Payroll and Benefits Clerk in Pennsylvania Career Overview
As a Payroll and Benefits Clerk, you play a vital role in the financial operations of an organization. Your primary responsibilities revolve around managing employee compensation and benefits administration, ensuring that all processes are executed accurately and timely. Here are some key aspects of your role:
Payroll Processing: You handle the preparation and processing of payroll, which includes calculating hours worked, determining wage adjustments, and ensuring compliance with federal and state laws regarding employee compensation.
Benefits Administration: Your responsibilities extend to administering employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. You help employees understand their benefits options and assist with enrollment and changes.
Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate records is essential in your position. You manage confidential employee information, ensuring that payroll data and benefits documentation are up-to-date and securely stored.
Compliance: You ensure that payroll and benefits practices comply with legal regulations. Staying current with labor laws and changes in tax codes is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure fair treatment of employees.
Communication: You often serve as a liaison between employees and management, addressing any payroll or benefits-related inquiries. Your ability to communicate complex information in an understandable manner is important for fostering trust and clarity.
Reporting: Generating regular reports on payroll expenditures and benefits usage is another key part of your role. This information aids in budgeting and financial planning for your organization.
In this role, your attention to detail and commitment to accuracy have significant implications for employee satisfaction and the overall financial health of the company. By effectively managing payroll and benefits, you contribute to a positive work environment and help support the overall productivity of the organization.
Payroll and Benefits Clerk Salary in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania
To pursue a career as a Payroll and Benefits Clerk in Pennsylvania, obtaining specific educational qualifications and training is essential. Consider the following degree programs:
Accounting: A degree in accounting provides you with the foundational knowledge of financial principles, including bookkeeping, budgeting, and the preparation of financial statements. These skills are directly applicable to payroll processing and managing employee benefits.
Accounting and Business Management: This program combines accounting practices with broader business management principles. You will gain insights into organizational dynamics and how financial management integrates with payroll and benefits administration.
Business Administration and Management: Earning a degree in business administration equips you with versatile skills that cover various aspects of business operations, including human resources and financial management, both vital for a role in payroll and benefits.
Business Operations Support and Secretarial Services: This degree focuses on the administrative and operational aspects of business environments. It prepares you for managing records, documentation, and communication, essential tasks in payroll and benefits roles.
Business Statistics: This program emphasizes data analysis and interpretation, which are crucial for managing payroll data effectively. Understanding statistical concepts will aid in assessing employee payroll trends and benefits utilization.
Community colleges and universities in Pennsylvania offer these programs, and many also provide online learning options for flexibility. In addition to formal education, internships or entry-level positions in finance or administrative roles can provide practical experience that enhances your understanding of payroll and benefits processes.
Best Schools to become a Payroll and Benefits Clerk in Pennsylvania 2024
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Southern New Hampshire University
Western Governors University
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
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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 Pennsylvania
Attention to Detail
You must demonstrate a high level of accuracy when inputting and processing payroll data. Small mistakes can lead to substantial discrepancies, so being meticulous is essential.Organizational Skills
The ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously is important. You will often handle various payroll-related duties, deadlines, and paperwork, all of which require effective organization to ensure timely and accurate processing.Mathematical Proficiency
A strong foundation in basic mathematics is necessary for performing calculations related to pay rates, hours worked, deductions, and taxes. Comfort with numbers will greatly enhance your efficiency in the role.Technical Skills
Familiarity with payroll software and databases is vital. You should be adept at using various payroll systems and spreadsheets, as well as understanding how to troubleshoot common technical issues.Interpersonal Skills
You will interact with employees and management to address payroll inquiries and resolve issues. Strong interpersonal skills help you communicate clearly and build trust with colleagues.Problem-Solving Abilities
You should be able to identify discrepancies or issues within payroll and benefits, assess the situation, and implement solutions promptly to avoid disruption in pay processing.Confidentiality and Integrity
Handling sensitive employee information requires a commitment to confidentiality. You must respect the privacy of individuals while maintaining a high standard of ethical conduct.Regulatory Knowledge
Understanding relevant laws and regulations governing payroll and employee benefits is essential. You should stay informed about changes in labor laws, tax regulations, and benefits policies that impact payroll processes.Time Management
The ability to prioritize tasks effectively and meet deadlines is critical, especially during payroll runs or when handling benefits enrollments and adjustments. You must manage your time wisely to complete all responsibilities efficiently.
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 Pennsylvania
The job market for Payroll and Benefits Clerks in Pennsylvania is showing positive trends, reflecting the growing complexity of compensation and benefits management in the workplace. Here are key insights into the current landscape:
Demand for Payroll and Benefits Clerks: As businesses recruit and retain talent, the need for proficient Payroll and Benefits Clerks continues to rise. Organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of maintaining accurate payroll systems and competitive benefits packages, which fuels demand for skilled clerks.
Growth Potential: Employment opportunities in this field are expected to grow, driven by the expansion of small to medium-sized businesses and the ever-present need for proper financial administration. Clerks with experience in payroll software and benefits administration will likely find ample job openings as companies strive to enhance their HR functions.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Philadelphia: As a major metropolitan center, Philadelphia boasts a diverse array of companies from various industries, creating a stable job environment for Payroll and Benefits Clerks.
- Pittsburgh: With its ongoing economic revitalization and emphasis on healthcare, technology, and education sectors, Pittsburgh serves as another significant market for payroll professionals.
- Harrisburg and the Capital Region: The concentration of government jobs and associated administrative roles in Harrisburg contributes to a robust need for payroll and benefits expertise.
- Allentown and Lehigh Valley Area: This region has demonstrated growth in manufacturing and distribution, leading to the need for payroll specialists to manage employee compensation and benefits effectively.
Industry Sectors: Various sectors are actively seeking Payroll and Benefits Clerks, including:
- Healthcare: Due to the industry's complexity regarding employee benefits and varying payment structures.
- Education: Schools and universities often require specialized benefits administration to manage different employee classifications.
- Technology: As tech companies expand, they need payroll professionals to navigate competitive compensation packages for diverse job roles.
Staying aware of these trends and opportunities within Pennsylvania's job market can be beneficial as you pursue a career as a Payroll and Benefits Clerk.
Top Related Careers to Payroll and Benefits Clerk 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Payroll and Benefits Clerk in Pennsylvania
American Payroll Association (APA)
- A leading organization providing education, training, and resources for payroll professionals.
- Website: American Payroll Association
National Association of Federal Credit Unions (NAFCU)
- Offers resources related to payroll and benefits administration in the context of credit unions.
- Website: NAFCU
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
- A professional organization that provides guidelines and resources on HR practices, including payroll and benefits.
- Website: SHRM
U.S. Department of Labor - Wage and Hour Division
- Provides information on federal labor laws, including wage and hour pay requirements that payroll clerks must understand.
- Website: U.S. Department of Labor
National Payroll Reporting Consortium (NPRC)
- An entity focused on payroll compliance issues and advocacy at both federal and state levels.
- Website: NPRC
Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry
- Offers state-specific resources and regulations pertaining to wages, benefits, and labor laws.
- Website: PA Department of Labor & Industry
International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP)
- A resource for professionals working in employee benefits, providing education and research resources.
- Website: IFEBP
LinkedIn Learning
- Provides access to courses on payroll systems, accounting, and benefits administration.
- Website: LinkedIn Learning
Microsoft Excel Training
- Online resources to enhance your skills in Excel, a common tool used in payroll management.
- Website: Microsoft Excel Training
Google Career Certificates
- Offers online courses, including foundational business skills that can be beneficial for a career in payroll and benefits.
- Website: Google Career Certificates
Consider exploring these resources to deepen your understanding and enhance your skills as a Payroll and Benefits Clerk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Payroll and Benefits Clerk in Pennsylvania
What are the primary responsibilities of a Payroll and Benefits Clerk?
As a Payroll and Benefits Clerk, your main responsibilities include processing payroll, ensuring compliance with government regulations, managing employee benefits data, and assisting with inquiries related to payroll and benefits. You'll also be involved in maintaining accurate records and conducting audits.What qualifications do I need to become a Payroll and Benefits Clerk?
Typically, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, although many employers prefer candidates with an associate degree in accounting or a related field. Familiarity with payroll software and excellent attention to detail are essential qualities.What skills are important for a Payroll and Benefits Clerk?
Key skills include:- Strong mathematical and analytical abilities
- Proficiency in payroll software and Microsoft Excel
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills
- Strong communication skills for interacting with employees and management
Where can I find job openings for Payroll and Benefits Clerks in Pennsylvania?
Job openings can be found on various job search websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. Additionally, local job fairs and networking events can provide opportunities to connect with potential employers.What is the salary range for a Payroll and Benefits Clerk in Pennsylvania?
Salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the size of the company. Generally, the salary range is between $35,000 to $55,000 per year, with the possibility of earning higher wages in larger organizations.Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
Yes, there are opportunities for advancement. With experience, you can move into higher positions such as Payroll Manager, HR Manager, or Benefits Coordinator. Continuing education and professional certifications can enhance your chances for promotions.What certifications can enhance my career as a Payroll and Benefits Clerk?
Certifications such as the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) from the American Payroll Association can enhance your professional credibility and knowledge, making you a more competitive candidate.What software programs should I be familiar with?
You should be familiar with payroll processing software such as ADP, Paychex, and QuickBooks. Knowledge of HR management systems and spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel is also important to perform your job effectively.Can I work as a Payroll and Benefits Clerk remotely?
Many companies offer remote opportunities for Payroll and Benefits Clerks, especially as technology advances and more companies embrace flexible work arrangements. However, this can vary by employer, so it's best to check job listings for remote options.What are the typical working hours for this position?
Most Payroll and Benefits Clerks work full-time, which usually includes a standard 40-hour week. During payroll periods, you may have to work additional hours to ensure deadlines are met. Flexibility with hours can sometimes be required, especially around payroll processing days.