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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

$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

$65K - $103K/yr

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for supporting payroll operations across the organization, ensuring accurate and compliant processing of employee compensation. This role partners closely with ...

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

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

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

JOB SUMMARY 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

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

JOB SUMMARY 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 ...

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

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

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

The Payroll Specialist must ensure that employees are paid accurately by processing and reviewing all payroll documentation. Specific Duties: Collects all payroll documentation, verifies, inputs ...

Payroll Specialist

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Payroll Specialist As a Payroll Specialist, you will be responsible for day-to-day payroll processing for approximately 2,000 employees across multiple locations. You will play a key role in ...

Payroll Specialist

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

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 ...

New

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

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

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 ...

Senior Payroll Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Senior Payroll Specialist - New Opportunity! A fast-growing, event-driven organization is seeking a Senior Payroll Specialist to manage end-to-end, multi-state payroll in a high-volume environment.

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Payroll Specialist information

See Decatur, GA salary details

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How much do payroll specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 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.

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 are Payroll Specialists?

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.

How much do payroll specialists earn?

Payroll specialists typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Salaries can increase with certifications such as the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) and proficiency in payroll software like ADP or Paychex.

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 exactly does a payroll specialist do?

A payroll specialist is responsible for processing employee compensation, ensuring accurate calculation of wages, taxes, and deductions. They maintain payroll records, comply with legal regulations, and often use payroll software to manage payments efficiently.

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.

Is a payroll specialist a difficult job?

A payroll specialist role involves managing employee compensation, ensuring accurate processing of payroll, and complying with tax laws, which requires attention to detail and knowledge of payroll software. The job can be challenging during busy periods or when handling complex payroll issues, but it generally relies on established procedures and tools. Success in this role depends on accuracy, organizational skills, and understanding of payroll regulations.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,633 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
Payroll Specialist

$70K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 13 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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