Payroll Administrator

We're recruiting on behalf of our client for an experienced Payroll Administrator to manage high-volume payroll within a manufacturing environment.

Role Purpose

To ensure accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing for a high-volume manufacturing workforce, including weekly and/or monthly payroll cycles.

The Payroll Administrator will manage all payroll-related processes, including statutory compliance, overtime calculations, shift allowances, leave administration, and reporting, ensuring alignment with company policies, bargaining council requirements, and South African labour legislation.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Processing

• Process weekly and/or monthly payroll for permanent and contract employees
• Accurately calculate wages, overtime, shift allowances, and production-related incentives
• Process leave, unpaid leave, sick leave, and maternity leave
• Capture and verify payroll input data

Compliance & Statutory Requirements

• Ensure compliance with SARS, UIF, SDL and PAYE regulations
• Prepare EMP201 and EMP501 submissions
• Manage IRP5 reconciliations and tax year-end processes
• Ensure compliance with bargaining council requirements where applicable

Time & Attendance Management

• Manage and reconcile time and attendance systems
• Verify clocking records and resolve discrepancies
• Coordinate with production and HR to validate shift patterns

Payroll Administration

• Maintain accurate employee payroll records
• Process deductions including garnishees, medical aid, provident fund, and union subscriptions
• Manage payroll queries and provide support to employees
• Prepare payroll reports for management

Audit & Reporting

• Support internal and external audits
• Ensure payroll data accuracy and confidentiality
• Prepare monthly payroll reports, cost analysis and headcount reports

Updated Minimum Requirements

• Diploma / Certificate in Payroll Administration, HR or Finance
• 3-5 years' payroll experience in a manufacturing environment
• Experience processing high-volume payroll (300+ employees advantageous)
• Proven experience with Sage VIP Payroll is essential
• Experience with Sage 300 or exposure to Sage 300 migration is highly advantageous
• Strong knowledge of South African payroll legislation
• Advanced Excel proficiency