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Payroll Specialist Job Description

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Overview

payroll specialist
34
The number of occurrences in our database.
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The Payroll Specialist estimates wages, reviews worker data, prepares paychecks, and processes employee payments. Their role is calculating wages, benefits, tax deductions and commissions, collecting timesheet data and payroll information, and entering data into payroll and administrative databases and software programs. Their responsibilities are creating and distributing income statements, processing paychecks and cash deposits, maintaining accurate records of payroll documentation and transactions, performing account balance and payroll reconciliations, and preparing periodic payroll reports for review by management.

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Steps to take to start your career as a Payroll Specialist and other jobs like it

  • Accounting requires a strong foundation in mathematics and analytical abilities. You don’t need more advanced math like calculus but having precision in your mathematical ability is important (the math you do needs to be consistently correct).
  • If you want to progress past being an accounting clerk or bookkeeper, a bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement for many entry level accounting positions. Common majors include accounting, finance, or a related field from an accredited university or college. Some employers may also accept degrees in business administration with a concentration in accounting. Pursuing a master's degree in accounting can open up additional opportunities but isn’t required.
  • Seek internships or entry-level positions in accounting firms, corporations, government agencies, or non-profit organizations to gain practical experience in the field. This hands-on experience will help you apply your academic knowledge and develop essential skills. Start building practical knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
  • Obtaining a professional certification can enhance your credibility and job prospects in the field of accounting and is a requirement to progress in many accounting jobs. The most common certification for accountants in the United States is the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential, which is administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Other certifications include the Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and others, depending on your career goals and specialization.
  • Consider specializing in a particular area of accounting, such as tax accounting, forensic accounting, auditing, or managerial accounting, based on your interests and career goals. Specialization can help you stand out in the job market and advance your career.
Hear from someone who’s had the job or one like it
"Accounting can expose you to unique businesses. Learn about the busy season and what a CPA license can do for you."
Career Video Transcript
Examples of Current Open Payroll Specialist Positions
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Avg Pay: $51K
Jobs: 3,133
glassdoor
Avg Pay: NA
Jobs: 0

Education you need to become a Payroll Specialist

These are the most common degrees or certificates earned by Jobtrees users prior to becoming a Payroll Specialist

There may be other required degrees or certifications needed for this job. The below info shows you the most commonly desired education level from employers when hiring for this job.

  • Bachelor Degree in General Education
    The number of occurrences matches with Payroll Specialist in our database.
    Avg. Duration:48 monthsAvg. Fees:$12,528Type:Mostly full timeView more on Studyportals
  • Bachelor of Science (b.sc.) in Business
    The number of occurrences matches with Payroll Specialist in our database.
    Avg. Duration:47 monthsAvg. Fees:$31,360Type:Mostly full timeView more on Studyportals
  • Bachelor of Arts (b.a.) in Communication and Media Studies
    The number of occurrences matches with Payroll Specialist in our database.
    Avg. Duration:40 monthsAvg. Fees:$33,225Type:Mostly full timeView more on Studyportals
  • Bachelor Degree in Psychology
    The number of occurrences matches with Payroll Specialist in our database.
    Avg. Duration:48 monthsAvg. Fees:$31,580Type:Mostly full timeView more on Studyportals
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Annual Pay Estimate for Payroll Specialist and Other Important Info

See how many years Payroll Specialist's are in their job, how much they make, how long it took to get there and how available this job is in terms of open positions.

3.1 years
$51K
The average years of experience in the workforce prior to having this role
3.85 years
Entry
The average number of roles it took our users to get to this one
4
715 out of 4012

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Career Paths for Payroll Specialist

Find data driven insights on the path to get to this role and where it can lead

Jobs to start your career in becoming a Payroll Specialist

These are the most common roles Jobtrees users had to start their career that eventually lead them to Payroll Specialist. If you’re looking to get into this career these are jobs to consider to get your start. We’ve included below some current open job postings that match those roles. Click to search for more.