Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Senior Payroll Specialist to join our team, to deliver Payroll & support HR functions for our client based in Lanseria, Johannesburg within the plastic manufacturing industry. The ideal candidate will be responsible for processing payroll accurately and on time, supporting HR operations, and other internal stakeholders ensuring compliance with labour regulations and internal policies. This role requires a strong understanding of Payroll, the PaySpace System, HR practices, and a proactive approach to employee support.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Payroll Administration:

• Process client payrolls on PaySpace, including full monthly, fortnightly, and weekly cycles.
• Capture and audit all payroll input such as new hires, terminations, variable earnings/deductions, and other compensation changes (overtimes, shift allowances, claims).
• Manage Time and Attendance - Jarrison - in support of payroll input - work with the department managers to approve hours.
• Collaborating with the HR team to ensure employee records are up-to-date and accurate.
• Collaborating with the HR team by preparing compensation and benefit documents (increase & bonus letters) and support HR team with the termination documents (final payslips, UIF forms, End of service certificates).
• Acts as the System Administrator for all relevant HR systems (Payroll, Time and Attendance).
• Supports the Head of HR in processing and preparing documents for the annual salary review and annual salary comparison with the respective external partner.
• Ensure the accuracy and timely submission of payroll outputs, including payslips, reports, statutory declarations, and third-party payments.
• Responsible for the reconciliation, submissions and payment of all third parties.
• Preparing schedules and liaising with third party vendors.
• Manage the employee portfolios on Momentum, MIBFA, Discovery portals.
• Providing excellent customer service by answering payroll-related questions and resolving any issues in a timely and efficient manner.
• Support internal process improvements and ensure best practices are followed for BPO payroll delivery.
• Participating in ad hoc and special projects to improve payroll processes.
• Responsible for client satisfaction and client retention.
• Responsible for ensuring all outstanding debtors in respect of payroll portfolio are collected.
• Expat payroll knowledge will be advantageous.

Industrial Relations & Compliance: * Provide administrative support in disciplinary processes and hearings.

• Ensure compliance with labour laws, bargaining council requirements, and health & safety policies.
• Maintain confidentiality of all HR and payroll information.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Matric + PaySpace Certification (Essential).
• Diploma/Degree in Payroll Administration, Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field.
• 5 + years of payroll experience/administration.
• Minimum 5 years of full-function payroll experience in a BPO or shared services environment (will be to your advantage).
• Proven experience as a Payroll or HR Administrator (manufacturing experience advantageous).
• Demonstrated experience using PaySpace to manage multiple client payrolls.

• Strong MS Office skills especially in Excel and familiarity with HR systems
• Able to handle multi-task environment with profound organizational skills
• Must have a valid driver's license
• Must have reliable transportation

CORE COMPETENCIES & ATTRIBUTES
Behavioural Competencies

• A strong client-focus with a consulting mindset
• Effective communication and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail and accountability
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing deadlines
• Collaborative and team-oriented

Technical competencies

• Sound understanding of SARS legislation and statutory compliance (PAYE, UIF, SDL, COIDA)
• Must be able to resolve PAYE & other calculation queries on payslip
• Good knowledge and understanding of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act
• Advanced knowledge of PaySpace payroll software (multi-company functionality, batch uploads, reporting)

• Microsoft Word, Excel advanced experience (Pivots, V-Lookup, formulas).