Payroll Clerk Job Description

What is a Payroll Clerk?

A payroll clerk is responsible for ensuring that employees of the organization are paid accurately and on time. Other duties include managing backend data relating to the hours worked by an employee matched with their pay periods and hourly wages, salaries, overtime, sick days and vacation days. A payroll clerk can advance their career by becoming a certified payroll clerk attained by the American Payroll Association (APA). Other certifications offered by the APA include Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or a Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC).

A payroll clerk is not subject to any formal education requirements beyond a high school diploma or a general education diploma although holding an associate's degree and additional certifications issued by the APA are desirable. Computer technology and software skills are required as part of the job requirements together with strong calculation and organizational skills. Due to the nature of the job, candidates must be physically able to sit in front of a computer for long hours at a time.

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Job Overview

Come work at Example Co., a leading firm in our industry in the metro area. We're pleased to have a 4.0 Glassdoor rating. We are looking to hire an experienced Payroll Clerk to help us keep growing. If you're hard-working and dedicated, Example Co. is an ideal place to get ahead. Apply today!

Responsibilities for Payroll Clerk

  • Distribute employee salary paychecks on time and accurately
  • Maintain accurate records of payments made to employees
  • Keep track of pay periods, hourly wages, salaries, overtime, sick days and vacation days of employees
  • Liaise with the HR department and accounts department to ensure accurate information for payment
  • Utilize computer software for data entry and accounts management
  • File relevant reports and documents as needed
  • Verify employee records and consult departments in the event of a discrepancy
  • Alter tax status of employees where required

Qualifications for Payroll Clerk

  • Administrative technology certificate or an associate's degree is preferred
  • Additional certification issued by the American Payroll Association is desired
  • Proven experience working as a payroll clerk in a fast-paced organization
  • Highly proficient in computer skills and technology
  • Accurate and meticulous in data entry
  • Strong clerical, administrative and general office skills
  • Exceptional calculation and memory skills
  • Good organizational and time-management skills
  • Able to sit in front of a computer for long hours at a time

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