Payroll Associate

Whataburger; San Antonio (TX); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Bonus program

5 weeks PTO

Paid parental leave

401(k) match

Job summary

Whataburger is seeking a Payroll Associate to ensure accurate, on-time pay for team members. You will validate payroll data, resolve discrepancies, and maintain compliant payroll records while partnering with cross-functional teams and leadership to improve processes.

The role supports weekly payroll cycles, requires attention to detail, and offers growth opportunities in a dynamic, service-driven environment at the San Antonio home office.

Qualifications

• As a Payroll Associate, you must meet minimum education and payroll experience requirements.
• 1+ year of payroll or related experience is required.
• Proficiency in Excel and strong attention to detail are essential.

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

Skills

Payroll experience

Attention to detail

Microsoft Excel

Analytical skills

Customer service

Discretion with confidential info

Time management

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma/GED

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Welcome to Whataburger Careers!

Our Flavor --- Why Whataburger

Whataburger isn't just a fast-food burger chain it is where bold leadership starts --- and where potential doesn't just grow, it heats up. Whether you're leading the line or working behind the scenes, this is the place where opportunities stack up, and every day gives you a chance to Make a Difference. Since 1950, we've invested in people who lead with integrity, Serve with Heart , and bring their best flavor to the team. We believe in working together, speaking up, having a little fun, and Winning as One --- because great burgers (and great teams) start with the right ingredients. If you're ready --- to learn, grow, impact, and Move Forward Boldly --- we've got your back and your path cooked to perfection.

Your Recipe For Impact --- What You'll Do

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.

Day-to-Day Ingredients --- Responsibilities

As a Payroll Associate, you will:

• 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

The Sauce --- Pay & Perks

As a Payroll Associate, You Will Receive

• 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

What You Bring To The Table --- Required Experience

As a Payroll Associate, you must have:

• 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

Extra Toppings --- Desired Experience

As a Payroll Associate, we prefer you to have:

• 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.

Whataburger is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, age, or other condition or status protected by law. Whataburger participates in the federal E-Verify Program. For more information go to www.dhs.gov/E-Verify. E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

• Eligibility rules may apply

300 Concord Plaza Dr San Antonio TX 78216-6903