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Payroll Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Accountant

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Job Title Payroll Accountant Cape Fox Shared Services (CFSS) is seeking an experienced Payroll Accountant to work in our beautiful Chantilly office. This position is hybrid with the option for remote ...

Payroll Manager Cooley is seeking a Payroll Manager to join the Accounting and Finance Team. Position Summary : The Payroll Manager oversees the hands-on, day-to-day execution of the firm's entire ...

New

Payroll Manager

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$80 - $90/hr

The Payroll Manager leads a Payroll Specialist, implements process improvements, maintains system integrity, and partners closely with HR, Finance, and external vendors. The role requires strong ...

Payroll Specialist

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Own the accuracy and integrity of semi-monthly US payroll processing for a high-growth AI-Powered Process Automation leader, ensuring seamless employee experiences and compliance across federal ...

Payroll Administrator

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$75K - $109K/yr

The Payroll Administrator works closely with the HR team and Grants Manager and reports to the Accounting Manager. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Include the following. Other duties may be ...

Payroll Manager

Beltsville, MD ยท On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Position Overview The Payroll Manager will direct and manage all aspects of in-house payroll operations for one business unit, ensuring the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of payroll for ...

Payroll Specialist

Annapolis, MD ยท Hybrid

$23.25 - $31.75/hr

Who We Are Looking For The Payroll Specialist is responsible for accurately processing payrolls for all employees, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role requires ...

Payroll Manager

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$65K - $170K/yr

Payroll Director Direct Reports: 2 Payroll Supervisors Position Overview Clark Construction is seeking a high-caliber Payroll Manager to lead our complex, multi-state payroll operations. This role is ...

Payroll Manager

Beltsville, MD ยท On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Position Overview The Payroll Manager will direct and manage all aspects of in-house payroll operations for one business unit, ensuring the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of payroll for ...

Payroll Manager

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$90 - $130/hr

The Payroll Manager oversees end-to-end payroll operations for a multi-state, multi-entity organization, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws and union and Service Contract Act ...

Payroll Specialist

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The ideal candidate has prior experience in payroll, accounting, or clerical work, strong organizational skills, and a customer-service mindset when working with our field crews and office staff.

Payroll Clerk

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

The Payroll Clerk is an entry-level position responsible for supporting the day-to-day administration and processing of payroll. This role works closely with the Payroll and Human Resources teams to ...

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Payroll Analyst

Silver Spring, MD ยท Hybrid

$65K - $85K/yr

As the Payroll Analyst, you will be responsible for payroll processing activities and review, payroll audit and reconciliation support, regulatory compliance application, and reporting and analysis.

Payroll Manager

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$100 - $140/hr

The Payroll Manager oversees end-to-end payroll operations for a multi-state, multi-entity organization, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws and union and Service Contract Act ...

Payroll Administrator

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$24.50 - $33/hr

Cherry Bekaert Recruiting is seeking a Payroll Administrator to manage bi-weekly payroll for approximately 350 employees . Role is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing ...

Payroll Specialist

Annapolis, MD ยท Hybrid

$23.25 - $31.75/hr

Who We Are Looking For The Payroll Specialist is responsible for accurately processing payrolls for all employees, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role requires ...

Cherry Bekaert Recruiting is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Payroll Specialist to oversee and manage end-to-end payroll operations. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate ...

Payroll Specialist

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Overview The Payroll Specialist processes all aspects of biweekly payroll with accuracy and compliance. This role serves as the main contact for managers and hourly associates, resolving pay issues ...

Payroll Manager Cooley is seeking a Payroll Manager to join the Accounting and Finance Team. Position Summary : The Payroll Manager oversees the hands-on, day-to-day execution of the firm's entire ...

New

Showing results 41-60

Payroll information

See Washington salary details

$17

$31

$44

How much do payroll jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll in Washington is $31.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.58 and $34.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is payroll?

Payroll refers to the process by which employers pay their employees for the work they have performed. This includes calculating wages, withholding taxes and deductions, distributing paychecks, and maintaining records of employee earnings. Payroll professionals ensure that all legal and regulatory requirements are met and that employees are paid accurately and on time. Managing payroll also involves handling benefits, overtime, bonuses, and compliance with labor laws.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a payroll specialist?

To thrive as a Payroll Specialist, you need strong numerical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of payroll laws and regulations, typically supported by a degree in accounting or a related field. Proficiency with payroll software (such as ADP, Paychex, or QuickBooks) and knowledge of HRIS systems and tax compliance are essential. Excellent organizational skills, discretion, and effective communication help you handle sensitive data and resolve employee inquiries efficiently. These skills ensure accurate and timely payroll processing, compliance with legal requirements, and employee satisfaction.

What are the most common challenges faced by payroll professionals, and how can they be managed effectively?

Payroll professionals often encounter challenges such as staying current with ever-changing tax laws, managing tight deadlines for payroll processing, and ensuring absolute accuracy to avoid costly errors. Effective management involves maintaining up-to-date knowledge of regulations, leveraging reliable payroll software, and developing strong organizational habits. Regular communication with HR and finance teams also helps identify and resolve discrepancies early, fostering a smooth payroll cycle.

What is the difference between Payroll vs Bookkeeper?

AspectPayrollBookkeeper
Primary RoleCalculates employee wages, manages tax deductions, and processes paymentsMaintains financial records, records transactions, and manages accounts
Required CredentialsKnowledge of payroll laws, payroll software, sometimes certifications like CPPBasic accounting knowledge, often bookkeeping certifications
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often HR or finance departmentsOffice environment, accounting or finance departments
Industry UsageCommonly used in HR, finance, and payroll service providersUsed across small to large businesses for financial record-keeping

Payroll specialists focus on employee compensation, tax deductions, and compliance, while bookkeepers handle overall financial record-keeping and transaction management. Both roles are essential for business financial health but serve different functions within the finance department.

How do you become a payroll?

To become a payroll professional, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of payroll processes, tax regulations, and payroll software. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in accounting or human resources, and certifications such as the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) can enhance job prospects.

Is payroll a good career?

Payroll is a stable career that involves processing employee compensation, managing tax deductions, and ensuring compliance with regulations. It requires attention to detail, proficiency with payroll software, and often a basic understanding of accounting or HR principles. The role can offer steady employment and opportunities for advancement in finance or human resources.

Is payroll a stressful job?

Payroll professionals are responsible for accurately processing employee compensation and ensuring compliance with tax laws, which can involve tight deadlines and attention to detail. The job can be stressful during busy periods such as payroll processing deadlines or audits, but effective organization and familiarity with payroll software can help manage workload and reduce stress.

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Payroll jobs in Washington?

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Payroll jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Payroll job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,538 per year, or $31 per hour.

Payroll Accountant

Cape Fox Corporation

Chantilly, VA โ€ข On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Payroll Accountant
Job Description
Cape Fox Shared Services (CFSS) is seeking an experienced Payroll Accountant to work in our beautiful Chantilly office. This position is hybrid with the option for remote work.
The salary range (or hiring range) for this exempt position has been established at: $75,000 - $80,000.
The above salary range represents the company's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. In addition, we offer a variety of benefits including company holidays, paid time off, health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life and disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, as well as 401K with company match. This job will be posted until filled or withdrawn.
The Payroll Accountant is responsible for supporting the accurate and timely processing of payroll for multiple subsidiaries across bi-weekly and semi-monthly pay cycles. This position performs a broad range of payroll functions, including processing payroll transactions, reviewing and reconciling payroll reports, validating labor and wage activity, researching and resolving payroll discrepancies, and responding to payroll-related inquiries.
The Payroll Accountant will also support payroll tax administration, including the research and resolution of tax filing, remittance, and amendment issues. In addition, this position will assist with payroll accounting functions, including the preparation of payroll journal entries, payroll-related balance sheet reconciliations, general ledger reconciliations, and supporting schedules and documentation.
This role requires an understanding of payroll processes and accounting principles, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to analyze and reconcile payroll data across multiple systems and entities. The Payroll Accountant plays an important role in maintaining the accuracy and integrity of payroll transactions while supporting timely, compliant, and efficient payroll operations.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
โ€ข Responsible for processing bi-weekly /semi-monthly payroll transactions for assigned entities, ensuring that back-up documentation is in accordance with established company policies and procedures.
โ€ข Responsible for preparing balancing reports to ensure payroll documents and transactions match the totals in the payroll system.
โ€ข Perform review/audit of payroll registers to fulfill internal controls at the conclusion of each period
โ€ข Assist with the preparation of payroll journal entries and supporting documentation for posting to the general ledger.
โ€ข Assist with monthly reconciliations of payroll-related balance sheet accounts and research identified variances or discrepancies.
โ€ข Assist with quarterly 941 reconciliations and research identified variances.
โ€ข Assist with troubleshooting issues regarding the company payroll software, ADP, and research to resolve payroll-related issues or errors as they arise
โ€ข Assist with maintaining the shared payroll mailbox and retrieving/organizing payroll action forms (PAFs), direct deposit and tax forms for timely processing.
โ€ข In cooperation with HR, complete income verifications, unemployment and wage information requests submitted by state and local agencies
โ€ข Assist with new hires project ID requests for setup and work with Accounting to furnish information for setting up expense accounts
โ€ข Administer wage attachment/garnishment processing and setup along with contacting all parties as mandated by the order
โ€ข Review address change requests and update tax records as needed, along with applying the appropriate reciprocity rules in place for specific states.
โ€ข Track and manage the registration of new state withholding, unemployment and local jurisdiction accounts
โ€ข Work with ADP to ensure that all tax related items are being filed on time; research and work to resolve tax items that have not been filed
โ€ข Assist with month-end and year-end payroll accounting activities and ensure required payroll documentation is completed and maintained.
โ€ข Assist with researching and resolving outstanding payroll-related reconciling items.
โ€ข Demonstrate working knowledge of FLSA laws; ensure that new hire and termination pay is prorated accurately
โ€ข Assist with downloading final payroll reports to the appropriate files
โ€ข Detect missed benefit deductions by sending unused deduction reports to HR and save associated documentation in the designated folder for payroll processing
โ€ข Create and send reports of hours worked each month for the Joint Commission Compliance Reporting.
โ€ข Compose ad-hoc reports for management and accounting team
Travel Requirements
0 - 10%
Job Requirements
โ€ข Bachelor's Degree in a business-related field preferred
โ€ข Minimum of 3 years' work experience
โ€ข ADP Workforce experience required
โ€ข Deltek Costpoint 7 or higher experience required
โ€ข Deltek Time & Expense 9 or higher (but prefer 10.0) experience
โ€ข Experience processing labor for a government contractor
โ€ข Solid understanding of basic accounting principles
โ€ข Self-motivated with minimal oversight and able to manage strict deadlines
โ€ข Exceptional attention to detail
โ€ข Excellent customer service skills and exemplary organizational and analytical skills
โ€ข Proficient with MS Excel, Word and Outlook applications.
โ€ข Must be a team player and comfortable working in a high-volume department.
โ€ข Ability to interface with all levels of management
โ€ข Must have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986.
Category
Accounting / Finance
Location
Chantilly Office - CapeFoxFCG - Chantilly, VA 20151 US (Primary)
Education
Bachelor's Degree