Payroll Specialist Job Description Template

The Payroll Specialist will be responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll for all employees. This includes maintaining employee records, calculating wages, preparing paychecks, and withholding taxes and other deductions. The Payroll Specialist will also resolve any payroll discrepancies and answer employee questions regarding their pay.

Payroll Specialist Job Responsibilities

  • Maintain payroll information by collecting, calculating, and entering data
  • Update payroll records by entering changes in exemptions, insurance coverage, savings deductions, and job title and department/division transfers
  • Prepare reports by compiling summaries of earnings, taxes, deductions, leave, disability, and non-taxable wages
  • Determine payroll liabilities by calculating employee federal and state income and social security taxes and employer's social security, unemployment, and workers compensation payments
  • Resolve discrepancies by collecting and analyzing information
  • Provide payroll information by answering questions and requests

Objectives

  • Maintain accurate records of employee time worked, including hours, vacation, sick leave, and personal time.
  • Calculate payroll for all employees based on time worked and rates of pay.
  • Ensure that all withholdings are correctly calculated and deducted from employee paychecks.
  • Issue paychecks to employees on a timely basis.
  • Maintain confidentiality of employee records and information.

Payroll Specialist Job Skills & Qualifications Needed

  • The skills and qualifications needed for the role of Payroll Specialist vary depending on the company. However, most payroll specialists need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, and some type of experience with bookkeeping, accounting, or data entry. Many companies also prefer candidates who have some experience working with payroll software.