Payroll Associate

About the Role

As a Payroll Associate, you'll help ensure our Family Members are paid accurately and on time by supporting critical payroll processes, validating payroll data, and resolving discrepancies. Your work directly impacts the Team Member experience and helps maintain trust across the organization. In this role, you'll Make a Difference by delivering accurate payroll outcomes, Serve with Heart by providing timely support and resolving payroll concerns, Win as One by partnering with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth payroll operations, and Move Forward Boldly by identifying opportunities to improve processes, strengthen compliance, and enhance efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Analyze, review, and validate payroll data
• Process weekly payroll accurately and on time
• Research and resolve payroll discrepancies
• Ensure compliance with payroll policies and regulations
• Respond to payroll inquiries with timely, accurate support
• Maintain and reconcile payroll records and reports
• Support payroll close activities and reporting requirements
• Recommend payroll process improvements
• Collaborate with internal partners to resolve payroll issues
• Perform other duties as assigned

Pay & Perks

• Competitive Weekly Pay
• Bonus Program that scales up to 2.5X payout potential based on company results
• 5 weeks PTO
• Flex Weeks
• Paid Corporate Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave*
• 401(k) match $1/$1 up to 4%
• Competitive Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits*
• Short-term and Long-term Disability Benefits*
• Opportunities for Career Development and Growth
• Whataburger Family Foundation - Scholarship Program (dependents eligible) and Hardship Grant Assistance
• Discounted Meals for You and a Guest
• Wireless Service Discounts
• Computer & Software Discounts
• Fitness / Gym Discounts
• Awards and recognition for all you do
• Retirement Celebration Program

Required Experience

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent work experience
• 1+ year of payroll or related experience
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Experience working with payroll systems
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Customer service and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• Reliable attendance and availability during standard business hours

Desired Experience

• Experience processing high-volume payroll
• Experience researching payroll variances and audit exceptions
• Knowledge of payroll compliance requirements
• Experience with payroll reporting and reconciliations
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Experience supporting employees in a service-focused environment

Where & How You'll Work

This role is based at the San Antonio Home Office, working on-site Monday through Thursday with remote flexibility on Fridays. In this role, you'll have strong collaboration with leadership, across cross-functional teams, and with external partners to align capabilities with restaurant realities. The work environment is fast-paced and requires sound judgment, strategic thinking, and strong collaboration skills. Full-time availability is required, with occasional extended hours based on business needs, along with occasional travel to properties, project sites, and external meetings. Candidates must reside within commuting distance of the San Antonio Home Office.