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Payroll Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

CSM COMPANIES INC GROUP

Payroll Specialist

Madison, WI · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing accurate and timely payroll for approximately 1,000+ employees across multiple states. This role supports weekly payroll processing for bi-weekly ...

CFS

Payroll Specialist

Madison, WI

$65K - $75K/yr

Payroll Specialist Salary: $65,000-$75,000 Why Join Our Client? * Come casual everyday - jeans and a nice shirt are fine! * Outstanding team that brings a fun and outgoing culture. * Strong benefits ...

CSM COMPANIES INC GROUP

Payroll Specialist

Madison, WI · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing accurate and timely payroll for approximately 1,000+ employees across multiple states. This role supports weekly payroll processing for bi-weekly ...

CFS

Payroll Specialist

Stoughton, WI · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

Payroll Specialist Salary: $60,000-$70,000 Why This Opportunity Stands Out: * Join a globally backed, financially stable manufacturing company with major growth on the horizon--they just completed a ...

Lands' End

Payroll Analyst (Hybrid)

Dodgeville, WI · Hybrid

Manage the entire process around all required payroll tax withholdings (federal, state, local, etc.), ensuring a high level of accuracy with a focus on compliance. * Maintain the knowledge to manage ...

Oakwood Village

Finance Specialist - Payroll

Madison, WI

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Manages payroll workload. Ensure payroll is processed in an accurate, compliant, and timely manner. * Act as administrator of payroll softoware including management of employee information.

Lands' End

Payroll Analyst (Hybrid)

Dodgeville, WI · On-site

Manage the entire process around all required payroll tax withholdings (federal, state, local, etc.), ensuring a high level of accuracy with a focus on compliance. * Maintain the knowledge to manage ...

Bakertilly

Senior Payroll Consultant

Madison, WI · On-site +1

As a Senior Payroll Consultant within our Human Resources & Payroll Consulting team, you will support a variety of client engagements focused on payroll operations, compliance, and process ...

Vogel Bros. Building Co

Senior Payroll Specialist

Madison, WI · On-site

$29.50 - $40/hr

Senior Payroll Specialist- On-site Madison, WI Do you love accuracy, organization, and helping employees feel supported? We're looking for a friendly, detail-oriented Senior Payroll Specialist to ...

Bakertilly

Specialist, Payroll - Vantagen

Janesville, WI

$23 - $31.50/hr

Ensure client payroll information is accurate within their specific payroll system and resolve any discrepancies * Review and/or process payrolls in a timely manner to meet client deadlines to ...

Bakertilly

Specialist, Payroll - Vantagen

Janesville, WI

$23 - $31.50/hr

Ensure client payroll information is accurate within their specific payroll system and resolve any discrepancies * Review and/or process payrolls in a timely manner to meet client deadlines to ...

Bakertilly

Specialist, Payroll - Vantagen

Madison, WI

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Ensure client payroll information is accurate within their specific payroll system and resolve any discrepancies * Review and/or process payrolls in a timely manner to meet client deadlines to ...

Bakertilly

Specialist, Payroll - Vantagen

Madison, WI

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Ensure client payroll information is accurate within their specific payroll system and resolve any discrepancies * Review and/or process payrolls in a timely manner to meet client deadlines to ...

Emmi Roth

Payroll & Total Rewards Coordinator

Stoughton, WI · On-site

$21.75 - $29/hr

Summary The Payroll & Total Rewards Coordinator plays a critical role in supporting payroll execution, benefits administration, and compensation reporting. This position is responsible for processing ...

CFS

Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Mcfarland, WI

$65K - $73K/yr

Looking for a payroll and benefits role where you can truly make your mark? This is a newly created position offering the opportunity to build processes, take ownership, and play a key role in ...

CFS

Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Madison, WI

$55K - $65K/yr

Payroll & Benefits Specialist Salary: $55,000-$65,000 Why This Opportunity Stands Out * Join a family-owned company with a strong reputation, continued growth, and a relaxed, team-oriented culture.

CFS

Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Edgerton, WI · Hybrid

$47K - $61K/yr

Payroll & Benefits Specialist Salary: $60,000-$70,000 + Bonus Why You'll Love This Opportunity Join a growing manufacturing company that values employee development, career growth, and a culture ...

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All JobsPayroll JobsPayroll Jobs in Madison, WI

Payroll information

See Madison, WI salary details

$15

$27

$39

How much do payroll jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll in Madison, WI is $27.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is payroll a good career to get into?

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 finance. The job can offer steady employment and opportunities for advancement in HR or finance departments.

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.

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 like the Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) can enhance job prospects.

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.

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 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.

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.
More about Payroll jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Payroll jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Payroll jobs in Madison, WI?

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

What job categories do people searching Payroll jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Payroll jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Payroll jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Payroll job openings:

Payroll jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payroll job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $57,417 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Payroll Specialist

CSM COMPANIES INC GROUP

Madison, WI • On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

CSM Companies, Inc., located in Madison, WI, is seeking a talented individual to take on the Payroll Specialist position! This position is ideal for those who enjoy working in a busy, professional environment. Excellent benefits offered. Responsibilities include managing and processing the accurate bi-weekly and monthly payrolls for all employees. CSM values their employees and strives to offer opportunities for professional growth.
Summary:
The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing accurate and timely payroll for approximately 1,000+ employees across multiple states. This role supports weekly payroll processing for bi-weekly North and South pay cycles, ensuring compliance with wage and hour laws, benefits deductions, and internal controls. The Payroll Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for payroll-related inquiries and partners closely with Operations, Accounting, and Human Resources.
Responsibilities:
  • Manage and process bi-weekly payrolls for hourly, salaried and commissioned employees.
  • Review and validate timecards, overtime, commission and pay differentials.
  • Process off-cycle payrolls, bonuses, commissions, and final pay.
  • Ensure payroll deadlines and cutoff schedules are met.
  • Ensure proper audit systems are in place to account for accurate pay and benefit changes.

Duties:
  • Process payroll changes including, but not limited to, new hires, terminations, internal transfers, garnishments, manual checks, leave request, various payroll deductions, etc.
  • Process garnishments, tax levies, and child support orders
  • Ensure compliance with and follow controls to achieve an error free payroll and detect any discrepancies before they appear on an employee's check or impact payroll
  • Generate a variety of routine reports relating to payroll, time, paid leave, etc.
  • Manage and maintain payments for employee cash reimbursements and expense reports for credit card reconciliation
  • Evaluate process and reporting improvements as needed
  • Problem solve and respond to employee's payroll questions
  • Assist with W-2 questions and corrections
  • Prepare payroll, headcount, overtime, and turnover reports
  • Partner with Operations on timekeeping accuracy
  • Escalate payroll issues and risks to leadership
  • Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times
  • Other duties as required

Education, Skills, Experience:
  • Associate's degree in Business or related field; Bachelor's degree is preferred
  • Five years of applicable experience managing the payroll process, multi-state experience is preferred
  • Experience processing payroll for 500+ employees preferred
  • Strong knowledge of wage & hour laws
  • Experience with complex pay cycles and variable compensation
  • Proficiency with HRIS/payroll systems (ADP, UKG, Paycom, Paylocity, etc.)
  • High attention to detail and confidentiality
  • Excellent proficiency in MS office (Solid Excel skills is a must)
  • Ability to organize and prioritize tasks to meet strict deadlines
  • Must have strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks while paying close attention to detail
  • Strong personal integrity, confidentiality, and discretion

Work Environment, Physical Demands:
  • Ability to sit, stand, bend, kneel, stoop and lift/move up to 50lbs. on a regular basis
  • Ability to work in an environment to include 8-12-hour days, and flexibility to extend working hours when necessary

CSM Job Standards Accountabilities:
Customer Focus: Actively looking for ways to identify customer needs. Then efficiently and effectively addressing those needs.
Communication - Visual and Verbal: Listening, speaking, and signaling so others can understand. Communicate in spoken English well enough to be understood by others.
Teamwork: Working cooperatively in a professional demeanor to complete work assignments.
Health, Safety, and Security: Recognize and mitigate safety hazards including hazardous materials, environmental hazards, and accident conditions on a construction site. Follow appropriate security procedures.
Scheduling and Coordinating: Making arrangements that fulfill all requirements as efficiently and economically as possible.
Problem Solving/Decision-making: Being open to change and to considerable variety in the workplace. Understanding the importance of learning new information for future problem solving and decision making.
Adaptability and Lifelong Learning: Being open to change and to considerable variety in the workplace. Understanding the importance of learning new information for future problem solving and decision making.
Note: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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