Payroll Administrator

Job Description:

Job Title: Payroll Administrator
Salary: £28,000 – £32,000 per annum + Bonus + Benefits
Job Type: Full-time | Flexitime | Hybrid Working After Probation

About the Role

We’re currently working on behalf of a well-established and growing accountancy practice to recruit an experienced Payroll Administrator. This is a standalone position where you'll be responsible for delivering accurate, compliant payroll services for a varied portfolio of clients.

If you thrive in a fast-paced, client-focused environment and enjoy owning the full payroll function, this could be the perfect opportunity to make your mark!

Key Responsibilities

• End-to-end processing of multiple payrolls (weekly, fortnightly, and monthly), including director-only and CIS payrolls

• Managing auto-enrolment and pension uploads (Nest and other providers)

• Producing payslips, RTI submissions, FPS/EPS filings, and handling HMRC reporting

• Onboarding new client payrolls and setting up schemes

• Handling starters, leavers, statutory payments (SSP, SMP, etc.), and changes in employee details

• Answering payroll queries from clients, employees, and external agencies

• Year-end processes including P60s and P11Ds

• Supporting and upskilling internal team members on payroll matters

• Contributing to the continuous improvement of payroll procedures

What We’re Looking For

• Solid payroll experience (ideally within a bureau or accountancy firm)

• Strong working knowledge of UK payroll legislation, RTI, auto-enrolment, and CIS

• Proficient with Sage Payroll (desktop version preferred)

• Able to manage multiple client deadlines and work independently

• High level of accuracy and attention to detail

• Excellent communication skills with a friendly, client-focused attitude

Nice to Have (But Not Essential)

• Familiarity with other payroll systems such as BrightPay, Xero Payroll, or IRIS

• Basic bookkeeping or accounts knowledge

• A passion for improving internal processes and systems

What’s in It for You

• Competitive salary + bonus scheme

• Flexitime and hybrid working after probation

• Private pension scheme

• Additional leave

• Casual dress code

• Referral programme

• Ongoing CPD and training support

• Supportive, friendly working culture

• Interesting and varied client work

Interested?

If you're a payroll professional looking for a fresh challenge in a supportive environment with real autonomy, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today or contact the team at Howard James Recruitment for more information.