Payroll Clerk Job Description Template

About the Role: Payroll Clerk

A Payroll Clerk plays a crucial role in maintaining accurate records of employees' earnings and deductions. They are responsible for processing and issuing payments, ensuring compliance with government regulations, and compiling data such as hours worked and taxes withheld. Payroll clerks calculate employees' pay, prepare paychecks, and update payroll records. They also resolve discrepancies, respond to payroll-related inquiries, and provide support to HR and management. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a solid understanding of payroll laws and regulations are essential for success in this role.

Job Brief

We are looking for a detail-oriented and reliable Payroll Clerk to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for processing payroll, maintaining accurate records of employee earnings, taxes, and deductions, and ensuring compliance with all relevant payroll laws and regulations. You will compile data such as hours worked, assist in resolving payroll discrepancies, and provide support to HR and management. The ideal candidate will have strong organizational skills, a keen eye for detail, and a solid understanding of payroll processes.

Payroll Clerk Roles & Responsibilities

  • Process and maintain accurate payroll records for employees, ensuring timely and correct payment.

  • Track employee hours worked, overtime, and absences, ensuring compliance with company policies.

  • Calculate employee wages, taxes, deductions, and other contributions in accordance with regulations.

  • Prepare and issue paychecks, including direct deposits and manual checks.

  • Maintain and update payroll records, ensuring all data is accurate and up-to-date.

  • Resolve any payroll discrepancies by investigating and correcting any issues.

  • Respond to payroll-related inquiries from employees, management, and other departments.

  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations, including timely tax filings.

  • Assist HR and management with payroll-related tasks, including audits, reports, and benefits administration.

  • Support year-end payroll processing, including issuing W-2s and other necessary tax documents.

  • Stay updated on payroll laws and best practices to ensure continued compliance.

Skills and Requirements for Payroll Clerk:

  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent; a degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is a plus.

  • Experience: Proven experience in payroll processing or a similar role is preferred.

  • Attention to Detail: Ability to accurately process payroll data and catch discrepancies.

  • Knowledge of Payroll Software: Familiarity with payroll systems and software (e.g., ADP, QuickBooks, etc.).

  • Mathematical Skills: Strong ability to perform calculations for wages, deductions, and taxes.

  • Communication Skills: Clear and effective written and verbal communication to address employee inquiries and collaborate with HR and management.

  • Organizational Skills: Strong time-management skills to ensure timely and accurate payroll processing.

  • Confidentiality: Ability to maintain sensitive employee information with the utmost confidentiality.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify payroll discrepancies and implement solutions efficiently.

  • Knowledge of Payroll Laws: Familiarity with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including tax laws.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office: Strong skills in Excel and Word for data tracking, reporting, and communication.

  • Customer Service Orientation: Ability to address payroll inquiries and issues professionally and courteously.

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