Payroll & Pensions Advisor

Sure Start Staff; Lancashire; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A local authority team is seeking an experienced Payroll & Pensions Advisor to provide expert guidance on payroll legislation and pension regulations. This temporary position offers a balanced work environment with a flexible mix of office and home working, alongside a competitive hourly rate. The ideal candidate will have previous payroll experience in a government setting and relevant qualifications. This role supports a diverse workforce and includes key responsibilities in payroll processing and policy compliance.

Qualifications

• Candidates must have previous payroll experience within a local authority or government setting.
• Demonstrable post-qualification experience is essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert advice on payroll legislation and pension scheme regulations.
• Support the Payroll & Pensions Manager with strategies aligned to goals.
• Accurately process payroll and pensions for diverse conditions.

Skills

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Strong organisational skills

Advanced Excel skills

Education

CIPP Payroll Technician Certificate or equivalent

Job description

Payroll & Pensions Advisor
£15.56 per hour
Temporary until March 2026 (possible extension)
60/40 office-home split (flexible for the right candidate)
Monday - Friday

We are seeking an experienced Payroll & Pensions Advisor to join a local authority team on a temporary basis until March 2026, with potential to extend. This role offers a balance of office and home working and the opportunity to contribute to a high-performing payroll service supporting a diverse workforce.

As an Advisor, you will provide expert guidance to stakeholders on payroll legislation, policy, and pension regulations. You will be a confident communicator, able to deliver clear, accurate advice, maintain precise records, produce management information, and analyse data effectively. Experience using the iTrent HR & Payroll system is highly desirable.

Please note: Candidates MUST have previous payroll experience within a local authority or government setting. Applications lacking this essential experience cannot be considered.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert advice on payroll legislation, pension scheme regulations, and HR policy to ensure the Council meets statutory requirements.
• Support the Payroll & Pensions Manager in developing and implementing payroll and pensions strategies aligned to organisational goals.
• Accurately process payroll and pensions for employees across multiple terms and conditions and pension schemes.
• Remain up to date with legislation and regulatory changes, adapting processes when required.
• Handle payroll and pension-related queries promptly and effectively.

Requirements

Qualifications

• CIPP Payroll Technician Certificate or equivalent substantial qualification.

Experience

• Demonstrable post-qualification experience.
• Proven experience working within a diverse Payroll & Pensions environment.

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of payroll legislation, terms and conditions, and pension regulations.
• Experience administering Teachers' Pensions and LGPS.
• Solid knowledge of payroll employee/manager self-service systems.

Skills & Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage staff at all levels.
• Strong organisational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, prioritise workload, and meet deadlines.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and total quality management.
• High levels of literacy, numeracy, financial analysis capability, and advanced Excel skills.