Payroll Officer
Position summary
Introduction
Job description
- Preparation and processing of the monthly payroll for -1500 employees on the Sage People payroll system (This includes the end-to-end cycle of payroll processing from take on of new employees, leave, terminations)
- Review and ensure accuracy of approved overtime claims, reimbursements, deductions
- Coordination between payroll and human resources, to ensure proper flow and maintenance of employee data
- Administration of the ESS system
- Administration of provident fund claims and submission of medical aid applications.
- Processing of Workman’s Compensation claims and queries.
- Processing of labour department documentation for maternity, unpaid leave and terminations
- Handling all payroll related queries sent to payroll department Inbox in a professional and timeous manner.
- Generating reports for payments e.g. PAYE returns, COID ROE and other third parties
- Maintain a proper document control system
- Keep abreast with company policies and tax legislations that impact on remuneration
- Prepare month-end journals and reporting for the finance department (Including preparation/distribution of detailed reports e.g. overtime, leave balances, head count, and month end reports)
- PAYE returns
- Write and print standard reports on Sage 300 People
- Preparation of analytical information to management
- Analysing of remuneration data to management
- Presentation of monthly Induction for new employees
- Ad hoc projects and presentations
Minimum requirements
- Matric/Grade 12
- 5 years’ end to end payroll processing experience.
- Accounting or Payroll qualification will be advantageous
- Strong numeric acumen
- E-Filing experience will be advantageous
- Above average Ms Excel abilities (must know VLOOKUP function & pivot tables, data validation for reconciliation and reporting, etc.)
- Average Word and Powerpoint skills
- Must have a clear credit record
Technical & Job-Specific Skills
- Payroll Software Proficiency
Experience with Sage 300 payroll system, ESS & VIP
- Understanding of Payroll Legislation
Sound understanding of tax laws, UIF, PAYE, SDL, labour-related payroll requirements and
other statutory requirements in South Africa.
- Excel & Data Management
Strong skills in spreadsheets, formulas, pivot tables, and data validation.
- Numerical Accuracy
High attention to detail which is critical for ensuring salaries and deductions are calculated correctly every cycle.
- Time Management & ability to work under pressure
Ability to meet strict payroll deadlines and manage multiple pay cycles consistently.
Soft Skills
- Confidentiality & Integrity
Handling sensitive employee data with discretion.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise extreme discretion
Ability to build trust and relationships
- Communication Skills
Clear communication with HR, finance, and employees regarding payroll queries.
High level of verbal/written communication skills
Strong client orientation and exceptional client service delivery
- Problem-Solving
Ability to independently investigate and resolve discrepancies and handling payroll errors efficiently.
Excellent problem solving/judgement skills, and high level of attention to detail and accuracy
- Organizational Skills
Keeping accurate records and managing documentation for audits or compliance.
Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks and meet all deadlines
Strong organisational skills, and the ability to work independently and under pressure
Task driven and delivery focused
- Adaptability
Staying updated with changes in legislation and system upgrades.
Self-starter and self-motivated
Able to work both independently and as part of a team
Innovative and willing to share ideas for new ways of working
Bonus Skills
- Basic Accounting Knowledge
- Report Generation & Analysis
- Experience with Employee Benefits Administration
- Knowledge of Labour Law and HR Processes