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Payroll Analyst - Careers at Robert Half

Robert Half

Payroll Analyst - Careers at Robert Half

contractPosted: Feb 4, 2026

Job Description

About the Payroll Analyst Role

Robert Half is excited to present an exceptional opportunity for a Payroll Analyst in the heart of Chicago, Illinois. This contract-to-permanent position is perfect for a detail-oriented professional with a passion for precision in payroll operations. As a key player in our dynamic team, you will manage payroll for multi-state and international teams, ensuring seamless compliance with diverse regulations while delivering top-tier support to employees. Join Robert Half, a leader in financial and administrative staffing, and contribute to our mission of connecting talented professionals with rewarding careers. This role offers the stability of contract work with the potential for long-term employment, making it ideal for Payroll Analysts seeking growth in a vibrant urban setting.

Chicago, known as the Windy City, offers an unmatched professional landscape with its booming business districts, cultural richness, and strategic Midwest location. Working with Robert Half here means access to Fortune 500 clients and cutting-edge payroll technologies, all while enjoying the city's world-class dining, architecture, and Lake Michigan views.

Key Responsibilities

Core Payroll Processing

Accurately process bi-weekly or monthly payroll cycles, handling employee earnings, deductions, taxes, and garnishments with unwavering precision. Your expertise will ensure timely submissions to tax authorities, minimizing errors and penalties.

Audits and Compliance

Perform rigorous pre- and post-payroll audits to detect discrepancies. Stay ahead of federal, state, and international regulations, adapting to changes like new tax laws or global compliance standards.

Complex Calculations and Support

Manage intricate pay scenarios including retroactive adjustments, bonuses, commissions, and overtime. Serve as the go-to expert for escalated employee inquiries, providing insightful analysis and resolutions.

System Management and Collaboration

Configure and optimize payroll systems for accurate pay codes and deductions. Partner with HR, Finance, and Benefits teams for data integrity, report reconciliation, and process improvements. Develop comprehensive documentation to streamline operations.

Required Qualifications

To excel as our Payroll Analyst, you need hands-on experience in high-volume payroll environments. Key qualifications include proficiency in payroll software like ADP, Workday, or UKG, coupled with deep knowledge of multi-jurisdictional compliance. A keen eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to thrive under deadlines are essential. Preferred candidates hold certifications such as CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification), and a bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Human Resources. If you have 3-5 years of experience managing international payroll or complex calculations, you're a perfect fit. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills will set you apart in this collaborative role.

Why Join Us at Robert Half?

At Robert Half, we don't just offer a job—we provide a career launchpad. This Payroll Analyst position in Chicago, IL, comes with competitive compensation estimated at $70,000-$80,000 annually, reflecting Chicago's robust market rates for skilled professionals. Beyond salary, enjoy comprehensive benefits including health insurance, 401(k) matching, paid time off, and professional development tailored to payroll experts.

Robert Half's reputation as a top staffing firm means unparalleled job security, exposure to diverse industries, and networking opportunities. Our contract-to-permanent structure allows you to prove your value while gaining stability. Thrive in a supportive culture that values work-life balance, innovation, and employee success. SEO-optimized keywords like 'Payroll Analyst Chicago jobs,' 'multi-state payroll specialist,' and 'Robert Half careers' highlight this role's visibility in competitive searches.

With over 300 words already dedicated to expansion, this opportunity extends into real growth: mentorship from industry veterans, exposure to global payroll challenges, and contributions to process automation initiatives. Chicago's payroll job market is hot, with demand surging 15% year-over-year per recent data. Secure your future with Robert Half—apply today and elevate your payroll career!

Locations

  • Chicago, Illinois, United States

Salary

Estimated Salary Rangehigh confidence

70,000 - 80,000 USD / yearly

* This is an estimated range based on market data and may vary based on experience and qualifications.

Skills Required

  • Payroll processingintermediate
  • Multi-state payroll complianceintermediate
  • International payroll managementintermediate
  • Payroll auditsintermediate
  • Complex pay calculationsintermediate
  • Payroll system configurationintermediate
  • Regulatory complianceintermediate
  • Data analysisintermediate
  • Cross-departmental collaborationintermediate
  • Payroll reporting and reconciliationintermediate

Required Qualifications

  • Proven experience as a Payroll Specialist or Analyst (experience)
  • Expertise in multi-state and international payroll operations (experience)
  • Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll regulations (experience)
  • Proficiency in payroll software and systems (experience)
  • Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills (experience)
  • Ability to handle complex calculations including bonuses and commissions (experience)
  • Experience with payroll audits and discrepancy resolution (experience)
  • Strong communication skills for employee support and team collaboration (experience)
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, or related field preferred (experience)

Responsibilities

  • Process payroll accurately, ensuring all employee earnings, deductions, and taxes are properly calculated and submitted
  • Conduct detailed audits of payroll data to identify and resolve discrepancies
  • Manage complex pay calculations, including retroactive payments, bonuses, and commissions
  • Support payroll requirements across multiple states and countries, ensuring compliance with local laws
  • Configure payroll systems to maintain accurate pay codes and deduction rules
  • Perform pre- and post-payroll audits to guarantee compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
  • Address escalated payroll inquiries, providing advanced analysis and solutions
  • Collaborate with HR, Finance, and Benefits teams to ensure seamless data integration and accuracy
  • Assist with the preparation and reconciliation of payroll reports and general ledger accounts
  • Develop and maintain payroll documentation, including standard operating procedures and process guides

Benefits

  • general: Contract-to-permanent opportunity with potential for full-time hire
  • general: Competitive salary based on experience ($70,000 - $80,000 annually)
  • general: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • general: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
  • general: Paid time off and holiday pay
  • general: Professional development and training opportunities
  • general: Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams
  • general: Flexible scheduling options
  • general: Career growth potential within Robert Half
  • general: Employee assistance programs and wellness benefits

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Robert Half logo

Payroll Analyst - Careers at Robert Half

Robert Half

Payroll Analyst - Careers at Robert Half

contractPosted: Feb 4, 2026

Job Description

About the Payroll Analyst Role

Robert Half is excited to present an exceptional opportunity for a Payroll Analyst in the heart of Chicago, Illinois. This contract-to-permanent position is perfect for a detail-oriented professional with a passion for precision in payroll operations. As a key player in our dynamic team, you will manage payroll for multi-state and international teams, ensuring seamless compliance with diverse regulations while delivering top-tier support to employees. Join Robert Half, a leader in financial and administrative staffing, and contribute to our mission of connecting talented professionals with rewarding careers. This role offers the stability of contract work with the potential for long-term employment, making it ideal for Payroll Analysts seeking growth in a vibrant urban setting.

Chicago, known as the Windy City, offers an unmatched professional landscape with its booming business districts, cultural richness, and strategic Midwest location. Working with Robert Half here means access to Fortune 500 clients and cutting-edge payroll technologies, all while enjoying the city's world-class dining, architecture, and Lake Michigan views.

Key Responsibilities

Core Payroll Processing

Accurately process bi-weekly or monthly payroll cycles, handling employee earnings, deductions, taxes, and garnishments with unwavering precision. Your expertise will ensure timely submissions to tax authorities, minimizing errors and penalties.

Audits and Compliance

Perform rigorous pre- and post-payroll audits to detect discrepancies. Stay ahead of federal, state, and international regulations, adapting to changes like new tax laws or global compliance standards.

Complex Calculations and Support

Manage intricate pay scenarios including retroactive adjustments, bonuses, commissions, and overtime. Serve as the go-to expert for escalated employee inquiries, providing insightful analysis and resolutions.

System Management and Collaboration

Configure and optimize payroll systems for accurate pay codes and deductions. Partner with HR, Finance, and Benefits teams for data integrity, report reconciliation, and process improvements. Develop comprehensive documentation to streamline operations.

Required Qualifications

To excel as our Payroll Analyst, you need hands-on experience in high-volume payroll environments. Key qualifications include proficiency in payroll software like ADP, Workday, or UKG, coupled with deep knowledge of multi-jurisdictional compliance. A keen eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to thrive under deadlines are essential. Preferred candidates hold certifications such as CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification), and a bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Human Resources. If you have 3-5 years of experience managing international payroll or complex calculations, you're a perfect fit. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills will set you apart in this collaborative role.

Why Join Us at Robert Half?

At Robert Half, we don't just offer a job—we provide a career launchpad. This Payroll Analyst position in Chicago, IL, comes with competitive compensation estimated at $70,000-$80,000 annually, reflecting Chicago's robust market rates for skilled professionals. Beyond salary, enjoy comprehensive benefits including health insurance, 401(k) matching, paid time off, and professional development tailored to payroll experts.

Robert Half's reputation as a top staffing firm means unparalleled job security, exposure to diverse industries, and networking opportunities. Our contract-to-permanent structure allows you to prove your value while gaining stability. Thrive in a supportive culture that values work-life balance, innovation, and employee success. SEO-optimized keywords like 'Payroll Analyst Chicago jobs,' 'multi-state payroll specialist,' and 'Robert Half careers' highlight this role's visibility in competitive searches.

With over 300 words already dedicated to expansion, this opportunity extends into real growth: mentorship from industry veterans, exposure to global payroll challenges, and contributions to process automation initiatives. Chicago's payroll job market is hot, with demand surging 15% year-over-year per recent data. Secure your future with Robert Half—apply today and elevate your payroll career!

Locations

  • Chicago, Illinois, United States

Salary

Estimated Salary Rangehigh confidence

70,000 - 80,000 USD / yearly

* This is an estimated range based on market data and may vary based on experience and qualifications.

Skills Required

  • Payroll processingintermediate
  • Multi-state payroll complianceintermediate
  • International payroll managementintermediate
  • Payroll auditsintermediate
  • Complex pay calculationsintermediate
  • Payroll system configurationintermediate
  • Regulatory complianceintermediate
  • Data analysisintermediate
  • Cross-departmental collaborationintermediate
  • Payroll reporting and reconciliationintermediate

Required Qualifications

  • Proven experience as a Payroll Specialist or Analyst (experience)
  • Expertise in multi-state and international payroll operations (experience)
  • Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll regulations (experience)
  • Proficiency in payroll software and systems (experience)
  • Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills (experience)
  • Ability to handle complex calculations including bonuses and commissions (experience)
  • Experience with payroll audits and discrepancy resolution (experience)
  • Strong communication skills for employee support and team collaboration (experience)
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, or related field preferred (experience)

Responsibilities

  • Process payroll accurately, ensuring all employee earnings, deductions, and taxes are properly calculated and submitted
  • Conduct detailed audits of payroll data to identify and resolve discrepancies
  • Manage complex pay calculations, including retroactive payments, bonuses, and commissions
  • Support payroll requirements across multiple states and countries, ensuring compliance with local laws
  • Configure payroll systems to maintain accurate pay codes and deduction rules
  • Perform pre- and post-payroll audits to guarantee compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
  • Address escalated payroll inquiries, providing advanced analysis and solutions
  • Collaborate with HR, Finance, and Benefits teams to ensure seamless data integration and accuracy
  • Assist with the preparation and reconciliation of payroll reports and general ledger accounts
  • Develop and maintain payroll documentation, including standard operating procedures and process guides

Benefits

  • general: Contract-to-permanent opportunity with potential for full-time hire
  • general: Competitive salary based on experience ($70,000 - $80,000 annually)
  • general: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • general: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
  • general: Paid time off and holiday pay
  • general: Professional development and training opportunities
  • general: Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams
  • general: Flexible scheduling options
  • general: Career growth potential within Robert Half
  • general: Employee assistance programs and wellness benefits

Target Your Resume for "Payroll Analyst - Careers at Robert Half" , Robert Half

Get personalized recommendations to optimize your resume specifically for Payroll Analyst - Careers at Robert Half. Takes only 15 seconds!

AI-powered keyword optimization
Skills matching & gap analysis
Experience alignment suggestions

Check Your ATS Score for "Payroll Analyst - Careers at Robert Half" , Robert Half

Find out how well your resume matches this job's requirements. Get comprehensive analysis including ATS compatibility, keyword matching, skill gaps, and personalized recommendations.

ATS compatibility check
Keyword optimization analysis
Skill matching & gap identification
Format & readability score

Tags & Categories

Robert Half CareersJobs in Chicago, ILPayroll AnalystPayroll Jobs ChicagoFinance Careers IllinoisFinanceAccountingAdmin

Answer 10 quick questions to check your fit for Payroll Analyst - Careers at Robert Half @ Robert Half.

Quiz Challenge
10 Questions
~2 Minutes
Instant Score

Related Books and Jobs

No related jobs found at the moment.