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Payroll Specialist

​What does a Payroll Specialist do?

A payroll specialist is primarily responsible for processing payroll and maintaining the employee database regarding salary and pay. Other duties include managing the company budget and expense as well as cooperating with different departments to increase payroll service performance and improve upon the payroll system. Typical career advancements for payroll specialist include a managerial or supervisory role in the company.

Although a high school diploma or equivalent is the minimal requirement for a payroll specialist, an associate's or bachelor's degree in business or accounting is preferred. Due to the nature of the position, a strong knowledge of tax and wage laws and common fiscal procedures is necessary along with excellent communication skills and computer literacy, especially with Microsoft Office applications. Ideal candidates are physically able to sit in front of a computer every work day for long hours at a time.

What responsibilities are common for Payroll Specialist jobs?

Process payroll for employees in the organization

Maintain personnel database regarding salaries

Manage organization budget and expenses

Report to department supervisor regarding daily activities and issues

Work directly with clients to achieve organization goals as required

Address and resolve employee complaints relating to the payroll system

Work with company database programs to process payroll

Prepare reports to relevant departments about payroll, company budget and expense