payroll Operations Position Summary The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll for a large, multi-state employee population.

Payroll Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

The Payroll Specialist will oversee multiple payroll cycles, ensure proper auditing and controls, guide payroll-related procedures for onboarding and offboarding, and serve as the primary liaison ...

Payroll Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$22.75 - $30.75/hr

The Payroll Specialist will oversee multiple payroll cycles, ensure proper auditing and controls, guide payroll-related procedures for onboarding and offboarding, and serve as the primary liaison ...

Payroll Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Our client in the construction industry is hiring for a Payroll Specialist. They are in office each day and have a very cool environment, great culture. They are located in West Atlanta. Essential ...

Payroll Specialist

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Job Summary The Payroll Specialist is responsible for preparing and processing payroll for various divisions of the company while ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with all federal, state ...

Payroll Specialist

Snellville, GA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Position Description This is a full-time role for a Payroll Specialist based in Snellville, GA. processing weekly payroll for both hourly and salaried employees. Key Responsibilities * * Payroll ...

Payroll Specialist

Norcross, GA · On-site

$34 - $37/hr

We are looking for a Payroll Specialist to support accurate and compliant payroll operations for an organization based in Norcross, Georgia. This Contract position is ideal for someone who can ...

Payroll Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Position Summary We are actively recruiting for a Payroll Specialist to join our growing team. Under the general direction and supervision of the Payroll & Integration Project Manager, the Payroll ...

Payroll Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for supporting the goals and activities of the Firm, Accounting & Finance, HR, and other Departments. General responsibilities include completing all areas of ...

Payroll Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Our client in the construction industry is hiring for a Payroll Specialist. They are in office each day and have a very cool environment, great culture! They are located in West Atlanta. Essential ...

Description POSITION SUMMARY The Payroll Specialist's responsibilities include collecting and reviewing employee information and working hours, calculating wages, preparing, and processing employee ...

Payroll Specialist

Alpharetta, GA

$22.75 - $31/hr

Overview Under direction of Payroll Manager, the Payroll Specialist assists with processing of weekly hourly payroll, taxes, garnishments and payroll deductions related to company benefits. This ...

Payroll Specialist

Alpharetta, GA

$22.75 - $31/hr

Overview Under direction of Payroll Manager, the Payroll Specialist assists with processing of weekly hourly payroll, taxes, garnishments and payroll deductions related to company benefits. This ...

Payroll Specialist

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Overview Under direction of Payroll Manager, the Payroll Specialist assists with processing of weekly hourly payroll, taxes, garnishments and payroll deductions related to company benefits. This ...

Payroll Specialist

Atlanta, GA

$22.75 - $30.75/hr

Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM or Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Why This Role Is Critical As the Payroll Specialist, you ensure payroll accuracy, legal compliance, and employee confidence ...

Temporary Associate Payroll Specialist

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Temporary Associate Payroll Specialist I Summary This position is responsible for receiving payroll information from assigned clients and/or Payroll Specialists and provides support by inputting new ...

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Payroll Specialist information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$14

$26

$38

How much do payroll specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll specialist in Decatur, GA is $26.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a payroll specialist worth it?

A payroll specialist manages employee compensation, tax deductions, and compliance with labor laws, often requiring proficiency with payroll software and attention to detail. The role offers steady employment with opportunities for advancement and typically requires certification or experience in accounting or HR. Job satisfaction depends on interest in administrative tasks and working in a structured environment.

What are some common challenges payroll specialists face and how can they effectively address them?

Payroll Specialists often encounter challenges such as ensuring accuracy with complex wage calculations, keeping up with changing tax laws, and meeting tight payroll deadlines. To address these issues, it’s important to stay current with regulatory changes through ongoing training and to use reliable payroll software that automates calculations and compliance checks. Strong attention to detail, effective time management, and open communication with HR and finance teams also help prevent errors and ensure smooth payroll processing.

What is the difference between Payroll Specialist vs Payroll Clerk?

AspectPayroll SpecialistPayroll Clerk
CredentialsTypically requires payroll or accounting certifications, some college educationHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often part of HR or finance teamsOffice environment, administrative support role
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries for payroll processing and complianceCommon in small to medium businesses for payroll data entry
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for payroll processing roles with more responsibilitiesCompared for entry-level payroll support roles

The Payroll Specialist typically handles complex payroll processing, compliance, and reporting, requiring specific certifications and experience. In contrast, the Payroll Clerk focuses on data entry and administrative tasks related to payroll. Both roles are essential in payroll operations but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What degree does a payroll specialist need?

A payroll specialist typically needs at least a high school diploma or equivalent; however, many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of payroll software and understanding of tax laws and regulations, which can be gained through certifications or on-the-job training.

What is a payroll specialist?

Payroll Specialists are professionals responsible for processing employee paychecks, managing payroll records, and ensuring compliance with tax laws and company policies. They handle tasks such as calculating wages, withholding taxes, and distributing payments. Payroll Specialists also resolve discrepancies, answer employee questions about pay, and prepare reports for management. Their role is crucial for maintaining accurate and timely compensation for employees.

What does a payroll specialist do?

A payroll specialist is a member of a company’s accounting team and is the person responsible for ensuring all employees are paid what they are owed. Payroll specialists must be organized and efficient. They keep track of employee wages, work hours, vacation time, and other data using accounting software. Depending on the size of the company, they may also be responsible for preparing tax records and presenting end-of-year financial information.

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

To thrive as a Payroll Specialist, you need a strong understanding of payroll processes, tax regulations, and accounting principles, typically supported by a degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with payroll software such as ADP, Paychex, or QuickBooks, and often certification like the Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC), is highly valued. Exceptional attention to detail, confidentiality, and strong interpersonal skills help ensure accurate payroll processing and effective communication with employees. These competencies are crucial for maintaining compliance, minimizing errors, and fostering trust within an organization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll Specialist jobs in Decatur, GA?

The most popular types of Payroll Specialist jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Payroll Specialist jobs in Decatur, GA?

For Payroll Specialist jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Payroll Specialist jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Payroll Specialist jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Payroll Specialist jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Payroll Specialist job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll Specialist job openings in Decatur, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,633 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

$70K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Payroll & Benefits Specialist – Smyrna, GA
Salary
$70,000 base
Why This Opportunity Stands Out

This Payroll & Benefits Specialist opportunity is with a stable organization seeking a payroll professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in accuracy.

  • Highly visible role partnering with employees and leadership across the organization
  • Opportunity to become the payroll expert while expanding your knowledge of benefits administration
  • Stable company seeking someone looking for a long-term home
  • Strong, collaborative team with hands-on leadership
  • Competitive benefits package including 3 weeks of PTO
Key Responsibilities

As the Payroll & Benefits Specialist, you will:

  • Process payroll for a large employee population with a high level of accuracy
  • Audit payroll records, identify discrepancies, and ensure compliance with payroll regulations
  • Maintain payroll records and process employee payroll changes
  • Utilize advanced Excel to analyze payroll data and create reports
  • Support benefits administration and employee inquiries (training provided)
  • Partner with internal departments to ensure timely and accurate payroll processing
Qualifications

Ideal candidates for this Payroll & Benefits Specialist role will have:

  • 5+ years of payroll experience, preferably processing payroll for 800+ employees
  • Advanced Excel skills, including Pivot Tables (Excel assessment required)
  • Experience auditing payroll and resolving payroll discrepancies
  • Strong tenure with previous employers and a commitment to long-term stability
  • Benefits experience is a plus but not required—payroll expertise is the priority
Why This Role?

This Payroll & Benefits Specialist position is ideal for someone who enjoys owning the payroll process and wants to join a stable organization where strong payroll expertise is highly valued. If you're looking for a long-term opportunity with a collaborative team and the chance to expand into benefits administration, this could be an excellent fit.

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