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Payroll Specialist Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Payroll Specialist will support payroll processing for a diverse workforce, including U.S. and Canadian payroll operations. This is a strong opportunity to gain hands-on experience with complex ...

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Payroll Specialist

Decatur, IL · On-site

$31K - $41K/yr

Corporate Payroll Specialist (US & Canadian Operations) Role Overview We are seeking a highly detailed and customer-service-driven Corporate Payroll Specialist to join our centralized financial ...

Payroll Specialist

Decatur, IL · On-site

$31K - $41K/yr

Global Payroll Specialist (US & Canada) Role Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented and service-driven Payroll Specialist to join our Corporate Payroll team. In this role, you will be the direct ...

Payroll Manager

Decatur, IL · On-site

$124K/yr

Senior Manager, North American Payroll Operations (US & Canada) Role Overview We are seeking a dynamic and highly experienced Senior Manager of Payroll Operations to lead our North American payroll ...

Training Specialist

Decatur, IL · On-site

$20.05/hr

... Training Specialist trains persons served in a specified vocational area at a work site as ... Must be able to maintain payroll, financial, personnel, and information related to persons served ...

Monarch Manufacturing, Inc.'s Human Resources Department's Human Resources Specialist is responsible for managing an employee's experience, from the application process to when they leave the company.

Payroll Specialist information

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$26

$38

How much do payroll specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll specialist in Decatur, IL is $26.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $29.86 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, IL? The most popular types of Payroll Specialist jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Payroll Specialist jobs in Decatur, IL? For Payroll Specialist jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Payroll Specialist jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Payroll Specialist jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Payroll Specialist jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Payroll Specialist job openings:
Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist

AppleOne

Decatur, IL

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted yesterday

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Job description

Job Summary
A leading organization in Decatur, IL is seeking a Payroll Specialist for a temp-to-hire opportunity within its Corporate Payroll team. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented accounting or payroll professional who enjoys accuracy, compliance, problem solving, and providing excellent internal customer service.
The Payroll Specialist will support payroll processing for a diverse workforce, including U.S. and Canadian payroll operations. This is a strong opportunity to gain hands-on experience with complex payroll functions, tax documentation, reconciliations, payroll records, and process improvement initiatives.
Candidates can expect a fast-paced, collaborative environment with supportive leadership, strong teamwork, and the opportunity to build valuable payroll expertise. This position offers stability, visibility across departments, and a path to contribute meaningfully to a customer-focused payroll team.
Key Responsibilities
- Process U.S. and Canadian payroll accurately and within required deadlines.
- Research, troubleshoot, and resolve payroll discrepancies, processing issues, and employee payroll inquiries.
- Complete payroll reconciliations, maintain payroll records, and ensure secure handling of confidential employee payroll data.
- Prepare and process payroll tax documentation, including Forms 941, W2, T4, and other required filings.
- Communicate professionally with management, employees, and cross-functional departments regarding payroll matters.
- Document payroll procedures, support process improvements, and serve as backup for non-exempt payroll processing.
Compensation and Benefits
- Pay: $20.00 per hour.
- Job Type: Temp-to-Hire.
- Location: Decatur, IL.
- Background check required upon successful completion of the hiring process.


Equal Opportunity Employer / Disabled / Protected Veterans
The Know Your Rights poster is available here:
https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12.pdf
The pay transparency policy is available here:
https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ofccp/pdf/pay-transp_%20English_formattedESQA508c.pdf
For temporary assignments lasting 13 weeks or longer, the Company is pleased to offer major medical, dental, vision, 401k and any statutory sick pay where required.
We are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact your staffing representative who will reach out to our HR team.
AppleOne participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law. Learn more about the E-Verify program.
https://e-verify.uscis.gov/web/media/resourcesContents/E-Verify_Participation_Poster_ES.pdf
We also consider for employment qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements, including, if applicable, the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. Pursuant to applicable state and municipal Fair Chance Laws and Ordinances, we will consider for employment-qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records, including, if applicable, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. For Los Angeles, CA applicants: Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.
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Company Description

This company offers growth and a great group of people to work with.

AppleOne logo

About AppleOne

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AppleOne is a renowned staffing service based in Glendale, California, USA. Positioned in the Human Resources industry, the company offers extensive staffing and recruiting solutions, such as temporary, full-time, and part-time placement, to companies across diverse industry sectors. The company was established by Bernie Howroyd in 1964, launching the business to aid others in finding excellent jobs and companies in finding excellent people.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Glendale, CA, US

Year founded

1964