Payroll Accountant

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting an established East London retail group to hire a meticulous Payroll Accountant. You will manage payroll processing, ensure accurate tax and deductions, and maintain confidential employee data.

The ideal candidate holds a National Diploma in Accounting or related field, with 5+ years payroll experience and proficiency in Sage, Pastel, VIP Payroll, and advanced Excel. Based in East London, on-site role.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of payroll processing experience.
• Diploma or equivalent in accounting/payroll.
• Proficiency in SA payroll software (Sage, Pastel, VIP).
• Strong understanding of PAYE, UIF, SDL and Labour Law.

Responsibilities

• Process payroll on a weekly/bi-weekly/monthly basis.
• Calculate salaries, overtime, bonuses and deductions.
• Reconcile payroll general ledger accounts.
• Ensure compliance with labour laws and tax regulations.
• Liaise with payroll providers and government agencies.
• Prepare payroll tax filings and statutory reports.
• Respond to payroll queries and maintain records.
• Assist with payroll audits and system improvements.

Skills

Payroll processing experience

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Discretion and integrity

Time management

Education

National Diploma in Accounting, Payroll Administration, or related field

Tools

Sage

Pastel Payroll

VIP Payroll

Excel (Advanced)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established retail group operating in East London , is seeking a meticulous and experienced Payroll Accountant to manage their payroll function. This role is critical for ensuring accurate and timely processing of employee salaries, statutory deductions, and related payments. You will be responsible for maintaining payroll records, ensuring compliance with labour laws and tax regulations, and liaising with payroll service providers. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of payroll systems, a keen eye for detail, and a commitment to accuracy and confidentiality. This is an excellent opportunity to take ownership of the payroll function within a stable organization in East London .

Key Responsibilities

• Process payroll accurately and efficiently for all employees on a weekly/bi-weekly/monthly basis.
• Ensure correct calculation of salaries, wages, overtime, bonuses, and statutory deductions (PAYE, UIF, SDL).
• Manage and reconcile payroll-related general ledger accounts.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant labour laws, tax legislation, and company policies.
• Liaise with external payroll providers and relevant government agencies.
• Prepare and submit payroll tax filings and other statutory reports.
• Respond to employee queries regarding payroll and statutory deductions.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date employee payroll records.
• Assist with payroll audits and provide necessary documentation.
• Continuously review and improve payroll processes and systems for efficiency and accuracy.

Requirements

• A National Diploma in Accounting, Payroll Administration, or a related field.
• Membership in a professional payroll association (e.g., SAPPA) is advantageous.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience specifically in payroll processing and accounting.
• Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., Sage, Pastel Payroll, VIP Payroll) and advanced Excel skills.
• Thorough understanding of South African payroll legislation, tax regulations (PAYE), and labour laws.
• Experience with general ledger reconciliations related to payroll.
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and integrity.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet strict deadlines.
• Proactive attitude and willingness to take initiative.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, potential for performance-related increments, comprehensive medical aid coverage, and participation in a provident fund. Employees benefit from generous annual leave and opportunities for professional development within the finance department. The role is based in our offices in East London , providing a supportive and professional working environment. This position is ideal for a dedicated payroll professional seeking stability and career growth within a reputable retail group.