About the Payroll Clerk Role

Join Robert Half's esteemed client in Chicago Heights, Illinois, as a Payroll Clerk, where your expertise in payroll processing and benefits administration will drive operational excellence. This full-time position offers a unique opportunity to manage bi-weekly payroll cycles, ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, and support seamless benefits operations. With a focus on accuracy, detail, and collaboration, you'll play a pivotal role in maintaining precise employee records, handling union payroll, and facilitating direct deposits. Ideal for professionals passionate about payroll careers in Chicago Heights, IL, this role combines technical proficiency with interpersonal skills to support a dynamic team environment. Robert Half's proprietary AI software and specialized recruiters ensure top-tier matches for ambitious candidates seeking stable, rewarding payroll jobs.

Key Responsibilities

As a Payroll Clerk, your daily tasks will encompass a wide range of critical functions essential to payroll accuracy and compliance:

• Process bi-weekly payroll runs, meticulously maintaining employee records and preparing checks for distribution, with specialized handling of union payroll requirements.
• Oversee direct deposit transactions by transmitting data to banks and rigorously verifying all details for error-free execution.
• Calculate and verify a variety of payroll deductions, including federal and state taxes, retirement contributions, overtime pay, and other withholdings.
• Administer tax levies and wage garnishments, fostering clear communication with external legal entities, agencies, and courts to ensure proper execution.
• Prepare, file, and distribute essential payroll documents such as tax returns, W-2 forms, and year-end summaries, adhering to all deadlines.
• Reconcile withholding tax payments monthly and quarterly, guaranteeing full compliance with evolving payroll regulations.
• Collaborate closely with Human Resources, Finance, and other departments to implement staff changes, new hires, terminations, and contract terms seamlessly.
• Perform in-depth research and analysis to resolve complex payroll discrepancies and recommend process improvements for efficiency.
• Generate accurate quarterly, fiscal, and year-end payroll reports, providing actionable insights for leadership.
• Support contract negotiations by offering expert interpretation on payroll implications and related matters.

Required Qualifications

To excel in this Payroll Clerk position in Chicago Heights, IL, candidates should possess:

• 2+ years of hands-on experience in payroll processing, preferably with union environments and benefits administration.
• In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll laws, tax reporting, and compliance standards.
• Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., ADP, Paychex), Excel, and HRIS systems for data management.
• Exceptional attention to detail, analytical mindset, and problem-solving abilities to handle garnishments, levies, and reconciliations.
• Strong communication skills for interdepartmental coordination and external agency interactions.
• Familiarity with contract implementation, staff change processing, and payroll reporting.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or a related field is highly preferred.
• Ability to thrive in a flexible, hybrid work setting with minimal on-site requirements.

This role demands a proactive, detail-oriented professional ready to contribute to payroll excellence.

Why Join Us?

At Robert Half, we connect top talent with exceptional opportunities like this Payroll Clerk role, offering not just a job, but a career launchpad. Enjoy a competitive salary range of $65,000 to $80,000 annually, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, and an outstanding PTO package featuring 20 vacation days plus sick leave. The flexible schedule—requiring only 4 on-site days every two weeks—supports work-life balance in vibrant Chicago Heights, Illinois. Benefit from our AI-driven recruiting expertise, collaborative culture, and growth potential in payroll management. Searching for payroll clerk jobs near Chicago Heights, IL? Apply now and elevate your career with Robert Half. Our team specializes in finance and accounting placements, ensuring you find the perfect fit faster. Don't miss this chance for stable employment, professional development, and rewarding benefits in a supportive environment. (Word count: 812)