The following jobs outline entry-level payroll positions for the Payroll Essentials Learning Path. Their job descriptions will aid in determining which Learning Path best fits your needs.
Job Descriptions
Payroll Technician/Assistant
Performs a variety of routine office/clerical duties such as filing, coding, posting, and typing. May require keyboard skills and elementary knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, or database programs. Generally requires 6 months to 1 year of office experience. Does not require payroll or accounting knowledge. Works under close supervision.
Accounting Technician
Performs a variety of accounting clerical tasks involving the preparation and maintenance of financial and related records. Duties may include auditing and reconciling bank statements, clearing payroll accounts and maintaining payroll general ledger accounts, and remitting taxes, levies, and garnishments. This is generally an intermediate position requiring knowledge of accounting terminology and methods, standard office procedures, and 1 to 2 years of related experience.
Payroll Records/Benefits Administrator
Maintains payroll and related records recording the accumulation and use of vacations, holidays, sick days, and miscellaneous leaves of absence. May calculate deductions for group health, life, and disability insurance premiums and communicate to employees and payroll staff. May prepare premium reports and communicate with insurance carriers and other program vendors. May administer a variety of voluntary deductions such as United Way contributions, U.S. government bond purchases, and stock purchase plans. May administer pension benefits, retirement programs, 401(k) plan contributions and disbursements, and contributions to various thrift plans. This is the most senior position in which the primary responsibility is payroll-related leave and benefit records administration. Generally requires 2 to 4 years of related experience. May require a related degree or equivalent technical training. FPC or CPP designation preferred.
Data Processing/Entry Operator
Uses computer terminal to input payroll data. Deciphers, translates, and codes complex alpha numeric payroll data and verifies input for accuracy and completeness. Does not require knowledge of payroll processing. Generally requires 1 to 2 years of related data entry experience.
Lead Operator
In addition to coding complex alpha numeric payroll data and verifying data input, may direct the work of subordinate or less experienced operators. Follows standard procedures to balance and control payroll system input and output. May set up coding procedures or format source documents for coding. Generally requires 2 to 3 years of related experience.
Increase your knowledge with core competency education:
Understand payroll trends
Stay abreast of the latest compliance and industry trends by taking advantage of compliance education.
Complete your learning path through certification
Attaining the Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) verifies fundamental payroll knowledge, skills, and abilities and is a career credential widely recognized by the payroll industry.
Continue your professional development
Attending conferences is a great way to earn continuing education credit toward recertification, meet other payroll professionals, and stay up-to-date with the latest in payroll industry trends, compliance, and hot topics.