In this economy, Payroll just might be the place to be. New research from Robert Half International forecasts an average salary increase of 3.4 percent in 2009 for finance and accounting staff, despite the bumpy economy. Those receiving the biggest increases have found ways to reduce inefficiencies and enhance profitability – a difficult task for those working in what’s traditionally seen as a cost center.

Here’s a sampling of what other Accounting/Payroll professionals are being paid, according to the Robert Half International 2009 Salary Survey. Keep in mind, however, that specific job duties and geographic location can widely influence these salary ranges:

Large companies ($250M + in sales):
Payroll Manager/Supervisor: $50,500 – $74,000 (3.8% increase over 2008)

Payroll Coordinator/Administrator: $36,750 – $48,500 (up 3.6% over last year)

Payroll Clerk: $30,500 – $39,00 (3.7% increase)

Midsize companies ($25M to $250M in sales):
Payroll Manager/Supervisor: $43,000 – $57,750 (3.6% over 2008)

Payroll Clerk: $29,750 – $38,250 (up 3.4% from last year)

Small Companies (up to $25M in sales):
Payroll Manager/Supervisor: $37,250 – $47,500 (up 3.4% over 2008)

Payroll Clerk: $27,750 – $34,750 (up 3.3% over last year)

Tags: Payroll, Robert Half, salary