Payroll Associate

Remote from: USA
Annual salary: Undisclosed
Salary information is not provided for this position. Check our Salary Directory to estimate the average compensation for similar roles.
Department: Finance & Accounting
Employment type: Full Time,
Job posted: 10 Jun 2026
Apply before: 10 Jul 2026
Experience level: Midweight
Views / Applies: 13 / 3

We provide a comprehensive and flexible range of services to our clients, specialising in audit, accountancy, advisory, tax and legal services.

Accounting
1923

AI Summary

This Payroll Associate position at Forvis Mazars, LLP supports the payroll tax function, ensuring accurate and timely processing of payroll and compliance with regulations. The role involves maintaining payroll systems, reconciling taxes, and addressing employee inquiries. Candidates need 1-3 years of experience, with a preference for a bachelor's degree and 3-5 years of experience. The position is remote and full-time, requiring strong communication and organizational skills in a fast-paced environment. Confidentiality and proficiency in payroll software like Workday are essential.

Role DNA

Job Complexity

Easy Hard

Pace & Pressure

Relaxed Fast-paced

Autonomy Level

Guided Full Ownership

Communication Load

Independent Highly Collaborative

AI Insight The role is entry-level with support duties and clear guidelines, making it moderately easy for someone with basic payroll experience.

Salary Analysis

AI Insight The job posting does not specify a salary, but for a Payroll Associate with 1-3 years experience, the market median is around $50,000 per year. The typical range in the US is $35,000 to $65,000, depending on location and experience. This role offers a competitive compensation package aligned with industry standards.

Key Skills

Payroll Processing Tax Compliance Workday Microsoft Excel Attention to Detail Confidentiality Communication Time Management Problem Solving Team Collaboration

Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Payroll Associate position at Forvis Mazars, LLP. With over three years of experience in payroll processing and tax compliance, I have developed a keen attention to detail and a strong understanding of federal, state, and local payroll laws. My proficiency in Workday and Microsoft Excel allows me to handle complex payroll data with accuracy.

In my previous role, I successfully managed payroll for over 500 employees, ensuring timely and error-free transactions. I am adept at reconciling taxes, preparing reports, and collaborating with finance to maintain general ledger accuracy. I thrive in fast-paced environments and am committed to maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.

I am drawn to Forvis Mazars' commitment to creating extraordinary experiences and would be honored to contribute to your team. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Possible Interview Questions

Can you describe your experience with payroll tax reconciliation and how you ensure accuracy?

In my previous role, I reconciled payroll taxes monthly by comparing tax liabilities to payments. I used a checklist to verify tax rates and deadlines, and I cross-referenced data with general ledger entries. When discrepancies arose, I investigated using payroll reports and corrected errors promptly.

How do you handle confidential payroll information?

I understand that confidentiality is critical. I ensure that payroll data is stored securely, only shared on a need-to-know basis, and discussed in private settings. I follow company policies and use encrypted systems when transmitting sensitive information.

Describe a time you identified and resolved a payroll error. What steps did you take?

Once, an employee's garnishment was miscalculated. I noticed the discrepancy during a final review. I traced the error back to an incorrect entry in the system, recalculated the amount, and processed an adjustment. I then verified with the employee and updated my notes to prevent recurrence.

How do you prioritize tasks in a fast-paced payroll environment with strict deadlines?

I use a priority matrix to categorize tasks by urgency and importance. I set aside dedicated time for processing payroll runs early in the cycle to avoid last-minute rushes. I communicate with my team to ensure coverage for critical issues and maintain a daily to-do list.

What payroll software are you proficient in, and how do you adapt to new systems?

I am proficient in Workday and ADP. I adapt by reviewing user guides, attending training sessions, and practicing in a sandbox environment. I also reach out to experienced colleagues for tips and document new processes for future reference.

General information

Name

Payroll Associate

Posting Title

Payroll Associate

Ref #

2236775

Date Published

Monday, May 11, 2026

Close Date

07/14/2026

Job Category

Internal Firm Services

Advertised Location

US-Remote

Working time

Full Time

Description & Requirements

The Payroll Associate supports the payroll tax function, ensuring pay and payroll taxes are processed on time, accurately, and in compliance with government regulations.

In collaboration with others, the Payroll Associate ensures accurate payroll processing and payroll taxes and thorough validation of payroll data for the firm. The ideal candidate will be experienced, well-organized, detail-oriented, flexible, and possess excellent time management skills.

Requirements of this position include the ability to interact with all levels of staff in a fast-paced environment, under pressure, while remaining flexible, proactive, resourceful, and efficient, with a high level of professionalism. Confidentiality is crucial to this role. Advanced written and verbal communication skills, critical thinking, and the ability to make sound decisions are equally important.

The Payroll Associate is responsible for reporting all matters of significance promptly to the Payroll Tax Lead or the Payroll Manager and keeps them informed of the day to day activities of the department.

What You Will Do:

Support maintenance and review of payroll tax processing and accounting systems to ensure timely and accurate processing of payroll transactions including salaries, benefits, garnishments, taxes, and other deductions.
Ensure accurate and timely processing of payroll updates including new hires, terminations, and changes to pay rates, and tax locations.
Support reconciliation of taxes.
Prepare periodic reports.
Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports of payroll tax transactions.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll, wage, tax, and hour laws and best practices.
Support the internal and external audit processes as required.
Identify and recommend updates to payroll accounting software, systems, and procedures.
Collaborate with finance on general ledger for accuracy and any necessary adjustments.
Address payroll questions and issues from employees and partners, timely and accurately.
As needed, make adjustments, generate W2C’s, process supplemental payroll runs, and process reversals

Minimum Qualifications:

1-3 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in a related field
3-5 years of related experience
Knowledge of payroll functions including preparation, balancing, internal control, and payroll taxes.
Experience with and specialized knowledge of US payroll.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Microsoft Excel, or related software.
Proficient with Payroll software, with Workday Payroll software proficiency

#LI-CW1

About Forvis Mazars, LLP

Forvis Mazars, LLP is an independent member of Forvis Mazars Global, a leading global professional services network. Ranked among the largest public accounting firms in the United States, our 7,000+ team members deliver assurance, tax, and consulting services to clients in all 50 states and internationally.

With a legacy spanning more than 100 years, we’re building something different. We are guided by a shared promise: Together, we create extraordinary experiences. That means delivering an Unmatched Client Experience® while creating a workplace where relationships matter, learning fuels growth, and every person feels valued and supported to thrive.

What We Offer

Our robust total rewards program and flexible work environment reflect our commitment to people, careers, and well-being—empowering our team to grow and thrive while delivering exceptional service. To explore what makes working at Forvis Mazars special, visit www.forvismazars.us/careers.

Legal Notice

Forvis Mazars, LLP is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer in accordance with applicable law. Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity, or other protected classifications.

It is Forvis Mazars, LLP standard policy not to accept unsolicited referrals or resumes from any source other than directly from candidates.

Forvis Mazars, LLP expressly reserves the right not to consider any unsolicited referrals, resumes or CVs from vendors including and without limitation, search firms, staffing agencies, fee-based referral services, and recruiting agencies.

Forvis Mazars, LLP further reserves the right not to pay a fee to a recruiter or recruiting agency unless such recruiter or recruiting agency has a signed vendor agreement with Forvis Mazars, LLP. Any resume(s) or CV(s) submitted to anyone working for Forvis Mazars, LLP, or submitted to a Forvis Mazars, LLP general email, without having a Forvis Mazars, LLP vendor agreement in place, will be considered the property of Forvis Mazars, LLP.

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