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Payroll Subject Matter Expert Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Subject Matter Expert

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$120 - $135/hr

Title: Subject Matter Expert Subject Matter Expert KBR, in support of the Volpe Center's Transportation Technology and Engineering Mission Solutions (TTEMS) program, is seeking a Subject Matter ...

Astrion

Subject Matter Expert 1

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Overview Subject Matter Expert 1 Location : NASA Michoud Assembly Facility Job Status : Full-Time Travel: Limited, as needed Must be a US citizen Join the NASA CPSS II team at Marshall Space Flight ...

gTANGIBLE

Cloud Subject Matter Expert

Arlington, VA · On-site

Cloud Subject Matter Expert Location: Arlington, VA Security Clearance:Secret Duties and Responsibilities The Cloud Subject Matter Expert (SME) supports this Transportation Security Administration ...

BVG & Company

Subject Matter Expert I

Washington, DC · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

The Subject Matter Expert I (SME I) full-time position supports the headquarters staff for a U.S. Federal agency and its stakeholders. In support of the agency's mission, the SME I is a tactical ...

Creative G C

Subject Matter Expert II

Washington, DC · On-site

Subject Matter Expert II [Domain: (Analytical, organic or inorganic chemistry experience with extensive knowledge of cosmetics manufacturing industry)] Location: DMV (On-site in metro-based area ...

Scires

CAC2S Subject Matter Expert

North Charleston, SC · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Description We are seeking a motivated Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S) Subject Matter Expert to join our team supporting the United States Marine Corps. In this role, you will ...

BigBear.ai

Army SME (Subject Matter Expert)

Mclean, VA · On-site

Residency All applicants must currently reside in the United States Overview BigBear.ai is seeking an Army Subject Matter Expert (SME) to work in the Pentagon with our current team in support of the ...

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Payroll Subject Matter Expert information

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$15

$27

$39

How much do payroll subject matter expert jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll subject matter expert 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 subject matter expert?

A Payroll Subject Matter Expert (SME) is a professional with in-depth knowledge and expertise in payroll processes, regulations, and best practices. They are responsible for advising organizations on complex payroll issues, ensuring compliance with tax laws and labor regulations, and optimizing payroll systems. Payroll SMEs often serve as the go-to resource for payroll-related questions, training, and troubleshooting within a company. Their role is crucial in maintaining accurate and efficient payroll operations, minimizing errors, and supporting organizational changes such as system upgrades or policy updates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a payroll subject matter expert?

To thrive as a Payroll Subject Matter Expert, you need deep knowledge of payroll processes, tax regulations, and compliance, often supported by a degree in accounting or business and relevant payroll certifications. Familiarity with payroll software systems like ADP, SAP, or Workday, as well as spreadsheet tools, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly are vital soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure accurate payroll operations, legal compliance, and effective support for both employees and organizational leadership.

What are some common challenges faced by payroll subject matter experts when implementing new payroll systems?

Payroll Subject Matter Experts often encounter challenges such as ensuring data accuracy during system migrations, adapting to new software functionalities, and training team members on updated processes. They must also stay up-to-date with compliance requirements and work closely with HR, IT, and finance departments to ensure seamless integration and minimal disruption to payroll cycles. Effective communication and strong project management skills are essential to navigate these challenges and support a successful system rollout.

What is the difference between Payroll Subject Matter Expert vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll Subject Matter ExpertPayroll Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires certifications like CPP or FPCMay have similar certifications but often less advanced
Work EnvironmentFocuses on complex payroll issues, policy development, and trainingHandles day-to-day payroll processing and data entry
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large organizations, HR departments, payroll consultingCommon in HR and payroll departments across industries
Search & Comparison IntentCompared for expertise level and problem-solving skillsCompared for operational payroll tasks

The Payroll Subject Matter Expert specializes in complex payroll issues, policy development, and training, often requiring advanced certifications. In contrast, a Payroll Specialist handles routine payroll processing and data entry. While both roles are essential in payroll operations, the SME provides strategic guidance and expertise, whereas the Specialist focuses on daily transactional tasks.

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Payroll Subject Matter Expert jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll Subject Matter Expert job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,982 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Subject Matter Expert

KBR

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$120 - $135/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Title:

Subject Matter Expert

Subject Matter Expert

KBR, in support of the Volpe Center's Transportation Technology and Engineering Mission Solutions (TTEMS) program, is seeking a Subject Matter Expert.

The Volpe Center supports the Department of Transportation modes, other agencies in the federal government, and non-federal projects related to research and innovation in transportation. The Volpe Center serves as a multidisciplinary center of expertise for the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and other federal agencies. The Volpe Center works to anticipate emerging transportation issues and provides technical, operational, and institutional solutions to complex global challenges. It focuses on key priorities such as safety, infrastructure, innovation, and efficiency.

KBR's Subject Matter Expert (SME) will support the development of enroute supersonic aircraft noise Standards and Recommended Practices (SARP). This task includes leading the Volpe and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) delegation to the Supersonic Task Group (SSTG) to drive SARP development in supersonic air travel.

Candidate must be able to obtain Public Trust Clearance. This position requires an individual to have resided in the United States for 3 out of the last 5 years.

Essential Job functions:

  • Leading the ICAO CAEP Supersonic Task Group (SSTG) to drive SARP development, ensuring US interests are protected during technical discussions.
  • Leading SSTG includes the organization and facilitation of technical subgroup and ad-hoc group meetings. The SME will also provide technical planning, analysis, and advice on the milestones and deliverables of SSTG.
  • The SME will travel, if necessary, to attend WG1 meetings in-person and produce Information Papers and/or Working Papers to accomplish the milestones and deliverables

Basic Qualifications

  • This position requires United States residency for three of the last five years.
  • Must be able to be cleared for a position of Public Trust through the Department of Transportation.
  • Demonstrated technical competence and experience in supersonic aircraft-related programs and analyses.
  • Understanding of customer mission and strategic goals.
  • Good communicator and adept at presenting technical analysis reports
  • Strong interpersonal skills to interact with stakeholders: sponsors, customers, as well as project technical staff.

Basic Compensation:
$120.00 - $135.00 hourly

This pay range applies to Cambridge, MA location only.


The offered rate will be based on contract affordability and the selected candidate's working location, knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience, and in consideration of internal parity.

KBR Benefits:


KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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