How much does a Payroll Specialist make in Portland, OR?
A Payroll Specialist in Portland, Oregon, can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary stands at $88,379, making it an attractive position for those entering the field. This average salary reflects the skills and responsibilities required for the role.
Here’s a look at how salaries break down across different levels in the field:
- The lowest 10% earn about $64,600 per year.
- The middle 50% earn between $73,255 and $99,218 annually.
- The highest 10% can make up to $112,200 per year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Specialist near Portland, OR?

-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $137,388
In San Francisco, you can find rewarding roles in finance and tech. Companies like Google and Salesforce offer great opportunities. They seek dedicated professionals to manage payroll accurately and timely.
Find Payroll Specialist jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Bellevue, WA
Average Salary: $124,478
Bellevue is home to tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon. Working here means collaborating with top-tier companies. They value skilled payroll experts who ensure smooth financial operations.
Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Bellevue, WA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $120,517
Seattle offers dynamic job markets in technology and aerospace. Companies such as Boeing and Amazon look for precise payroll specialists. They ensure employee payments are processed efficiently.
Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $107,684
Los Angeles has a vibrant job market with opportunities in entertainment and finance. Firms like Bank of America and PwC hire payroll specialists who are detail-oriented. They help manage employee compensation effectively.
Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Boise, ID
Average Salary: $99,570
Boise provides a mix of government and private sector jobs. The city is known for companies like Albertsons and Micron. They seek payroll experts who can navigate state-specific regulations.
Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Boise, ID
-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $95,430
Sacramento is a hub for state government jobs and tech startups. Companies like TEKsystems and the State of California look for payroll specialists who are adept at handling state-specific payroll needs.
Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Sacramento, CA
-
Olympia, WA
Average Salary: $93,631
Olympia offers a blend of government and private sector roles. The state capital employs many in financial services. Companies seek payroll professionals who ensure accurate pay processing.
Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Olympia, WA
-
Tacoma, WA
Average Salary: $73,298
Tacoma has a growing job market with a mix of industries. Companies like Starbucks and Pierce County look for payroll specialists who can manage employee payments accurately.
Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Tacoma, WA
-
Reno, NV
Average Salary: $57,499
Reno provides opportunities in gaming and hospitality. Companies like Station Casinos and Eldorado Resorts seek payroll experts who can handle complex payroll systems.
Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Reno, NV
What are the best paying companies for a Payroll Specialist in Portland, OR?

-
Port of Portland
Average Salary: $100,033
The Port of Portland offers competitive salaries for Payroll Specialists. These specialists ensure timely and accurate payroll processing for all employees. They work at the Port of Portland, located in North Portland, Oregon.
-
Davis Wright Tremaine LLP
Average Salary: $96,830
Davis Wright Tremaine LLP provides a robust environment for Payroll Specialists. These specialists manage payroll operations efficiently and accurately. They work out of offices located in downtown Portland and Lake Oswego.
-
Portland State University
Average Salary: $79,558
At Portland State University, Payroll Specialists play a key role in ensuring all staff and faculty are paid correctly. They work at the university's main campus in downtown Portland, as well as other campus locations.
What are the best paying Payroll Specialist related jobs in Portland, OR?

-
Compliance Officer
Average Salary: $268,500
A Compliance Officer ensures that organizations adhere to laws and regulations. In Portland, you could work for companies like Nike or Oregon Health & Science University. This role involves monitoring company policies and practices to prevent violations.
Find Compliance Officer jobs in Portland, OR
-
Employee Relations Specialist
Average Salary: $111,301
This role focuses on maintaining a positive work environment. At companies such as Portland General Electric or Moda Health, you'd handle issues related to employee satisfaction and engagement. The goal is to foster a productive workplace culture.
Find Employee Relations Specialist jobs in Portland, OR
-
Cost Analyst
Average Salary: $110,233
A Cost Analyst examines financial data to help companies make budget decisions. In Portland, you might find roles with companies like Oregon State University or local government agencies. You will analyze spending patterns and suggest ways to save money.
Find Cost Analyst jobs in Portland, OR
-
Payroll Manager
Average Salary: $104,849
A Payroll Manager oversees the payroll system, ensuring employees are paid correctly. At firms like Intel or New Seasons Market, you would manage payroll processes and troubleshoot any issues that arise. This position requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Find Payroll Manager jobs in Portland, OR
-
Business Analyst
Average Salary: $94,562
A Business Analyst studies a company's operations to find ways to improve efficiency. For example, at companies like Providence or Autodesk, you would analyze data and present findings to management. This role involves using data to make informed decisions.
Find Business Analyst jobs in Portland, OR
-
Budget Analyst
Average Salary: $88,160
A Budget Analyst helps companies plan and manage their finances. In Portland, you could work with organizations such as the City of Portland or Kaiser Permanente. This role involves tracking spending and suggesting budget adjustments.
Find Budget Analyst jobs in Portland, OR
-
Benefits Specialist
Average Salary: $75,460
A Benefits Specialist manages employee benefits programs. At companies like OHSU or Kaiser Permanente, you would ensure employees understand and can access their benefits. This role involves communicating with staff about health, retirement, and other benefits.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Portland, OR
-
Human Resources Manager
Average Salary: $72,670
A Human Resources Manager oversees all aspects of the HR department. At companies such as Nike or the Port of Portland, you would handle hiring, training, and employee relations. This role requires strong leadership and communication skills.
Find Human Resources Manager jobs in Portland, OR
-
Payroll Administrator
Average Salary: $72,453
A Payroll Administrator processes employee paychecks and related documents. At companies like Providence or Intel, you would ensure accurate and timely payroll processing. This position demands meticulous attention to detail.
Find Payroll Administrator jobs in Portland, OR
-
Staff Accountant
Average Salary: $69,970
A Staff Accountant handles daily financial transactions. In Portland, you could find opportunities with companies like Adidas or the State of Oregon. This role involves recording, organizing, and reviewing financial information.
Find Staff Accountant jobs in Portland, OR



