Payroll Administrator
Job Description:Payroll administrators make sure employees get paid the right amount on the right date.
Job Category:What you will do:
You may:
- check how many hours employees have worked
- calculate and issue pay by cash, cheque or electronic transfer
- deduct tax and national insurance payments
- process holiday, sick and maternity pay, and expenses
- calculate overtime, shift payments and pay increases
- answer staff queries about timesheets or pay slips
- issue P45s and other tax forms
Skills:
You’ll need:
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of English language
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- administration skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- sensitivity and understanding
- the ability to work on your own (drive)
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
Entry Requirements:
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- a specialist course run by a professional body
College
You can do an introductory course in bookkeeping and payroll, which can be studied at a college or by distance learning. In the UK, for example, courses include:
- Foundation Certificate in Bookkeeping
- Certificate in Payroll
- Certificate in Bookkeeping
You could do a course in Accounting and then apply for trainee positions. This may give you the chance to work towards further qualifications on the job through part-time study or a payroll apprenticeship.
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships relevant to this role include:
- advanced Payroll assistant
- higher Payroll assistant manager
Direct Application
You could apply directly for job vacancies. While experience in payroll isn’t always essential, a background in bookkeeping and accounts could help improve your job prospects.
Working Hours and Environment:
A typical week consists of 37-39 hours of work. You could be required to work between 8am and 6pm.
You could work in an office.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could progress to payroll supervisor or manager.