Payroll Clerk

Esteem Recruitment; Durban; On-site; ZAR 50 000 - 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A payroll service provider is looking for a Payroll Clerk in Durban, South Africa. The successful candidate will be responsible for accurately processing payroll for contract employees while maintaining compliance with company policies and statutory requirements. Candidates must have a minimum of 2-3 years of payroll administration experience, strong attention to detail, and knowledge of South African labour laws. This role requires excellent organizational skills and the ability to work under pressure. Opportunities for professional growth and a supportive work environment are provided.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2-3 years experience in payroll administration.
• Experience with payroll systems essential.
• Knowledge of South African labour laws and statutory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Process payroll accurately and on time for all employees.
• Capture and maintain employee data including new hires and terminations.
• Verify timesheets, overtime, and leave records for accuracy.
• Calculate earnings, deductions, and statutory contributions.
• Prepare payslips and distribute them to employees.
• Assist with payroll queries and resolve discrepancies.
• Reconcile payroll reports and submit monthly statutory returns.
• Support the HR and Finance departments with payroll-related reporting.

Skills

Strong numerical and analytical skills

High level of accuracy and attention to detail

Confidentiality and integrity

Excellent organizational and time management skills

Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

Good communication and interpersonal skills

Computer literacy (MS Office, particularly Excel)

Education

Grade 12 (Matric)

Diploma/Certificate in Payroll, Finance, or HR

Tools

Sage

VIP

PaySpace

Pastel Payroll

Job description

Job Purpose

The Payroll Clerk will be responsible for assisting with the accurate and timely processing of payroll for employees on a contract basis. The role requires strong attention to detail, confidentiality, and the ability to meet deadlines while ensuring compliance with company policies and statutory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Process payroll accurately and on time for all employees.
• Capture and maintain employee data (new hires, terminations, salary changes, etc.).
• Verify timesheets, overtime, and leave records for accuracy.
• Calculate earnings, deductions, and statutory contributions (PAYE, UIF, SDL).
• Prepare payslips and distribute them to employees.
• Assist with payroll queries and resolve discrepancies.
• Reconcile payroll reports and submit monthly statutory returns.
• Assist in year-end processes including tax certificates (IRP5).
• Maintain payroll records in compliance with company policies and legislation.
• Support the HR and Finance departments with payroll-related reporting.

Qualifications & Experience

• Grade 12 (Matric) essential.
• Diploma/Certificate in Payroll, Finance, or HR (advantageous).
• Minimum 23 years experience in payroll administration.
• Experience with payroll systems (e.g., Sage, VIP, PaySpace, Pastel Payroll).
• Knowledge of South African labour laws and statutory requirements.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong numerical and analytical skills.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Confidentiality and integrity.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Computer literacy (MS Office, particularly Excel).