Nature of the Work: Payroll and timekeeping clerks compile and post employee time and payroll data. They ensure that employees are paid on time and that their paychecks are accurate.

Education and Training: Payroll and timekeeping clerks typically learn the skills they need on the job. Employers prefer high school graduates who have computer skills.

Job Outlook: Current and Projected Employment.

2008 Employment 208,700
2018 Employment 197,700
Employment Change -10,900
Growth Rate -5%

Employment change: Employment is projected to decline slowly. Increased automation of the payroll and timekeeping process, and the use of computer software that allows employees to update and record their own payroll and timekeeping information, will decrease the need for payroll and timekeeping clerks.

Job prospects: Favorable opportunities are expected. Despite the projected employment decline, job openings will arise each year as payroll and timekeeping clerks leave the labor force or transfer to other occupations. Those who have completed a certification program, indicating that they can handle more complex payroll issues, will have an advantage in the job market.

Earnings: Median annual wages for payroll and timekeeping clerks were $34,810 in May 2008.