Payroll Administrator

Our client is seeking an experienced Payroll Administrator responsible for the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of payroll across multiple business units. The successful candidate will manage payroll inputs, verify employee attendance and overtime records, maintain payroll administration, ensure statutory compliance, and provide support to HR with various payroll and employee-related functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Process payroll inputs, including overtime, commissions, garnishee orders, deductions, allowances, and other payroll-related transactions.
• Review, verify, and capture timesheets, ensuring all records are accurate, approved, and correctly reflected within payroll systems.
• Verify overtime submissions and obtain the necessary approvals from line management before payroll processing.
• Administer payroll for multiple entities, ensuring compliance with relevant labour legislation, tax regulations, and payroll best practices.
• Maintain and update payroll records, employee information, and internal reporting databases.
• Process weekly, fortnightly, and monthly payroll cycles accurately and within prescribed deadlines.
• Review payroll reports, payslips, reconciliations, and related documentation to ensure accuracy prior to payroll finalisation.
• Assist with the compilation of employment equity, skills development, B-BBEE, and workforce reporting requirements.
• Update and maintain payroll input schedules and supporting documentation on a regular basis.
• Manage all payroll administration functions, ensuring employee records remain complete, accurate, and up to date.
• Support the day-to-day payroll operation and provide payroll-related assistance across the business.
• Prepare and issue UIF documentation, certificates of service, and other employee exit documentation.
• Process resignation acknowledgements and support employee termination administration.
• Respond promptly to payroll-related queries and liaise with management regarding payroll matters.
• Prepare statutory and third-party reconciliations, reports, and payment schedules, including pension/provident funds, bargaining councils, unions, and other deductions.
• Assist HR with the preparation and issuance of employment contracts, contract amendments, warnings, disciplinary notices, and related employee correspondence.
• Complete EMP201 and EMP501 reconciliations and facilitate the generation and distribution of IRP5 certificates.

Minimum Requirements

• Diploma or Certificate in Payroll Administration, Human Resources, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum 3-5 years' payroll administration experience.
• Experience processing high-volume payrolls across weekly, fortnightly, and monthly payroll cycles.
• Strong knowledge of South African payroll legislation, including PAYE, UIF, SDL, EMP201, EMP501, and IRP5 processes.
• Proficiency in payroll systems and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong attention to detail with excellent numerical accuracy.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive employee information.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict payroll deadlines.

Key Competencies

• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Strong administrative and organisational skills
• Time management and deadline-driven
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Confidentiality and integrity
• Effective communication skills
• Team player with a customer-service mindset