Payroll Administrator

PTY; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency in Sandton is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Administrator for a 3-4 month contract. The candidate will process payroll, resolve payroll-related queries, and maintain confidentiality. Required qualifications include a minimum of 3-4 years in payroll administration and experience with Sage 300 People. Strong knowledge of payroll legislation and excellent communication skills are essential. This role is integral to providing efficient customer service and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3-4 years’ experience in Payroll Administration.
• Experience managing high-volume payrolls.
• Strong knowledge of statutory payroll deductions.

Responsibilities

• Accurately process payroll and resolve payroll-related queries.
• Capture payroll information for interim and main payroll runs.
• Maintain payroll records for audit purposes.

Skills

Attention to detail

Customer service

Confidentiality

Interpersonal skills

Ability to work under pressure

Education

Grade 12 with Accounting and/or Mathematics

Payroll Certificate or Diploma

Tertiary qualification in Payroll Administration and/or HR

Tools

Sage 300 People

Job description

Red Ember Recruitment (PTY) Ltd | Contract

Payroll Administrator

Sandton, South Africa | Posted on 10/02/2026

We are seeking a detail-oriented and service-driven Payroll Administrator to join our client for 3-4 months.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the accurate processing of payroll, providing efficient internal customer service, ensuring legislative compliance, and maintaining high standards of confidentiality.

Customer Service:

• Provide efficient support to relevant stakeholders by investigating and resolving payroll-related queries within agreed turnaround times.
• Deliver efficient, friendly, and effective internal service to all employees regarding payroll and HR-related matters.
• Uphold company values, policies, and the employee value proposition.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and protect payroll information in line with the POPI Act.

Payroll Input and Processing:

• Accurately and timeously capture payroll information for interim and main payroll runs.
• Ensure all employee data (personal, financial, and job-related) is correctly maintained on the payroll system.
• Prepare payrolls within agreed timelines for review and approval.
• Maintain payroll records and reports for audit purposes in line with statutory requirements.
• Ensure compliance with payroll standards and legislative requirements.
• Provide payroll support to the Payroll Manager to ensure smooth service delivery to the business.

Administration:

• Ensure Master Data accuracy in accordance with approved documentation.
• Administer leave by capturing all leave transactions accurately and preventing errors or duplication.

Reporting:

• Perform Flexicare medical insurance reconciliations.
• Compile and submit NUMSA and Stats SA reports.
• Prepare ad-hoc payroll and HR reports as required.

Training and Development:

• Attend recommended company training sessions.
• Stay up to date with payroll legislation and best practices.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3–4 years’ experience in Payroll Administration.
• Experience managing high-volume payrolls.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience using Sage 300 People (non-negotiable).
• Strong knowledge of statutory and discretionary payroll deductions, including PAYE calculations.
• Solid understanding of payroll legislation, processes, and compliance requirements.
• Knowledge of the Income Tax Act, UIF, and SDL.
• High level of computer literacy.
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment (advantageous).
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong integrity and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Customer-centric with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work to strict deadlines.
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure.

Qualification:

• Grade 12 with Accounting and/or Mathematics.
• Payroll Certificate or Diploma.
• Tertiary qualification in Payroll Administration and/or Human Resources (advantageous).