Payroll Associate

Company: Robert Half
Location: Portsmouth
Posted on: February 18, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Payroll Associate to join our team. This role is ideal for recent graduates with 1 years of professional experience who are eager to learn and grow in payroll, HR, and accounting functions. You will play a key part in processing multi-state, high-volume payrolls (average of 3,000 employees/week), supporting benefits and reporting, and collaborating closely with accounting staff. This entry-level opportunity offers excellent training and the chance to evolve within HR and accounting. Key Responsibilities: Accurately process multiple payrolls on a daily, weekly, and biweekly schedule for approximately 3,000 employees per week, including union and multi-state payrolls Handle all types of employee pay: hourly, salary, and non-exempt, using ADP Workforce Now and Watson Time & Attendance systems Administer payroll-related activities such as benefits, garnishments, and insurance Calculate regular and overtime/shift differential pay according to federal and state guidelines Track and update employee vacation, sick time, leave of absences, FMLA records, and personnel files Conduct periodic audits to ensure data integrity and compliance Prepare and provide payroll data and reports as needed Collaborate with staff accountants to assist with posting and reconciliation (no direct work in general ledger) Utilize Excel to manage basic spreadsheets and support payroll data management; comprehensive Excel training provided by team experts Requirements: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent recent graduation 1 years of payroll, HR, or related experience preferred Experience with or exposure to ADP Workforce Now and time & attendance systems a plus Proficient with basic Excel functions; willingness to learn more advanced skills Strong data entry skills and attention to detail Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining accuracy Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, positive attitude Willingness to learn and take on new responsibilities in HR, accounting, and benefits functions Professionalism and reliability Why Join Us? Supportive team environment with hands-on training Opportunity to learn a range of HR and payroll processes and systems Career growth potential in HR, benefits, or accounting Be part of a dynamic team in a role with direct impact on a large employee base If you are organized, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and are ready to build your HR/payroll career, we encourage you to apply!

Keywords: Robert Half, Chesapeake , Payroll Associate, Accounting, Auditing , Portsmouth, Virginia