Junior Payroll Analyst

Location: McLean, VA, United States Department: Finance

Position Summary

The Jr. Payroll Analyst supports the accurate and timely processing of payroll by performing payroll data entry, reviewing employee information, responding to routine payroll inquiries, maintaining payroll records, and assisting with payroll audits and reconciliations. This position works closely with Payroll, Human Resources, Benefits, Timekeeping, and other internal teams to ensure payroll information is complete, accurate, and processed in accordance with established procedures and deadlines.

Compensation & Benefits

Starting Salary Range for Jr. Payroll Analyst: $58,000 - $80,000 D.O.E, plus annual bonus.

When considering your next opportunity, compensation is only part of the picture. We offer a benefits package designed to invest in your future and support your life outside of work.

Highlights include

Up to a 6% 401(k) company match to help you build long-term financial security

Paid time off as part of our comprehensive benefits package, so you have the flexibility to rest, recharge, and enjoy what matters most

Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus prescription drug coverage

Basic life and AD&D insurance, with supplemental life options

Short-term and long-term disability coverage

Paid holidays

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options

Professional development, training, and certification support

Voluntary benefits including accident, critical illness, and identity theft protection

Because taking care of our employees isn’t just a promise, it’s part of who we are. Benefits are subject to change and eligibility requirements apply.

Essential Functions, Duties & Responsibilities

Includes the following

Support weekly, biweekly, off-cycle, and other payroll processing activities as assigned.

Review and enter payroll transactions, including deductions, earnings, adjustments, and other employee payroll updates.

Review payroll data and supporting documentation for accuracy before processing.

Assist in pre- and post-payroll audits and identify discrepancies requiring correction or escalation.

Monitor payroll inboxes and ticketing systems and respond to routine employee and manager inquiries within established service-level expectations.

Research payroll questions and escalate complex tax, compliance, system, or calculation issues to Payroll Analysts or Payroll leadership as appropriate.

Assist with processing off-cycle payments, manual checks, returned payments, stop payments, and direct deposit corrections.

Assist with employee overpayment tracking and recovery activities.

Maintain accurate payroll records, documentation, trackers, and supporting files.

Review timekeeping and payroll data for missing, incomplete, or potentially inaccurate information and coordinate corrections with appropriate stakeholders.

Support payroll-related audits by gathering documentation and responding to information requests.

Follow established payroll procedures, internal controls, and data privacy requirements.

Maintain strict confidentiality of employee compensation, banking, tax, garnishment, and other sensitive information.

Perform other payroll-related duties and special projects as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

No supervisory/management authority

Basic Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent.

0–2 years of payroll, HR, accounting, finance, or related administrative experience preferred.

Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.

Ability to work effectively under strict payroll deadlines.

Ability to work in a team environment

Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information appropriately.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Entry-Level experience in Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and other Microsoft Office applications.

Strong customer service and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

1–2 years of payroll, HR, accounting, finance, or related administrative experience preferred.

Work Environment

Work is performed primarily in a climate-controlled environment.

Company Information

Behind every government mission stands skilled, mission-driven talent: people whose expertise and dedication turn complex challenges into successful outcomes. Cherokee Nation Businesses Corp - CFED, part of Cherokee Federal, the federal contracting division of Cherokee Nation Businesses, is that team. We modernize aging systems, deliver care where it’s needed most, and keep missions supplied, staffed, and moving across defense, intelligence, and civilian agencies. For more than 60 federal clients, we take on the work others won’t, and deliver where it counts. If that’s the kind of work you’re looking for, you’ve found your team. Learn more at cherokee-federal.com.

#CherokeeFederal #LI-WD1

Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Cherokee Federal is a federal contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA). As required by VEVRAA, we take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans. Protected veterans are encouraged to self-identify during the application process.

Cherokee Federal takes affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. Q