Payroll Clerk Job Description Template

Tatia Tatoshvili

Last updated on December 13, 2024 | 5 min read

Job Description Template

General overview of the role

A Payroll Clerk is responsible for processing payroll accurately and on time while maintaining comprehensive employee records and ensuring strict compliance with tax laws, regulations, and organizational policies. This role involves calculating hours worked, managing deductions, preparing detailed reports, and collaborating closely with HR and finance teams to ensure seamless payroll operations. Payroll Clerks also address employee inquiries regarding pay, benefits, and discrepancies, playing a vital role in fostering trust, accuracy, and efficiency. Additionally, they contribute to the development of payroll systems and processes, ensuring continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Typical duties and responsibilities

• Process payroll for employees, ensuring accurate calculations of wages, hours worked, overtime, and deductions.
• Maintain and update payroll records, including employee details, tax withholdings, and benefit deductions.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws, regulations, and reporting requirements.
• Address employee inquiries regarding payroll discrepancies, paychecks, and tax-related questions promptly and professionally.
• Assist in preparing and filing payroll tax returns, W-2 forms, and other mandatory payroll reports.
• Collaborate with HR to onboard and offboard employees, ensuring accurate payroll setup and terminations.
• Support the implementation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of payroll software and systems.
• Assist with year-end payroll processes, including preparing annual reports and documentation for audits.

Required skills and experience

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry, calculations, and payroll record maintenance.
• Knowledge of payroll procedures, tax regulations, and employment laws to ensure compliance.
• Proficiency in payroll software such as ADP, Paychex, or QuickBooks, and strong Microsoft Excel skills.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills to meet strict payroll deadlines efficiently.
• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with employees and resolve payroll-related inquiries.
• High school diploma or equivalent educational background; an associate degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is preferred.
• 1–3 years of proven experience in payroll processing or related administrative roles, showcasing reliability and expertise.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism.

Nice to have/preferred skills and experience

• Certification in payroll processing, such as Certified Payroll Professional (CPP), to demonstrate advanced expertise.
• Experience with electronic payroll systems and timekeeping software to streamline payroll operations.
• Familiarity with HR processes, including employee benefits administration, to enhance cross-functional collaboration.
• Knowledge of payroll reporting and analytics tools to provide insights into payroll trends and performance.
• Experience in preparing for and managing payroll audits to ensure regulatory compliance and accuracy.

What we offer

• Extensive health and wellness coverage.
• Work-from-home options and flexible hours.
• Paid time off for vacations, holidays, and sick leave.

Here are a few more benefits that, according to Forbes, are valued by employees:

• Retirement savings plans with employer matching, such as 401(k) plans, are significant to employees.
• Early leave on Fridays.
• 4-day work week.
• Private dental insurance.

About us

We recommend including general information about the company, such as its mission, values, and industry focus. For instance, you could say:

“DevsData LLC is an IT recruitment agency that connects top tech talent with leading companies to drive innovation and success. Their diverse team of US specialists brings unique viewpoints and cultural insights, boosting their capacity to meet client demands and build inclusive work cultures. Over the past 8 years, DevsData LLC has successfully completed more than 80 projects for startups and corporate clients in the US and Europe.”

Explore sample resumes

Explore these effective resume examples to guide your focus and priorities during the candidate review.

• Payroll Specialist Resume Sample
• Accounting Manager Resume Sample
• Accounts Payable Resume Sample

Contact DevsData LLC

If you’re looking to hire a qualified CAD Engineer, reach out to DevsData LLC at general@devsdata.com or visit www.devsdata.com. The company’s recruitment process is thorough and efficient, utilizing a vast database of over 65000 professionals.

They are renowned for their rigorous 90-minute interviews to assess candidates’ technical skills and problem-solving abilities.

Additionally, DevsData LLC holds a government-approved recruitment license, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.