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.
Payroll Administrator Job Description, Duties, and Responsibilities.
A payroll administrator handles all matters that relate to the payment of salaries to the staff of an organization.
As such, a payroll administrator is the first point of call for an employee in relation to the time of resumption, attendance, and payroll.
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.
A payroll administrator will provide support to other financial personnel in an organization such as the accounting and reporting department.
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.
Don’t be afraid to take a unique path to your goal.
Strong Maths and Numeracy Skills.
Possessing Professional Experience.
Communication Skills & Confidence.
Customer Service and Etiquette Skills.
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?
You will be responsible for creating, updating and maintaining accurate payroll systems records and handle payroll related enquires.
You will help administer overall payroll production and ensures the timely and accurate delivery of payroll and related services.
If you are have strong Payroll experience and enjoy working in a professional, fun environment, then this opportunity could be for you….
Processing changes in employees’ employment lifecycle (new hire, transfer, termination, time & attendance, benefits, payroll).
Working knowledge in area of labor law, exceptions/special situation in Dutch payroll, taxation and social security.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The payroll process involves a lot of moving parts and, by necessity, an element of human unpredictability.
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 $57,472 to $72,985. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
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Average salary for Payroll Administrator jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Payroll Administrator jobs, and apply.
Looking for Payroll Administrator jobs?
Here are some Payroll Administrator jobs in the United States.