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Payroll Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Prepare and process payroll * Generate 1099s and W2s and calculate and prepare tax statements * Communicate with clients, client suppliers, vendors and banking contacts * Assist in client retention ...

HR Manager

Rochester, MN · On-site

$31.25 - $33.65/hr

This position is accountable for the general day to day operations of human resources, payroll, and benefits in compliance with federal and state laws and regulations and effectively interacts with ...

HR Manager

Rochester, MN · On-site

$31.25 - $33.65/hr

This position is accountable for the general day to day operations of human resources, payroll, and benefits in compliance with federal and state laws and regulations and effectively interacts with ...

Store Manager

Rochester, MN · On-site

$19.55 - $24.45/hr

Keep watch (like the Night's Watch) on shrink/loss prevention, payroll hours, schedules, and external factors that will affect business * Collaboratively communicate with retail leadership and HQ ...

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Payroll information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$15

$27

$39

How much do payroll jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll in Rochester, MN is $27.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.98 and $31.30 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 Rochester, MN?

The most popular types of Payroll jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What job categories do people searching Payroll jobs in Rochester, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Payroll jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Payroll jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Payroll job openings:

Infographic showing various Payroll job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $57,922 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

$24 - $32.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Ashley Furniture rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 293 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 52 rated furniture manufacturers


Job description

Build Your Career with Ashley

Join a team committed to keeping Ashley the world’s largest manufacturer of furniture.

Payroll Specialist

What Will You Do?

The Payroll Specialist will process weekly hourly payrolls for all Ashley Companies and prepare related reports.

  • Process payrolls: process employee miscellaneous deductions, receive hours/wage data via AS400 and Excel, audit driver trip packets, import data into HRIS, make adjustments (data entry) as necessary, run reports, verify reports, print checks and sort checks.
  • Work closely with offsite payroll departments and other internal departments and/or supervisors to coordinate the completion of weekly payrolls.
  • Prepare payroll reports.
  • Perform audit of select information entered by the Human Resource Department, other clerical tasks such as filing, data entry, review of scanned documents and handle payroll related calls and inquiries.
  • Answer questions from supervisors and employees regarding pay.

What Do You Need?

  • Associate Degree in Accounting or related field or equivalent work experience, required.
  • 6 months of hands-on payroll experience or general office experience, required.
  • Experience with computerized payroll systems and document management systems desired.

Who We Are

At Ashley, we’re more than a business…we’re family. As the largest manufacturer of home furnishings in the world, we know what it takes to build incredible furniture and future leaders. We’re problem solvers with the grit to persevere during challenging times and innovators who won't coast when times are good. We create solutions, not excuses. And never settle for status quo. It’s the reason we’re always searching for better ways to delivering an exceptional customer experience. That's why Ashley Furniture is #1 in our industry.

Ready to grow? You’ve come to the right place. Ashley Furniture has a “Growth Mindset”, and once you join our team, you’ll learn from the best in the business.

Apply today and find your home at Ashley!

Benefits We Offer

  • Health, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Your Birthday off
  • Generous Employee Discount on home furnishings
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Ashley Wellness Centers (location specific) and Medical Tourism
  • Telehealth
  • 401(k) and Profit Sharing
  • Life Insurance

Our Core Values

  • Honesty & Integrity
  • Passion, Drive, Discipline
  • Continuous Improvement/Operational Excellence
  • Dirty Fingernail
  • Growth Focused\

To learn more about Ashley Furniture, our community engagement programs, environmental stewardship, and our core values, please visit our Corporate Social Responsibility information page: Corporate Social Responsibility

We are an equal opportunity employer and provide a drug-free working environment. While Ashley appreciates the interest of all candidates only those meeting specific position requirements may be contacted. Principals Only.


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