Overview
Human Resources Payroll Administrator Jobs in Johannesburg, South Africa at PKF Octagon
Strategic Role Objective
To ensure the accurate, compliant, and timely processing of all payroll-related activities while supporting the integrity of employee data, remuneration practices, and reporting processes. This role plays a key part in maintaining employee trust, audit readiness, and operational excellence across the organisation’s payroll and benefits administration.
Main responsibilities and accountabilities:
Payroll Processing
Prepare, process, and reconcile monthly payroll runs for all employees (salaried and contract) using the company’s payroll software
Capture and verify all variable inputs (overtime, commissions, bonuses, deductions, leave adjustments)
Ensure timely submission of payroll to finance for payment and maintain all supporting records
Compliance & Statutory Submissions
Administer statutory deductions (PAYE, UIF, SDL, and pension/provident fund contributions)
Submit monthly EMP
201 declarations and coordinate with external accountants for EMP
501 biannual submissions
Keep abreast of changes to tax legislation, SARS requirements, and ensure payroll processes remain compliant
Employee Support & Data Management
Serve as the first point of contact for payroll-related queries from employees, resolving issues with discretion and professionalism
Maintain accurate employee records (contracts, benefits, terminations, etc.) and ensure confidentiality of all personal and financial information
Support the onboarding and offboarding processes with payroll-related documentation and setup
Reporting & Analysis
Generate monthly payroll reports for People & Culture and Finance, including salary breakdowns, headcount costing, and leave liabilities
Assist in salary benchmarking and audit preparations when needed
Identify and recommend improvements to payroll processes and controls
Collaboration & Special Projects
Collaborate with HR and Finance teams to align payroll with talent management, benefits, and performance incentives
Participate in projects such as digital system rollouts, reward audits, and process optimisation initiatives
Contribute to building a compliant, ethical, and employee-centric reward culture
Preferred Qualifications
Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Payroll Administration, Human Resources, Accounting, or related field
Professional Certification in Payroll (e.g., South African Payroll Association – SAPA) is advantageous
Minimum of 4–6 years’ experience in a payroll function, preferably in a mid-sized professional services or corporate environment
Familiarity with South African payroll systems (Sage, Simple Pay, Pay Space, etc.)
Skills and Competencies:
Technical
Payroll processing
Excel proficiency
HRIS / payroll software
Tax calculations
Compliance
Knowledge of BCEA, SARS, UIF, SDL and retirement fund legislation
Personal Competencies:
Analytical – Accuracy, attention to detail, problem-solving, data reconciliation
Communication – Clear, tactful communication with employees and external stakeholders
Professionalism – Confidentiality, reliability, discretion, trustworthiness
Organisational – Time management, task prioritisation, process ownership
Collaboration – Ability to work across People, Finance, and external providers
Contract Terms
Working Hours: 15-20 hours per month
Title: Human Resources Payroll Administrator
Company: PKF Octagon
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Category: HR/Recruitment (Regulatory Compliance Specialist, HR Manager)
