Payroll and Benefits Clerk in New Hampshire Career Overview
In the role of a Payroll and Benefits Clerk, you play a key part in the financial and operational sectors of an organization. Your responsibilities include managing employee payroll, administering benefit programs, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Here are some key aspects of the role:
Payroll Processing: You oversee the preparation and distribution of employee salaries, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in payroll calculations. This includes tracking hours worked, managing overtime, and making necessary deductions.
Benefits Administration: You are responsible for the management of employee benefits programs, which may include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Your role ensures employees are informed about their benefits and helps facilitate enrollment and changes.
Record Maintenance: Keeping meticulous records is essential. You maintain detailed payroll records, tax documents, and employee benefits information, which aids in audits and provides vital data for organizational decision-making.
Compliance and Reporting: You ensure that payroll and benefits practices align with federal, state, and local regulations, including tax laws. You also prepare reports for management, providing insights into payroll expenses and benefits utilization.
Employee Support: In your position, you serve as a resource for employees, answering questions about payroll discrepancies, benefits coverage, and any related issues. Your direct interaction fosters a positive work environment and employee satisfaction.
The role of a Payroll and Benefits Clerk is foundational to the smooth functioning of an organization, influencing both employee welfare and organizational efficiency. Your expertise contributes to maintaining a motivated workforce, ultimately enhancing the overall productivity of the business.
Payroll and Benefits Clerk Salary in New Hampshire
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Payroll and Benefits Clerk in New Hampshire
To pursue a career as a Payroll and Benefits Clerk in New Hampshire, it's important to obtain the appropriate educational qualifications and training. Below are specific college degree programs that are beneficial for this role:
Accounting: This program provides foundational knowledge in financial principles, including payroll accounting and tax regulations, which are essential for managing employee compensation and benefits.
Accounting and Business Management: This dual-focused degree combines accounting with business management, equipping you with both financial and administrative skills necessary for effective payroll and benefits administration.
Business Administration and Management: A degree in this area covers various aspects of business operations, including human resources management, which is critical in handling employee benefits and payroll issues.
Business Operations Support and Secretarial Services: This program focuses on developing skills in office administration, including payroll processing, record-keeping, and administrative support functions relevant to payroll and benefits management.
Business Statistics: A background in statistics is valuable for analyzing payroll data and understanding compensation trends, thus enhancing your ability to support payroll and benefits decisions effectively.
While not strictly required, obtaining a degree from one of these programs can significantly enhance your qualifications and job prospects in the field of payroll and benefits administration.
Best Schools to become a Payroll and Benefits Clerk in New Hampshire 2024
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Southern New Hampshire University
Western Governors University
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Grand Canyon University
Liberty University
- Compile and record employee time and payroll data.
- May compute employees' time worked, production, and commission.
- May compute and post wages and deductions, or prepare paychecks.
Payroll and Benefits Clerk Required Skills and Competencies in New Hampshire
Attention to Detail: You must ensure accuracy in payroll calculations, benefits administration, and data entry to prevent errors that can affect employee compensation.
Numerical Proficiency: Strong mathematical skills are essential for calculating wages, deductions, and other payroll-related figures.
Organizational Skills: You should be able to manage multiple tasks, maintain accurate records, and prioritize workloads effectively to meet deadlines.
Communication Skills: Clear verbal and written communication is necessary for explaining payroll processes and addressing employee inquiries regarding benefits.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in payroll software and spreadsheet applications is required for efficient data handling and reporting.
Analytical Skills: You need the ability to analyze payroll data, identify discrepancies, and implement solutions to maintain payroll integrity.
Problem-Solving Skills: You should be capable of addressing and resolving payroll issues promptly to ensure employee satisfaction.
Interpersonal Skills: Building positive relationships with employees and collaborating with other departments is important for effective communication and workflow.
Confidentiality: You must handle sensitive information discreetly and maintain employee privacy in compliance with regulations.
Knowledge of Regulations: Familiarity with federal and state payroll laws, tax regulations, and labor laws is essential to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues.
Job Duties for Payroll and Benefits Clerks
Compute wages and deductions, and enter data into computers.
Process and issue employee paychecks and statements of earnings and deductions.
Verify attendance, hours worked, and pay adjustments, and post information onto designated records.
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Oracle PeopleSoft
- Workday software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Time accounting software
- Kronos Workforce Payroll
- Kronos Workforce Timekeeper
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Reading work related information
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Payroll and Benefits Clerk in New Hampshire
The job market for Payroll and Benefits Clerks in New Hampshire is currently experiencing a steady demand, driven by a growing emphasis on employee well-being and accurate payroll processing across various sectors. This role is becoming increasingly important as organizations strive to maintain compliance with labor laws and enhance employee satisfaction.
Demand: There is a consistent demand for Payroll and Benefits Clerks, especially as companies expand their workforce or adapt to changes in regulations. Many organizations recognize the need for dedicated personnel to manage payroll functions efficiently, ensuring timely and accurate pay for employees.
Growth Potential: The growth potential for this career path is notable. As businesses evolve and expand, the complexity of payroll and benefits administration increases. This complexity creates opportunities for experienced clerks to move into supervisory or managerial roles. Additionally, advancements in technology may require ongoing training and adaptation, which can lead to career advancement.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Manchester: As the largest city in New Hampshire, Manchester hosts a variety of businesses, from retail to healthcare, increasing the demand for payroll and benefits professionals.
- Nashua: Nashua’s proximity to Massachusetts offers a diverse job market, with many companies seeking qualified clerks to handle payroll and benefits as they scale.
- Concord: As the state capital, Concord provides opportunities in government and public sector organizations, which often require skilled payroll staff to manage employee compensation and benefits.
- Portsmouth: The growing economy in Portsmouth, driven by both tourism and local businesses, contributes to a need for payroll and benefits clerks in various industries.
The overall outlook for Payroll and Benefits Clerks in New Hampshire indicates a supportive environment for those looking to enter or advance in this field. As you explore opportunities, consider the diverse range of industries that require payroll expertise, allowing you to find a role that aligns with your interests and career goals.
Top Related Careers to Payroll and Benefits Clerk 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Payroll and Benefits Clerk in New Hampshire
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Provides comprehensive data about job outlook, salary information, and industry trends for payroll and benefits clerks.
Visit BLSAmerican Payroll Association (APA)
A leading organization offering payroll training, certification, and resources on best practices in payroll management.
Visit APANational Association of Professional Employers Organizations (NAPEO)
Offers resources for those interested in the professional employer organization industry, including benefits administration.
Visit NAPEOSociety for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
Provides articles, research, and resources on human resources, including payroll and benefits administration.
Visit SHRMPayroll.org
A portal dedicated to payroll education, research, and resources for payroll professionals.
Visit Payroll.orgNational Institute of Health Care Management (NIHCM)
Focuses on benefits administration, particularly in the healthcare sector. Offers reports and articles on healthcare benefits.
Visit NIHCMHuman Capital Institute (HCI)
A resource for research and education on talent management, including compensation and benefits strategies.
Visit HCILocal Colleges and Universities
Consider reaching out to institutions in New Hampshire offering courses in business administration, accounting, or human resources for additional educational resources. Examples include:- University of New Hampshire
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester Community College
LinkedIn Learning
Features courses focused on payroll management, benefits administration, and human resource skills that are relevant to your career development.
Visit LinkedIn LearningBooks on Payroll and Benefits Management
Look for titles such as:- "Payroll Accounting" by Bernard J. McHugh
- "The Complete Guide to Payroll Management" by John E. Janes
You can find these at your local library or on online bookstores.
Utilizing these resources will enhance your knowledge and skills, aiding your career progression as a Payroll and Benefits Clerk in New Hampshire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Payroll and Benefits Clerk in New Hampshire
What are the primary responsibilities of a Payroll and Benefits Clerk?
As a Payroll and Benefits Clerk, you will handle the processing of employee payroll, ensuring accurate calculations and timely disbursement. You will also manage employee benefits programs, including health insurance and retirement plans, assist in updating benefits records, and address employee inquiries related to payroll and benefits.What qualifications do I need to become a Payroll and Benefits Clerk?
Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required, though an associate’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field can be beneficial. Familiarity with payroll software and Microsoft Office applications is often necessary, along with a strong attention to detail and good organizational skills.Is certification important for a Payroll and Benefits Clerk?
Certification can enhance your credibility and job prospects. Consider obtaining a certification, such as the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or the Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC), which can demonstrate your expertise in payroll processes.What skills are essential for success in this role?
Key skills include:- Proficiency in payroll software and data entry
- Strong mathematical and analytical skills
- Excellent communication skills for addressing employee inquiries
- Knowledge of federal and state payroll regulations
- Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in payroll processing
What is the typical salary range for a Payroll and Benefits Clerk in New Hampshire?
Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and organization size, but generally, the salary for a Payroll and Benefits Clerk in New Hampshire ranges from approximately $35,000 to $60,000 per year.What advancement opportunities are available for Payroll and Benefits Clerks?
Advancement opportunities may include roles such as Payroll Manager, Human Resources Generalist, or HR Manager. Gaining additional certifications and experience can facilitate upward mobility in the field.What is the job outlook for Payroll and Benefits Clerks in New Hampshire?
The job outlook for Payroll and Benefits Clerks is generally positive, as businesses of all sizes require payroll administration and benefits management. The demand for skilled professionals is expected to remain steady as companies continue to expand.What software should I be familiar with as a Payroll and Benefits Clerk?
Familiarity with payroll software such as ADP, Paychex, or QuickBooks is important. Additionally, knowledge of Microsoft Excel is essential for tracking and analyzing payroll data.How can I improve my chances of being hired for this position?
Gain relevant experience through internships or entry-level positions in accounting or human resources. Networking within professional organizations and obtaining certifications can also boost your employability.What are the typical working hours for a Payroll and Benefits Clerk?
Most Payroll and Benefits Clerks work full-time, during standard business hours. However, some employers may require additional hours during peak payroll processing times, such as month-end or quarter-end.