For employees to be paid correctly and on time, they must submit their hours worked either electronically or manually to timekeepers. Timekeepers maintain an accurate track of hours worked for payroll purposes. They typically are hired as acting liaisons between employees and payroll coordinators to ensure the smooth process of pay distribution. Calculating an employee’s time worked, production and commission are duties of a timekeeper.

Knowledge

Timekeepers must have knowledge in accounting and payroll data software programs. Many organizations require timekeepers to have knowledge in administrative skills such as operating computers, 10-key calculators, word processing and proficiency with Excel spreadsheets. It is imperative for timekeepers to know personnel compensation and benefits relating to hours worked. Knowledge of mathematical reasoning and analytical skills are needed to avoid any errors during work.

Abilities

Timekeepers must have the ability to compute and post wages and deductions with employee hours worked. They must be extremely reliable since they are dealing with time-related issues and paycheck distribution. Timekeepers must be capable of multitasking, planning and organizing details while communicating effectively with co-workers and employees. They must be able to attend meetings and inform employees on information that helps prepare for future issues related to payroll discrepancies.

Functions

Duties of a timekeeper include maintaining time sheets and accurately inputting time and attendance data into the computer. They verify attendance, hours worked and pay adjustments while tracking overtime hours and approving compensatory time earned. A timekeeper also is responsible for keeping track of leave time such as vacation, holidays, personal or sick days for employees. Duties also include ensuring time sheets are submitted and received by employees on time to issue accurate payroll adjustments.

Places of Work

The majority of timekeepers work in cubicles or offices in the human resources department of a company. Some timekeepers work in warehouses or on-site to manage manual time sheets used by labor workers. Timekeepers also work for companies that are contracted by multiple organizations to take care of their timekeeping needs.