Payroll Specialist: Precise Processing & Compliance

Wates; Greater London; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

Wates is seeking a Payroll Co-ordinator to support the monthly payroll processing, maintain accurate records, and resolve payroll queries in partnership with HR, Finance and pension providers.

The role covers HMRC compliance, year-end activities, pension administration and data confidentiality. Strong numeracy, Excel proficiency and payroll systems experience are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Previous payroll administration or payroll co-ordination experience.
• Understanding of PAYE, National Insurance, pensions and statutory payments.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Strong numerical and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage confidential information appropriately.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and payroll systems.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and process monthly payrolls within agreed deadlines.
• Input, validate and maintain employee payroll data (new starters, leavers, changes, salary amendments, allowances, deductions, absences).
• Review payroll reports and exception reports for accuracy.
• Process statutory payments (SSP, SMP, SPP, SAP, ShPP).
• Support payroll reconciliations and sign-off activities.
• Ensure payroll activities comply with HMRC legislation and company policies.
• Maintain records for PAYE, National Insurance, pensions and salary sacrifice.
• Assist with year-end activities including P60 production and payroll reconciliations.
• Respond to payroll queries from employees and managers; investigate discrepancies.
• Provide guidance on payslips, deductions, statutory payments, and payroll processes.
• Process pension enrolments, opt-outs and contribution changes; liaise with pension providers.
• Support automatic enrolment compliance; maintain confidential data handling.
• Maintain accurate payroll records and perform data validation and quality checks.

Skills

PAYE

National Insurance

Pensions

Statutory payments

Excel

Payroll systems

Attention to detail

Time management

Communication skills

Customer service

Analytical skills

Confidential data handling

Tools

Payroll software

Job description

Wates is seeking a Payroll Co-ordinator to support the monthly payroll processing, maintain accurate records, and resolve payroll queries in partnership with HR, Finance and pension providers.

The role covers HMRC compliance, year-end activities, pension administration and data confidentiality. Strong numeracy, Excel proficiency and payroll systems experience are essential for success.