1

Payroll Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Specialist

Gladstone, NJ · On-site

$33.25 - $38.50/hr

We are looking for an experienced Payroll Specialist to support payroll operations for a organization in Somerset County, New Jersey. This Long-term Contract position requires someone who can step in ...

Payroll Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Payroll Specialist Summary: The Payroll Specialist position will ensure accurate processing and recording of the company's payroll for all of our Bargaining employees. In addition, this position will ...

Payroll Specialist

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$23 - $31.25/hr

Payroll Specialist Johnson City, TN General Shale, the nation's leading masonry materials manufacturer is seeking a Payroll Specialist for our corporate headquarters in Johnson City, TN. The Payroll ...

Payroll Specialist

Appleton, WI · On-site

$23 - $31.25/hr

The Payroll Specialist will be responsible for processing union payroll, reports, and government taxes. The candidate must be a US Citizen or a green card holder, the position is not eligible for ...

Payroll Specialist

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Payroll Specialist ID: 10055 Location: Virginia Beach, VA Department: Human Resources Salary Range: $50,000-60,000 Travel: No Travel Required More about this job > Description Commonwealth Payroll is ...

Payroll Specialist

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Payroll Specialist Location: Las Vegas, NV (On-Site) About the Role: The Payroll Specialist will be responsible for accurate and timely payroll processing including accounting, reconciliation ...

Payroll Specialist

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$23 - $31.25/hr

Payroll Specialist Johnson City, TN General Shale, the nation's leading masonry materials manufacturer is seeking a Payroll Specialist for our corporate headquarters in Johnson City, TN. The Payroll ...

Payroll Specialist

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$23 - $31.25/hr

Payroll Specialist Johnson City, TN General Shale, the nation's leading masonry materials manufacturer is seeking a Payroll Specialist for our corporate headquarters in Johnson City, TN. The Payroll ...

Payroll Specialist

New York, NY · On-site

$35 - $38/hr

We are currently recruiting for a Payroll Specialist opportunity with a leading healthcare organization in New York, NY . Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM or 9:00 AM-5:00 PM Position Overview ...

Payroll Specialist

Denver, CO

$24.25 - $33/hr

Payroll Specialist Location: In-office Reports to: Lead Account Manager Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt About Comploy Comploy delivers customized payroll and HR solutions designed to fit the ...

Payroll Specialist

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

The Payroll Specialist will assist all staff with payroll related questions, maintain garnishments, and maintainchild support orders. This position requires an extremely detail-orientated person with ...

Payroll Specialist

Brooklyn, NY

$24.75 - $33.75/hr

Payroll Specialist A growing ABA organization is looking for a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join its payroll team. You'll play a hands-on role in keeping payroll running smoothly ...

Be Seen First

Payroll Specialist

Durham, NC · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Payroll Specialist Location: Hybrid - 3 days onsite in Durham, NC Duration: 6 month contract with potential for contract-to-hire A growing financial services organization is seeking a Payroll ...

Payroll Specialist

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Payroll Specialist (Contract) Location: Cedar Rapids, IA Job Type: Contract About the Opportunity Robert Half is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist for a contract opportunity with a growing ...

Payroll Specialist

Abilene, TX · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Payroll Specialist The Payroll Specialist is responsible for administering and processing payroll activities for faculty, staff, student employees, temporary employees, and other employee groups. The ...

Payroll Specialist

Abilene, TX

$22.75 - $31/hr

Payroll Specialist The Payroll Specialist is responsible for administering and processing payroll activities for faculty, staff, student employees, temporary employees, and other employee groups. The ...

Payroll Specialist

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$23 - $31.25/hr

Payroll Specialist Johnson City, TN General Shale, the nation's leading masonry materials manufacturer is seeking a Payroll Specialist for our corporate headquarters in Johnson City, TN. The Payroll ...

Showing results 21-40

Payroll Specialist information

See salary details

$15

$27

$39

How much do payroll specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll specialist in the United States is $27.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Is being a payroll specialist worth it?

A payroll specialist manages employee compensation, tax deductions, and compliance with labor laws, often using payroll software and maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines. The role offers steady employment, opportunities for certification, and skills in finance and administration, making it a valuable career for those interested in HR and finance functions.

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 cities are hiring for Payroll Specialist jobs?

Cities with the most Payroll Specialist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll Specialist jobs?

The most popular types of Payroll Specialist jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Payroll Specialist jobs?

The top employers for Payroll Specialist jobs are:

What states have the most Payroll Specialist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Payroll Specialist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Payroll Specialist jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Payroll Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,982 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Payroll Specialist

Robert Half

Gladstone, NJ • On-site

$33.25 - $38.50/hr

Temporary

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

We are looking for an experienced Payroll Specialist to support payroll operations for a organization in Somerset County, New Jersey. This Long-term Contract position requires someone who can step in quickly, work fully onsite, and manage payroll activities with minimal direction. The role is ideal for someone with strong Paycom expertise who is comfortable handling recurring payroll cycles, employee pay changes, and benefits-related payroll coordination in a fast-paced environment.


Payroll Specialist Responsibilities:

• Process bi-monthly payroll accurately

• Maintain payroll records in Paycom, ensuring employee earnings, deductions, and contract-based compensation are entered and updated correctly.

• Support payroll administration for faculty paid across a 12-month schedule, including review of salary arrangements tied to contract periods.

• Partner with internal contacts and benefits support resources to assist with open enrollment activities and related payroll updates.

• Review payroll data for accuracy, resolve discrepancies promptly, and help protect timely completion of critical payroll deadlines.

• Respond to payroll questions from employees and stakeholders with attention to detail and professionalism.

• Monitor changes affecting pay, benefits, and employee status so they are reflected properly in each payroll cycle.

Payroll Specialist Requirements:

• Hands-on experience processing full-cycle payroll with the ability to contribute immediately and without formal training.

• Experience managing payroll for a mixed employee population that includes salaried, hourly, and stipend-based workers.

• Familiarity with benefits-related payroll coordination, including support during open enrollment periods.

• High level of accuracy, organization, and discretion when handling sensitive payroll information.




Robert Half logo

About Robert Half

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1948, Robert Half pioneered the idea of professional talent solutions to connect opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. As business needs changed, we evolved to offer specialized talent solutions for finance and accounting, technology, administrative and customer support, creative and marketing, and legal fields. In 2002, we introduced our subsidiary, Protiviti, a global independent risk consulting and internal audit service, to support companies as they faced more strategic business challenges.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Ramon, CA, US

Year founded

1948