What Are the Payroll Administrator’s Responsibilities?

Posted by AOLCC | 22nd July 2025

If you’re considering a career in finance, payroll administration is a stable, in-demand path with clearly defined goals and room for growth. But what exactly do payroll administrator responsibilities involve?

This blog post breaks down what the job entails, the qualities needed to succeed, and how training through our accounting and payroll administrator program can prepare you for this essential role.

What Are the Roles and Responsibilities of a Payroll Administrator?

Their core duties include processing payroll, calculating wages, taxes, and deductions, preparing and distributing pay stubs, maintaining payroll records, and submitting payroll taxes. Their core duties include:

• Processing payroll for employees on a regular schedule (weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly)
  
  

• Calculating wages, taxes, and deductions, including overtime, benefits, bonuses, and holiday pay
  
  

• Preparing and distributing pay stubs
  
  

• Maintaining payroll records and ensuring they comply with employment and tax laws
  
  

• Submitting payroll taxes and reporting to government agencies
  
  

• Handling direct deposit arrangements and updates
  
  

• Resolving payroll discrepancies or questions from employees
  
  

• Collaborating with HR and accounting teams on matters like onboarding and benefits

These responsibilities require precision, consistency, and up-to-date knowledge of regulations, especially as payroll legislation can differ between provinces and evolve.

What is the Job Description of a Payroll Person?

In simple terms, a payroll administrator's job description centers on the management and execution of all activities related to employee compensation. But a good job description goes further by outlining not only tasks but also the expectations of the role.

Here's what a typical job posting might include:

• Perform end-to-end payroll processing for salaried and hourly employees
  
  

• Ensure compliance with provincial and federal payroll laws
  
  

• Process new hires, terminations, and pay adjustments
  
  

• Generate payroll reports for internal departments
  
  

• Respond to employee inquiries about pay and deductions
  
  

• Collaborate with HR on employee benefits and records
  
  

• Maintain strict confidentiality and data security

As a payroll administrator, you’re not just crunching numbers; you’re ensuring financial accuracy and maintaining trust within the organization. Wondering if this role is right for you? Check out this article, “Is Payroll Administrator the perfect career choice for you?” for full details of what the role entails. 

A payroll administrator's job description centers on the management

What Are the Characteristics of a Good Payroll Administrator?

A successful payroll administrator isn’t just technically proficient; they’re dependable, detail-focused, and trustworthy. If you’re thinking about this career path, here are a few key characteristics you’ll need:

• Accuracy: Even small payroll mistakes can have big consequences. An eye for detail is critical.
  
  

• Time management: Payroll must be processed on a strict schedule. You’ll need to prioritize tasks and stay on top of deadlines.
  
  

• Discretion: You’ll work with confidential employee and financial information every day. Integrity is a must.
  
  

• Problem-solving skills: When discrepancies arise, you need to investigate thoroughly and resolve issues quickly.
  
  

• Communication: Payroll questions come from employees, HR, and management. You’ll need to explain deductions, policies, and timelines clearly.
  
  

• Tech savvy: Comfort with spreadsheets, databases, and payroll software is essential for accuracy and efficiency.

Check out this blog post, “Top 4 Skills You Need To Succeed In Accounting!” for more information.

Our accounting and payroll administrator program equips students for success in this role

Start Your Career With the Right Training

At AOLCC BC, our Accounting and Payroll Administrator Program gives students the skills and experience to step into this important role with confidence. You’ll learn about:

• Payroll legislation and tax regulations
  
  

• Accounting fundamentals
  
  

• Payroll software (like Sage and QuickBooks)
  
  

• Income tax preparation
  
  

• Business communications

Plus, with practical training and career services, you’ll be ready to apply for entry-level payroll and accounting positions in companies across industries.

The role of a payroll administrator is more than just numbers. It’s about trust, accuracy, and keeping the financial rhythm of a company running smoothly. With the right training and mindset, it can be a fulfilling and long-lasting career.

Are you looking for a comprehensive Accounting and Payroll Administrator Program?

Contact AOLCC BC for more information. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Question: What are the roles and responsibilities of a payroll administrator?

Answer: Their core duties include processing payroll, calculating wages, taxes, and deductions, preparing and distributing pay stubs, maintaining payroll records, and submitting payroll taxes.

Question: What is the job description of a payroll person?

Answer: In simple terms, a payroll administrator's job description centers on the management and execution of all activities related to employee compensation.

Question: What are the characteristics of a good payroll administrator?

Answer: A successful payroll administrator isn’t just technically proficient; they’re dependable, detail-focused, and trustworthy.