How to Become a Payroll Administrator

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Payroll Administrator

What does a Payroll Administrator do?

A Payroll Administrator is responsible for the accurate preparation, documentation, distribution and reconciliation of payroll and the administration of the payroll system. Reviews the computation of pay and associated deductions for accuracy. Being a Payroll Administrator maintains up-to-date knowledge of city, state, provincial, local, and federal legislation affecting payroll; understands and follows applicable provisions. Prepares required tax filings and other reporting. Additionally, Payroll Administrator may coordinate payroll processing with an outside service provider. Responds to and resolves any inquiries regarding paychecks or payroll reporting. Ensures payroll issues are escalated and resolved promptly. May require an associate degree or equivalent. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. The Payroll Administrator work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. To be a Payroll Administrator typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.

People's Opinions on Payroll Administrator responsibilities

Payroll Administrator Job Description, Duties, and Responsibilities.

12/15/2019: Santa Barbara, CA

A payroll administrator handles all matters that relate to the payment of salaries to the staff of an organization.

01/31/2020: Sioux City, IA

As such, a payroll administrator is the first point of call for an employee in relation to the time of resumption, attendance, and payroll.

12/23/2019: Nashua, NH

Aside the issuance of pay checks, the work description of a payroll administrator includes managing direct deposits, benefit withholding, payroll deductions, paid leave, sick time reporting and the monitoring of employees hour compliance.

01/31/2020: Tucson, AZ

A payroll administrator will provide support to other financial personnel in an organization such as the accounting and reporting department.

01/17/2020: Charleston, WV

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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Payroll Administrator

Best tips for those who want to become a Payroll Administrator

Here are some tips to become a Payroll Administrator.

People's Opinions on best tips

Don’t be afraid to take a unique path to your goal.

01/31/2020: Baltimore, MD

Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Payroll Administrator

Best colleges and universities for Payroll Administrator

Florida Southern College
Colby College
Dartmouth College
University of Notre Dame
Western Washington University
Canisius College

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Payroll Administrator

Is being a Payroll Administrator Worth it?

People's Opinions on lifestyles

You will be responsible for creating, updating and maintaining accurate payroll systems records and handle payroll related enquires.

12/31/2019: Columbus, GA

Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Payroll Administrator

What skills do you need to be a Payroll Administrator?

This is not a management position, but still requires important skills in order to fully execute the role. A keen understanding of the following is necessary for the role: Data Entry-Keyboarding, Direct Deposit Administration, E-filing Employment Tax, Garnishments and Levies, Inquiry Research/Response, Paid time off tracking, Pay and Bonus Calculations, Payroll Administration, Payroll Reconciliation, Payroll Tax Compliance, Payroll Tax Deposits, Payroll Tax Reporting, Timekeeping/Time Sheets, Timesheet Auditing, X form Tax Adjustments. Some of the more basic skills utilized in this role include: Payroll Software, Travel & Expense Software. These skills are certainly important to the role, but keep in mind, fit into a company culture and environment is often just as important.

People's Opinions on Payroll Administrator skills

Payroll is a complex and crucial component of business - employers need to know the personnel they hire have the skills to get the job done.

01/09/2020: Little Rock, AR

Creating a strong, high-performance payroll system is vital to a range of additional business needs - not least fulfilling tax obligations and avoiding costly compliance penalties.

02/17/2020: Orange, CA

The abilities and skills of payroll administrators can make a huge difference to overall performance - capable, skilled staff inspire confidence, eliminate mistakes, and help boost productivity.

02/19/2020: Melbourne, FL

When dealing with those kinds of questions, administrators must be able to observe proper etiquette at all times and deliver an excellent standard of customer service.

01/08/2020: Fayetteville, NC

The payroll process involves a lot of moving parts and, by necessity, an element of human unpredictability.

02/10/2020: Troy, NY

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Step 6: View average salary for Payroll Administrator

How much does a Payroll Administrator make?

The average salary range for a Payroll Administrator is from $56,431 to $71,662. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Payroll Administrator

$56,431 to $71,662

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Average salary for Payroll Administrator jobs

Payroll Administrator II
Payroll Administrator I
Payroll Administrator III
Payroll Administrator IV

Step 7: Find relevant Payroll Administrator jobs, and apply.

Looking for Payroll Administrator jobs?

Here are some Payroll Administrator jobs in the United States.

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How to Become a Payroll Administrator | Salary.com (2024)