At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage payroll inputs, benefits administration, and support HR queries in a collaborative team.
- Company: Join a dynamic HR function within a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be the go-to expert in payroll and benefits while making a positive impact on employee experience.
- Qualifications: GCSE Maths and English, UK payroll experience, and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Enjoy a flexible work-life balance with a focus on equality and respect.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 63000 £ per year.
Salary: £45,000
Location: Oxford
Contract: 12 month maternity cover – Full-Time
Hybrid: 2 days per week in the office
We are looking for a capable and detail focused Payroll & Benefits Officer to join a small, collaborative HR function on a fixed term basis. This role supports the delivery of payroll, benefits and core HR administration across a UK workforce, alongside a smaller international employee population.
While payroll processing is outsourced, this position retains full ownership of payroll inputs, system updates and post processing checks. You will act as the internal expert, ensuring accuracy, compliance and a positive employee experience.
Key responsibilities:
- Prepare, review and submit all monthly payroll data to external payroll providers in line with agreed schedules
- Upload and maintain payroll information within HR and payroll systems, ensuring data integrity at all times
- Review payroll outputs following provider processing, identifying and resolving discrepancies prior to approval
- Manage payroll control reports and coordinate internal sign off
- Work closely with Finance and external providers to ensure payroll and reporting requirements are met
- Maintain accurate benefit records and support employees with enrolment and ongoing benefit queries
- Coordinate benefit renewal activity and support employee engagement initiatives related to reward and benefits
- Supply pay and benefit data to third party reward and reporting providers as required
- Maintain accurate employee records within HR systems and electronic files
- Prepare documentation to support employee changes, confirmations and references
- Act as the first point of contact for routine HR and payroll queries via the shared HR inbox
Skills and experience required:
- GCSE level Maths and English as a minimum
- Demonstrable end to end UK payroll experience, ideally within an outsourced payroll model
- A recognised payroll qualification would be advantageous
- Up to date working knowledge of UK payroll legislation, with a commitment to ongoing learning
- Confidence supporting employees with basic pay, tax, pension and National Insurance queries
- Competent user of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
- Analytical mindset with the ability to identify issues and implement practical solutions
- Clear, professional communication skills, including the ability to provide precise instructions to payroll providers
- Proactive, service focused approach with a strong sense of confidentiality and integrity
Payroll & Benefits Officer in Oxford employer: JGA Recruitment
Contact Detail:
JGA Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll & Benefits Officer in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR and payroll sectors. 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 brushing up on your payroll knowledge. Be ready to discuss UK payroll legislation and demonstrate your analytical skills. Show them you’re the expert they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds and show your enthusiasm for the role. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Payroll & Benefits Officer role. We’re all about making the application process smooth and straightforward, so don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll & Benefits Officer in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Payroll & Benefits Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially any end-to-end UK payroll experience and your knowledge of payroll legislation. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your skills align with what we’re looking for. Keep it professional but let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to highlight your analytical mindset and communication skills in your application. We love candidates who can identify issues and provide clear instructions, so make sure to give examples of these abilities!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at JGA Recruitment
✨Know Your Payroll Basics
Make sure you brush up on your UK payroll legislation and processes. Familiarise yourself with common payroll terms and practices, as well as the specific responsibilities of the Payroll & Benefits Officer role. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
Since this role requires a keen eye for accuracy, prepare examples from your past experience where your attention to detail made a difference. Whether it’s spotting discrepancies in payroll data or ensuring compliance, having concrete examples ready will impress your interviewers.
✨Prepare for HR Queries
As the first point of contact for HR and payroll queries, be ready to discuss how you would handle common employee questions about pay, tax, and benefits. Think about how you can communicate complex information clearly and supportively, as this is key to providing a positive employee experience.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you've identified issues in payroll processes and implemented solutions in the past. Highlight any experience you have with payroll control reports and how you’ve used data to improve efficiency or accuracy. This will show that you can think critically and proactively in the role.