Payroll Officer (3-Month Contract)

About the role

The Payroll Officer is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of employees' salaries, wages, allowances, deductions and other payroll-related payments. The role ensures that payroll complies with labour laws, tax regulations, statutory requirements and company policies, while keeping employee payroll records confidential and accurate. This is a 3-month contract.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare and process monthly payroll on time, calculating salaries, overtime, bonuses, commissions, allowances and benefits, and handling statutory deductions such as income tax, social contributions and pension contributions.
• Calculate leave payments, sick leave and unpaid leave, and prepare payslips, payroll summaries and reports.
• Submit payroll payments to the bank on time and keep accurate records for statutory audits.
• Ensure compliance with labour laws and tax regulations, prepare statutory returns and stay up to date with legislative changes.
• Maintain employee payroll records, handle attendance, leave and overtime documentation, and answer employee queries; prepare final salary calculations for departing employees.
• Reconcile payroll reports with accounting records and bank schedules, prepare monthly payroll journals, investigate discrepancies and assist with internal and external audits.
• Work with HR and Finance, file payroll documentation, identify process improvements and perform other duties assigned by management.

Required profile

• Diploma or degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources or a related field.
• Minimum of 2-3 years' experience in payroll administration or a similar position.
• Good knowledge of payroll processing and statutory requirements, and of employment legislation and taxation.
• Experience with payroll software and Microsoft Excel.

Required skills

• Strong numerical and analytical skills, with high accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good organisational and time-management skills, able to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• Strong communication, problem-solving and reconciliation skills, and ability to work independently and in a team.
• Integrity, discretion and confidentiality.