A payroll supervisor must possess the ability to manage a staff and have the skills of an accountant with detailed knowledge of payroll operations. If you have an interest in accounting, taxes, and general business finance and you want to help people get their paychecks on time, then you may have what it takes to become a payroll supervisor. Most employers will require at least some post-secondary education in order to work in this position, and a basic knowledge of accounting and payroll practices is also necessary. Through their education and training to become a payroll supervisor, they must learn to use the many computerized clerical and record keeping systems needed to process payroll transactions, create reports, and prepare proper tax documents.
The educational requirements needed to become a payroll supervisor may vary for each employer. Some will require a bachelor's degree in accounting or other related field, others may only require an associate's degree, while still others may accept a simple high school diploma with an emphasis on business or accounting coursework. Many employers will provide additional on-the-job training based on the specific needs of their accounting or payroll departments. Some people who have a desire to become a payroll supervisor may start out as a payroll clerk and move up through the ranks within a company or organization. Some employers may require various types of certification, so be sure to check the employment requirements of each individual company or organization.
Knowledge of the principles and practices regarding payroll preparation and all relevant reports or records are the basic foundation of this position. Supervisory skills are needed to manage a team of records clerks, payroll clerks, and staff accountants. Those who wish to become a payroll supervisor must know how to handle oversight of all payroll processes, sometimes for many different departments within a company. Payroll supervisors must know how to develop and implement payroll policies and procedures. They must also ensure the accurate recording and filing of all payroll reports as well as the timely payment of all employees according to government or company regulations.
The skills necessary to become a payroll supervisor include basic organizational, managerial, reporting, and procedural practices related to accounting. A payroll supervisor will likely need a working knowledge of some basic, computerized record-keeping systems involved in payroll processing. Knowledge of basic accounting clerical methods, tasks, and associated forms used in the daily operations of a payroll department is required. An understanding of regional and national government tax regulations related to accounting functions and payroll operations is a basic skill necessary for those wanting to become a payroll supervisor. Past experience with supervising and training employees will also likely be required for this position.
