Build your career as a Payroll Clerk

accounting & finance

Payroll Clerk

Career growth as a Payroll Clerk (also known as a Payroll Officer) can lead to advanced roles such as Senior Payroll Clerk, Payroll Supervisor, or Payroll Manager, where responsibilities expand to overseeing payroll operations and ensuring compliance. With experience, Payroll Clerks can also transition into broader HR roles or other accounting and finance positions like Financial Analyst. For those with extensive experience, consulting roles in payroll and compliance are also viable options. Overall, the field offers clear paths for advancement through continuous learning and skill development.

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EMPLOYED 48,000
PART-TIME SHARE 36%
AVERAGE FULL-TIME HOURS 41
MEDIAN WEEKLY EARNINGS $1,548

A career as a Payroll Clerk (also known as a Payroll Officer) offers a stable entry into the accounting and finance sectors, with opportunities across various industries like finance, healthcare, and retail. Payroll Clerks ensure accurate payroll processing and compliance, often working full-time, though part-time and contract roles are available. The profession is predominantly female-dominated and provides valuable experience in financial management. The demand for these roles is strong, supported by the need for precise financial operations. With advancements in payroll systems and data analytics, Payroll Clerks can advance to higher positions in payroll management, HR, or accounting. Professional certifications will further enhance career growth and earning potential.

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What can you expect from working as a Payroll Clerk?

A payroll clerk is responsible for managing and processing employee payroll and related tasks. Key duties typically include:

  1. Processing Payroll: Calculating and processing employee wages, salaries, and overtime, and ensuring accurate and timely payroll disbursements.
  2. Maintaining Records: Keeping detailed records of employee hours, leave, and other relevant payroll information.
  3. Calculating Deductions: Handling deductions for taxes, social security, insurance, and other benefits.
  4. Handling Payroll Queries: Addressing employee questions and issues related to their pay, such as discrepancies or adjustments.
  5. Compliance: Ensuring payroll practices comply with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies.
  6. Preparing Reports: Generating payroll reports for management, including summaries of wages, taxes, and deductions.
  7. Updating Employee Information: Managing updates to employee records, including changes in salary, benefits, or personal details.
  8. Processing Benefits: Administering employee benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and other deductions.
  9. Assisting with Audits: Supporting internal or external audits by providing necessary payroll documentation and information.

How to become an Payroll Clerk or Payroll Officer?

There are numerous pathways available in your career as a Payroll Clerk (also known as a Payroll Officer), especially with the convenience of online courses in Australia. Beginning with a Certificate program can equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills. This foundational training can open doors to various roles within payroll and human resources. Online courses provide the flexibility to study at your own pace, enabling you to balance education with work or other commitments. Whether you're starting your career or seeking to enhance your skills, becoming a Payroll Clerk offers a solid entry point into the rewarding and essential field of payroll management.

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*The information on this page is sourced from the Jobs and Skills Australia website, based on their occupational data collected in May 2024. Where job titles may not be exact matches, related job areas have been used. This data is intended as a guide only.

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