Payroll Clerk

Position Summary:
The Payroll Clerk is responsible for processing all dealership payroll functions accurately and in compliance with company policies, state and federal regulations, and internal timelines. This role ensures timely calculation and distribution of employee pay, including commissions, bonuses, and deductions. The position also supports reporting, reconciliations, and cross-departmental coordination with accounting and HR.

Key Responsibilities:

• Accurately process weekly and bi-weekly payroll for all dealership employees, including hourly, salaried, flat-rate technicians and commission-based staff
• Calculate and enter commissions, bonuses, spiffs, and other performance-based earnings
• Assist in maintaining and updating payroll records including new hires, terminations, wage adjustments, and direct deposit changes
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws
• Review payroll data for errors or discrepancies and resolve issues prior to payroll submission
• Submit payroll taxes and deductions accurately and on schedule
• Coordinate with HR for benefits deductions, leave reporting, and employee status changes
• Reconcile payroll accounts and prepare payroll-related journal entries for accounting
• Generate and distribute reports related to payroll, employee hours, earnings, and deductions
• Maintain confidentiality of all employee and company payroll records
• Respond to employee questions regarding payroll, tax forms, and time reporting
• Support month-end close and annual audits as related to payroll
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of accounting and dealership operations

Qualifications & Experience

• Prior payroll experience required; automotive payroll experience strongly preferred
• Familiarity with dealership management systems (DMS) is an advantage
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment
• Excellent communication skills and a proactive, team-oriented attitude
• Willingness to learn and assist across departments
• Must pass pre-employment background check, Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, and drug screening

Work Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Office-based position in a fast-paced dealership environment with frequent interdepartmental interactions
• Standard business hours with occasional overtime during month-end or reporting cycles
• Primarily sedentary work with prolonged sitting and computer use
• Manual dexterity for data entry and office equipment
• Occasionally required to lift or move office supplies or records weighing up to 25 lbs

Technology & Tools

• Dealership Management Software (Automate)
• Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word)
• Office equipment: phones, scanners, copiers

Compliance and Confidentiality Statement

• This role requires a high level of discretion and confidentiality in handling customer financial information, dealership records, and employee data