At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in delivering accurate payroll services and support client communications.
- Company: Join a supportive accountancy practice with a strong team culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Great career progression and a dedicated wellbeing team.
- Why this job: Kickstart your payroll career in a welcoming environment that values growth.
- Qualifications: CIPP qualification or payroll experience; eagerness to learn is key.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
Newton Abbot, Devon – Hybrid available after probation
Permanent | Monday-Friday 37.5 hours per week (flexible working around core hours 9:30am – 4:00pm)
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Closing Date: 30th May 2026
About the Opportunity
Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are proud to be working in partnership with a long‑established accountancy practice in Newton Abbot, who are looking to welcome a Payroll Administrator to their friendly and supportive team. Known for their strong team culture and excellent staff retention (with an average tenure of 8 years), this is a business where people feel valued, supported, and encouraged to grow. Collaboration, open communication, and work life balance are genuinely prioritised, alongside ongoing training and development opportunities. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone early in their payroll career to build their skills in a collaborative environment, gaining hands on experience while being supported every step of the way.
The Role
As a Payroll Administrator, you’ll play an important role in delivering a smooth and accurate payroll service to a varied client base, while gaining exposure to a wide range of payroll processes. You’ll be supported by an experienced team and encouraged to build confidence, knowledge, and client relationships as you develop.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with preparing and processing weekly, monthly, and bi‑weekly payrolls
- Support calculations for tax, National Insurance, pensions, and statutory deductions
- Submit HMRC RTI reports
- Help manage pension processing and auto‑enrolment
- Input and maintain payroll data across systems
- Liaise with HMRC and support client communications
- Assist with CIS submissions and year‑end processes
- Handle payroll queries from clients and colleagues professionally
- Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records
- Audit payroll data for accuracy
- Support general administration tasks within the team
- Complete timesheets and flag any issues to the Payroll Manager
About You
This role would suit someone who is organised, eager to learn, and enjoys working as part of a team. You don’t need to know everything yet—what matters most is your attitude, attention to detail, and willingness to develop.
Essential
- CIPP qualification (or working towards) or proven payroll experience
- Familiarity with payroll software such as Sage 50
- Strong organisational skills and ability to meet deadlines
- Good communication skills and confidence building relationships
- A proactive and positive approach to learning
Desirable (but not essential)
- Bureau experience
- Exposure to accounts or systems such as CCH
What’s on Offer
- 20 days holiday + bank holidays
- Extra day off at Christmas
- Holiday increases with service (up to 25 days)
- Flexible working around core hours (9:30am – 4:00pm)
- Hybrid working after probation
- Medicash plan
- Online discount portal
- 24/7 employee assistance helpline
- One professional membership paid annually
- Fully funded training and qualifications
- Training bonuses for students
- Parking permit salary sacrifice
- Employee referral bonus (up to £1,500)
- Dress‑down Fridays
- Dedicated wellbeing team
Why Apply?
If you’re looking to build your payroll career in a welcoming, people‑focused firm where you can learn, grow, and make a real contribution from day one, this could be the perfect next step.
Closing date 30th May 2026
Payroll Administrator employer: HAWK3 Talent Solutions
Contact Detail:
HAWK3 Talent Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Administrator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the payroll industry on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common payroll questions and scenarios. We recommend role-playing with a friend or family member to build your confidence and get comfortable discussing your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your enthusiasm! When you get an interview, let your passion for payroll shine through. Talk about why you love the field and how you’re eager to learn and grow within the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Administrator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Payroll Administrator role. Highlight any relevant payroll experience or qualifications, like your CIPP status, to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you’re excited about this opportunity and how your proactive attitude and attention to detail will contribute to our team. Let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since we value collaboration, mention any past experiences where you worked well in a team. We want to see how you can contribute to our friendly and supportive culture!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at HAWK3 Talent Solutions
✨Know Your Payroll Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your payroll knowledge. Familiarise yourself with key terms like RTI, National Insurance, and auto-enrolment. This will show that you're serious about the role and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a Payroll Administrator, being organised is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've managed deadlines or handled multiple tasks in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a busy environment and meet the demands of the job.
✨Communicate Confidently
Practice your communication skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you would handle payroll queries or liaise with clients. Clear and confident communication is key in this role, so make sure you convey your thoughts effectively.
✨Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn
The company values a proactive approach to learning. Share your enthusiasm for developing your skills and mention any relevant training or qualifications you’re pursuing. This will highlight your commitment to growth within the payroll field.