Payroll Specialist

Michael Page (UK); Runcorn; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent recruitment agency is seeking a Payroll Specialist to manage payroll processes in Runcorn. The role involves preparing payroll, ensuring compliance with laws, and collaborating with HR and finance teams. Ideal candidates will have experience with payroll software like Workday or ADP, strong organisational skills, and knowledge of payroll legislation. The position offers a competitive salary ranging from £40,000 to £50,000, benefits including 25 holidays plus bank holidays, and opportunities for career development in the life sciences industry.

Benefits

Competitive salary

25 days holidays plus 8 days BH

CIPP study support

Access to additional benefits

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in payroll management and relevant software.
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation and compliance requirements.
• Exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to handle sensitive information confidentially.
• Experience collaborating with accounting & finance teams.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and process weekly and monthly payroll for all employees.
• Verify timesheets and ensure accurate calculation of wages.
• Maintain payroll records in compliance with regulations.
• Calculate and process tax withholdings and manage deductions.
• Assist employees with payroll-related questions.

Skills

Payroll management expertise

Knowledge of payroll legislation

Organisational skills

Confidentiality

Collaboration with finance teams

Proficiency in payroll reporting

Experience with Workday or ADP

Tools

Workday

ADP

Job description

• Payroll Specialist - Runcorn
• Permanent - £40k - £50k

About Our Client

The organisation is a prominent player in the life science sector, known for its commitment to delivering quality and excellence. Operating as a medium-sized firm, they are focused on fostering innovation and maintaining robust internal processes within their accounting and finance department.

Job Description

Payroll Processing

• Prepare and process weekly and monthly payroll for all employees.
• Verify timesheets, hours worked, commissions, bonuses, and other earnings.
• Ensure accurate calculation of wages, overtime, shift differentials, and deductions.
• Review and validate payroll data for accuracy prior to final submission.

Compliance & Recordkeeping

• Maintain payroll records in compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Stay current on wage laws, tax regulations, overtime rules, and labor standards.
• Ensure adherence to company policies and collective bargaining agreements (if applicable).
• Prepare and maintain confidential payroll files and documentation.

Tax & Deductions Management

• Calculate and process federal, state, and local tax withholdings.
• Manage deductions including benefits, retirement, garnishments, and other withholdings.
• Reconcile payroll tax filings and assist with quarterly/annual tax reporting (W-2, W-4, 1099, etc.).

Benefits & HR Coordination

• Assist employees with payroll-related questions, including pay discrepancies and direct deposit.
• Coordinate with HR regarding new hires, terminations, pay changes, and leave-of-absence updates.
• Maintain accurate records of PTO, sick time, and other leave balances.

Reporting & Audits

• Prepare payroll reports for management, finance, and HR departments.
• Assist with internal and external audits by providing payroll data and documentation.
• Reconcile payroll accounts and support month-end and year-end closing processes.

Systems & Process Improvement

• Maintain and update payroll systems, ensuring data accuracy and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot payroll software issues and coordinate with IT or vendors as needed.
• Identify opportunities to improve payroll workflows, accuracy, and timeliness.

The Successful Applicant

A successful Payroll Manager should have:

• Proven expertise in payroll management and relevant software Workday / ADP
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation and compliance requirements.
• Exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to handle sensitive information confidentially and professionally.
• Experience collaborating with accounting & finance teams.
• Proficiency in generating and analysing payroll reports.
• Experience migrating from one payroll system to another.
• A proactive approach to staying informed about industry developments in life science.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary ranging from £40,000 to £50,000 GBP.
• Plus annual salary on top
• 25 days holidays plus 8 days BH, option to purchase extra
• 35 hour working week
• CIPP study support
• Permanent position based in Runcorn.
• Opportunity to work within the life science industry.
• Be part of a supportive and professional team in the HR department
• Access to additional benefits to be discussed during the interview process.