Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our HR & Payroll team to process payroll for schools and trusts.
- Company: We support educational institutions with accurate payroll services.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team while making a real impact in education.
- Qualifications: Experience in payroll processing and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Free parking and your birthday off work!
Job Title: Payroll Officer
If you are interested in applying for this job, please make sure you meet the following requirements as listed below.
Location: West Midlands (hybrid role after probation)
Salary: £28,000 – £32,000 (flexible)
Start Date: ASAP
Working Structure: Office-based during probation (6 months), then hybrid 3/2 split
Type: Full Time – Permanent
The Role
We are looking for an experienced Payroll Officer to join our busy HR & Payroll team. This is a key role, supporting schools and academy trusts by delivering accurate and timely payroll services.
You will work as part of a supportive team, processing payroll for a high volume of employees and ensuring compliance with legislation, policies, and deadlines. Strong communication skills are essential, as you’ll be advising schools, trusts, and employees while maintaining excellent working relationships.
Key Responsibilities
Processing, calculating, and inputting payroll changes in line with policies and statutory requirements
Managing statutory payments and deductions
Checking and validating payroll transactions
Producing and distributing payroll and pension reports
Liaising with third parties as required
Providing payroll advice and support to schools, trusts, and employees
About You
Proven experience in processing monthly payroll (ideally in education or a similar high-volume environment)
Excellent organisational and communication skills
Strong attention to detail and accuracy under pressure
Ability to meet tight deadlines in a busy environment
Flexible approach to service delivery
A positive, team-focused attitude
What We Offer
Competitive salary (£28,000 – £32,000)
Hybrid working after probation (3 office / 2 remote)
Strong commitment to training, CPD, and career development
Supportive environment with opportunities to work independently
Free parking and your birthday off work
Benefits package including:
Company pension
Employee assistance programme
Staff discounts scheme
Free/on-site parking
Payroll Officer employer: JGA Recruitment
Contact Detail:
JGA Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with payroll software commonly used in the education sector. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in these tools during the interview can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your knowledge of payroll legislation and compliance requirements specific to schools and academy trusts. This will show that you understand the unique challenges of the role and are ready to tackle them.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed payroll processes in high-volume environments. Be ready to discuss any challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will highlight your problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the HR and payroll field, especially those working in education. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals or recommendations.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in payroll processing, especially in high-volume environments like education. Use specific examples to demonstrate your organisational skills and attention to detail.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the Payroll Officer role and explain how your skills align with the job requirements. Mention your ability to meet tight deadlines and your experience in providing payroll advice.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on roles where you managed payroll processes. Include any experience with statutory payments and compliance to show you understand the legal aspects of payroll.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, as accuracy is crucial in payroll roles. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at JGA Recruitment
✨Know Your Payroll Basics
Make sure you brush up on your payroll knowledge before the interview. Understand key concepts like statutory payments, deductions, and compliance with legislation. This will show that you're not only experienced but also genuinely interested in the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Since strong communication skills are essential for this position, prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with colleagues or clients in the past. Think about situations where you had to explain complex payroll issues clearly.
✨Highlight Your Attention to Detail
In payroll, accuracy is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you ensure precision in your work, especially when processing high volumes of payroll. You might want to share specific instances where your attention to detail made a difference.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role requires a positive, team-focused attitude. Prepare to talk about your experiences working in a team environment, particularly in high-pressure situations. Emphasise how you contribute to a supportive atmosphere and help your team succeed.
