Payroll Officer

Job overview

We’re looking for an organised, proactive Payroll Officer to join our friendly and supportive payroll team. In this key role, you’ll help deliver a high‑quality, accurate payroll and pensions service for the Trust and our external clients.

You’ll work closely with Payroll Team Leaders across the full end‑to‑end monthly payroll cycle, ensuring processes run smoothly, efficiently and in line with policy and best practice. You’ll also support managers by helping them access the information they need to lead their teams effectively, providing clear guidance and practical support when required.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys problem‑solving, takes pride in accuracy, and wants to contribute to a service that makes a real difference to staff across the Trust.

This vacancy may close early if we receive sufficient suitable applications, so early submission is recommended.

Applications are assessed directly against the Person Specification. In the Supporting Information section, please demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria, as well‑evidenced applications are more likely to progress.

To apply, you must hold an NVQ Level 4  Certificate in Payroll Management, or be able to demonstrate equivalent relevant experience.

Main duties of the job

• Provide an accurate and timely payroll service including the appointments/transfer of staff in the ESR payroll software system. With a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. •    Process manual calculations of pay, as required, including correct application of Income Tax, National Insurance, Pension contributions, Statutory Sick Pay, Statutory Maternity Pay, Adoption Leave, Parental Leave, Student Loans, Attachment Orders and other statutory/non statutory deductions and allowances. •    Work to strict deadlines and re-priorities workstreams when the need arises and in accordance with payroll procedures and Trust Standing Financial Instructions (SFI’s). •    Support the development of service delivery throughout the organisation. •    Ensure that all adjustments to salaries are correctly approved prior to processing, in line with current policies and procedures. •    Deal sensitively, often in emotional circumstances regarding any queries relating to salary. •    Maintain knowledge and understanding of National and local terms and conditions i.e., Agenda for Change, Medical and Dental, Consultants, etc., escalating any areas requiring clarification as required, to support the accurate and timely payment of monthly salaries. •    Act in accordance with Trust policies and procedures, suggesting any improvements, as and when appropriate.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

• Provide an accurate and timely payroll service including the appointments/transfer of staff in the ESR payroll software system. With a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. •    Process manual calculations of pay, as required, including correct application of Income Tax, National Insurance, Pension contributions, Statutory Sick Pay, Statutory Maternity Pay, Adoption Leave, Parental Leave, Student Loans, Attachment Orders and other statutory/non statutory deductions and allowances. •    Work to strict deadlines and re-priorities workstreams when the need arises and in accordance with payroll procedures and Trust Standing Financial Instructions (SFI’s). •    Support the development of service delivery throughout the organisation. •    Ensure that all adjustments to salaries are correctly approved prior to processing, in line with current policies and procedures. •    Deal sensitively, often in emotional circumstances regarding any queries relating to salary. •    Maintain knowledge and understanding of National and local terms and conditions i.e., Agenda for Change, Medical and Dental, Consultants, etc., escalating any areas requiring clarification as required, to support the accurate and timely payment of monthly salaries. •    Act in accordance with Trust policies and procedures, suggesting any improvements, as and when appropriate. •    Maintain confidential records, both paper and electronic, for all employees, including National Insurance, Income Tax, Pension, Attachment Orders, and other relevant data in accordance with both Trust and Statutory regulations. •    Resolve queries on all matters relating to pay and pensions, by telephone, in writing, by email and/or in person. •    Ensure information held in the payroll system is current, enabling other departments to provide statistical data. •    Maintain an effective working relationship within the team, across the organisation, and with internal and external stakeholders.