At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage high-volume payroll processing with accuracy and compliance for 180+ staff.
- Company: Join a well-established organisation in the public services sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working options, and supportive team environment.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace encouraging applications from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by ensuring timely payroll delivery in a fast-paced setting.
- Qualifications: Experience with iTrent and processing 180+ payments monthly is essential.
Merrifield Consultants are delighted to be partnering with a well-established organisation within the public services sector to recruit a confident and highly capable Payroll Officer for an immediate start.
Summary of the role
This is a fast-paced payroll position requiring someone who can independently manage high-volume monthly processing with accuracy and confidence. You will take full ownership of payroll operations, ensuring timely and compliant delivery. Ideal for a proactive payroll professional who thrives in structured processes and understands the demands of a 24/7 workforce.
Details of the role
We are seeking an experienced Payroll Officer who has single-handedly processed at least 180 payments per month and is fully proficient in iTrent. You will join a supportive team environment but will be trusted to manage your own workload, applying strong judgement, attention to detail and a solutions-focused approach. This role suits someone from a services-based or shift-pattern environment, where accuracy, pace and consistency are essential.
Salary: £30,000 - £40,000 (dependent on experience)
Contract: 3-month temporary assignment
Working week: 37.5 hours p/w
Start: ASAP
Location: London
Hybrid: Ideally 3 days in the office, but 2 or even 1 day can be accommodated for the right candidate
Responsibilities
- Payroll processing - Independently manage end-to-end monthly payroll for 180+ staff, ensuring accuracy and compliance
- iTrent management - Maintain and update payroll records, workflows and reporting within iTrent
- Data reconciliation - Reconcile timesheets, shift patterns and variable pay elements across a 24/7 workforce
- Compliance oversight - Ensure alignment with statutory requirements, internal controls and audit standards
- Query resolution - Act as first point of contact for payroll queries, providing timely and accurate responses
- Process improvement - Identify opportunities to streamline workflows and strengthen payroll accuracy
Person specification
Essential
- iTrent experience
- Proven experience processing 180+ payments per month single-handedly
- Attention to detail
- Clear, professional and confident communication skills
Desirable
- Sector understanding background in services, healthcare, facilities, security or any 24/7 shift-based environment
If you are an experienced Payroll Officer with strong iTrent capability and the ability to manage high-volume processing independently, we would love to hear from you. Please apply today to be considered.
We practice a diverse and inclusive recruitment process that ensures equal opportunity for all we work with, irrespective of race, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, age or gender. As an organisation, we encourage applications from all backgrounds and will ensure measures are met when required, to allow a fair process throughout.
Payroll Officer in London employer: Merrifield Consultants
Merrifield Consultants is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values accuracy and independence in payroll operations. With opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to diversity, employees can thrive in a dynamic environment while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid working model in the vibrant city of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Officer in London
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at Merrifield Consultants and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at Merrifield Consultants. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Merrifield Consultants
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Merrifield Consultants, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that Merrifield Consultants uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at Merrifield Consultants.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at Merrifield Consultants.
