Payroll Specialist Job Description

We are looking for a payroll specialist to make sure our employees are paid accurately and on time, every month. You will collect and verify pay inputs, run the payroll, reconcile the results and prepare the declarations and payments that go with them. The role suits someone meticulous who is comfortable with numbers, rules and deadlines, and who can explain pay questions clearly to employees and managers. You will work closely with HR and finance and handle highly confidential data.

Responsibilities

• Collect and verify variable pay data such as hours, overtime, absences, bonuses and expense allowances
• Process the payroll cycle accurately and within the agreed calendar
• Handle starters, leavers and changes in contracts, salaries and personal details
• Calculate final payments and holiday balances for employees who leave
• Prepare and check payroll declarations and payments to tax and social security bodies in line with the rules that apply in the country
• Reconcile payroll data with the general ledger and prepare payroll reports for finance
• Answer employee and manager questions about payslips, deductions and pay rules
• Keep payroll files, records and audit trails organised and secure
• Monitor changes in pay and contribution rules and update the payroll set-up accordingly
• Support audits and propose improvements to payroll processes and controls

Requirements

• Experience in payroll, ideally on a full cycle from inputs to payment
• Good understanding of pay, tax and social contribution rules in the country concerned
• Strong numerical skills and accuracy with figures
• Advanced spreadsheet skills and ease with payroll software
• Strict confidentiality and professional integrity
• Ability to meet fixed monthly deadlines under pressure
• Clear communication, able to explain payslips simply to non-specialists

Nice to Have

• A professional qualification or training in payroll or HR administration
• Experience of multi-site or multi-country payroll
• Experience migrating or implementing a payroll system
• Experience of working with an external payroll provider