Payroll Administrator Jobs in Oxford

Payroll Administrator Jobs in Oxford

Job Description: Payroll Administrator

Location: Oxford

Main Responsibilities:

– Process payroll accurately and timely for all employees

– Calculate and process employee deductions, such as taxes, benefits, and garnishments

– Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with legal requirements

– Handle payroll inquiries and resolve discrepancies

– Prepare and distribute payroll reports and statements

– Assist with year-end payroll processes, including tax filings and W-2 preparation

– Collaborate with HR and Finance departments to ensure accurate employee data and accounting

Required Skills & Qualifications:

– Strong understanding of payroll processes and regulations

– Proficiency in payroll software and Microsoft Office (especially Excel)

– Excellent attention to detail and accuracy

– Strong organizational and time management skills

– Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information

– Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

– Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred

Experience:

– 2+ years of payroll processing experience

– Experience with UK payroll regulations and requirements

– Familiarity with various payroll systems and software

Pay Rates for Payroll Administrator Jobs in Oxford:

– Entry-level: £25,000 – £30,000 per year

– Mid-level: £30,000 – £40,000 per year

– Senior-level: £40,000 – £50,000+ per year

Various Payroll Administrator Jobs in Oxford:

1. Payroll Administrator

– Full-time, permanent role

– Salary: £32,000 per year

2. Senior Payroll Administrator

– Full-time, permanent role

– Salary: £45,000 per year

3. Part-time Payroll Administrator

– Part-time, 20 hours per week

– Hourly rate: £18 – £22 per hour

4. Payroll and Benefits Administrator

– Full-time, permanent role

– Salary: £35,000 per year

5. Temporary Payroll Administrator

– 6-month contract

– Hourly rate: £20 – £25 per hour

What Does a Payroll Administrator Do

A payroll administrator is responsible for managing and processing the payroll for an organization. This involves calculating employee pay and tax withholdings, entering data into the payroll system, reviewing timesheets, and ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time. Payroll administrators also handle tasks related to employee benefits, expense reimbursements, bonuses, and keeping records for reporting purposes.

Payroll administrators need to have strong attention to detail to avoid any errors in employee pay. They must be well-organized to juggle multiple deadlines and prioritize their work effectively. Mathematical and accounting skills are important for making payroll calculations. Payroll administrators should also have good computer skills, as most payroll systems are computerized. Communication skills are needed for answering employee questions about their pay and collaborating with other departments like Human Resources and Accounting.

Payroll Administrator Qualifications and Training

Most payroll administrator positions require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many employers prefer candidates who have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a related field such as accounting, finance, or business administration. College coursework in areas like payroll accounting, business law, and human resources management can be very helpful for payroll administrators.

In addition to education, payroll administrators typically receive on-the-job training to learn the specific payroll software and procedures used by their employer. Large organizations may offer more formal in-house training programs, while smaller companies rely more on the payroll administrator to learn independently. Payroll administrators can also pursue professional certifications to advance their career, such as the Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) credentials offered by the American Payroll Association.

Payroll experience is often required, especially for higher-level payroll administrator positions. Entry-level jobs may be open to candidates with some general accounting or administrative experience. Temporary or contract roles can provide a foot in the door for aspiring payroll administrators to gain relevant experience.

Payroll Administrator Salary and Job Outlook

According to data from Indeed.com, the average annual salary for payroll administrators in Oxford is £24,891. Entry-level payroll administrators may start out closer to £20,000, while those with more experience can earn over £30,000 per year. Larger companies tend to offer higher salaries than smaller organizations.

The job outlook for payroll administrators in Oxford is positive. Oxford has a diverse economy with job opportunities across sectors including education, healthcare, manufacturing, and professional services. Steady business growth and employee turnover will continue to generate demand for payroll professionals to onboard new hires and process paychecks.

The broader employment outlook for payroll administrators is also favorable. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% job growth for financial clerks, including payroll administrators, from 2021 to 2031. While some basic payroll functions may be automated, organizations will still need skilled payroll staff to implement and oversee payroll systems.

Where to Find Payroll Administrator Jobs in Oxford

There are several avenues to explore when searching for payroll administrator jobs in Oxford:

Online job boards are a great place to start your search. Websites like Indeed, Reed, CV-Library, and Total Jobs aggregate job postings from many different employers. You can use search filters to narrow down opportunities by location, salary, and experience level. Setting up job alerts can help you stay on top of new payroll administrator openings in Oxford.

The websites of local employers are another valuable resource. Check out the career pages of major organizations in Oxford, such as the University of Oxford, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and Oxford City Council. Smaller businesses may also list payroll jobs on their company website.

Recruitment agencies that specialize in accounting and finance can connect you with payroll administrator contract and permanent placement opportunities. Look for agencies with a strong presence in the Oxfordshire area. Developing a relationship with a recruiter can uncover job leads that may not be publicly advertised.

Leveraging your personal and professional network is a proven way to find payroll jobs. Let your contacts know you are seeking payroll administrator positions in the Oxford area. Attend industry events, such as local payroll or accounting association meetings, to meet practitioners and expand your network. You never know who may provide a lead to your next job.

Payroll Administrator Job Responsibilities

The day-to-day responsibilities of a payroll administrator can vary depending on the size and structure of the organization. In general, payroll administrators can expect to perform the following duties:

Processing payroll on a weekly, biweekly, or monthly basis is the core function of the job. This involves collecting and reviewing employee timesheets, calculating pay based on hours worked and pay rates, and entering data into the payroll system. Payroll administrators ensure the appropriate taxes and deductions are withheld and that employees receive their pay via direct deposit or physical check.

Administering employee benefits is another key aspect of the role. Payroll administrators enroll new employees in benefit plans, calculate and deduct employee benefit contributions, and remit payments to benefit providers. They may also assist with open enrollment and communicating benefit changes to employees.

Maintaining accurate payroll records is essential for compliance and reporting purposes. Payroll administrators keep organized files of timesheets, pay stubs, tax forms, and other payroll documentation. They reconcile payroll registers to bank statements and investigate any discrepancies. Generating payroll reports for management and external parties like benefit providers is also part of the job.

Ensuring compliance with tax laws and labor regulations is a critical responsibility. Payroll administrators stay current on tax rates and filing deadlines. They prepare and submit tax filings to the relevant government agencies. Payroll staff must also adhere to labor laws regarding overtime pay, minimum wage, sick leave, and other employee protections.

Collaborating with other departments is necessary to keep payroll running smoothly. Payroll administrators work closely with Human Resources on new hire onboarding, terminations, and changes to employee information that impact pay. They also partner with Accounting to ensure payroll data is recorded correctly in the general ledger and to facilitate financial reporting and audits.

Skills for Success as a Payroll Administrator

Attention to detail is paramount, as even small errors in payroll can have significant consequences. Payroll administrators must be meticulous in their data entry, calculations, and record-keeping. The ability to spot discrepancies and inconsistencies is valuable for maintaining accurate payroll.

Proficiency with payroll software and Microsoft Office is a must. Payroll administrators should be comfortable navigating payroll systems, importing and exporting data, and generating reports. Strong Excel skills are helpful for analyzing payroll data and creating spreadsheets. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero is also useful.

Knowledge of payroll best practices, tax regulations, and labor laws is essential for compliance. Top payroll administrators have a deep understanding of payroll processes and stay up-to-date on changing regulations. They are proactive in identifying areas of risk and implementing policies to maintain compliance.

Customer service orientation is important for addressing employee inquiries. Payroll issues can be sensitive and time-sensitive for employees. Payroll administrators must be patient, professional, and responsive in their communication. The ability to explain payroll concepts in plain language helps foster trust with employees.

Problem-solving skills are invaluable for troubleshooting payroll errors and anomalies. Payroll administrators encounter a wide range of challenges, from incorrect timesheet data to tax filing rejections. Being able to analyze problems, investigate root causes, and implement effective solutions keeps payroll operations running efficiently.

Conclusion

Payroll administrator jobs play a vital role in ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time. Oxford offers diverse opportunities for payroll professionals across industries. Payroll administrators are responsible for processing pay, administering benefits, maintaining records, ensuring compliance, and collaborating with other departments.

Successful payroll administrators bring a strong foundation in accounting principles, attention to detail, software proficiency, payroll knowledge, customer service skills, and problem-solving abilities. Pursuing relevant education, gaining payroll experience, and earning professional certifications can enhance job prospects in this rewarding field.

If you are considering a payroll administrator job in Oxford, start by exploring online job boards, employer websites, recruitment agencies, and your personal network. With the right qualifications and a commitment to accuracy and service, you can build a thriving career in payroll administration in this historic and economically vibrant city.

FAQs – Find Payroll Administrator Jobs in Oxford with Team Staffing Services

1. What are the main responsibilities of a Payroll Administrator in Oxford?

A Payroll Administrator in Oxford is responsible for managing the company’s payroll processes, ensuring accurate and timely payments to employees, maintaining payroll records, handling tax-related issues, and staying compliant with relevant laws and regulations.

2. What qualifications are required to become a Payroll Administrator in Oxford?

Typically, employers in Oxford seek candidates with a degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Relevant work experience in payroll or accounting is often required. Proficiency in payroll software and Microsoft Office is essential, and knowledge of UK tax laws and regulations is advantageous.

3. What is the average salary for a Payroll Administrator in Oxford?

The average salary for a Payroll Administrator in Oxford ranges from £25,000 to £35,000 per annum, depending on experience, qualifications, and the size of the company.

4. What career progression opportunities are available for Payroll Administrators in Oxford?

Payroll Administrators in Oxford can progress to senior roles such as Payroll Manager or Payroll Supervisor. With additional qualifications and experience, they may also move into related fields such as HR, accounting, or finance.

5. What are the working hours for Payroll Administrators in Oxford?

Most Payroll Administrator jobs in Oxford are full-time, with standard office hours (e.g., 9 am to 5 pm). However, some positions may require occasional overtime during busy periods, such as month-end or year-end processing.