Payroll Administrator - Umhlanga, Durban

A leading provider of outsourced payroll solutions is currently seeking a Payroll Administrator to be based in their Umhlanga offices.

Role Overview

They are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Payroll Administrator to join their growing payroll team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a rewarding career in payroll within a fast-paced, client-focused bureau environment. You will support experienced payroll professionals in the accurate and timely processing of payroll for a range of clients, while developing your skills across South African payroll legislation, SARS compliance, and statutory requirements, including UIF, SDL, PAYE, and retirement fund contributions.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the end-to-end processing of weekly, fortnightly, and monthly payrolls for a portfolio of clients in accordance with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA).
• Input and verify employee data, including new engagements, terminations, salary changes, and variable pay elements such as overtime, allowances, and commissions.
• Calculate and process statutory deductions accurately, including PAYE (Pay-As-You-Earn), UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund), and SDL (Skills Development Levy) in line with SARS requirements.
• Process leave in accordance with the BCEA, including annual leave, sick leave, family responsibility leave, and maternity leave entitlements.
• Calculate termination payments correctly, including pro-rata leave, severance pay in line with the Labour Relations Act (LRA), and notice pay as required.
• Prepare and submit monthly EMP201 returns and ensure timely payment of PAYE, UIF, and SDL to SARS.
• Assist with bi-annual EMP501 reconciliations and the annual IRP5/IT3(a) certificate process.
• Process and administer retirement fund contributions (pension and provident funds) and medical aid deductions accurately.
• Administer garnishee orders and maintenance orders in compliance with applicable court orders and legislation.
• Ensure payroll processing aligns with relevant bargaining council agreements and sectoral determinations where applicable.
• Reconcile payroll data and produce client payroll reports for sign-off before payment runs.
• Respond to client and employee payroll queries in a professional and timely manner.
• Maintain accurate payroll records in line with POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act) requirements.
• Stay current with changes to South African tax legislation, SARS rulings, and labour law amendments.
• Design, implement and monitor controls relating to the payroll function.

Essential Requirements

• Matric (National Senior Certificate) with Mathematics or Accounting.
• Strong numerical ability and high attention to detail.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
• Solid understanding of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA).
• Basic knowledge of SARS PAYE, UIF, and SDL requirements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional, client-focused attitude with strong ethics around confidentiality.

Desirable

• Diploma or degree in Payroll Administration, HR, Finance, or Accounting.
• Studying towards or holding a SAPA (South African Payroll Association) qualification.
• Previous experience in a payroll or finance administration role.
• Familiarity with payroll software such as Sim[ple Pay, Sage 300 People, VIP Payroll, or PaySpace.
• Experience working in an outsourced or bureau payroll environment.
• Knowledge of retirement fund regulations under the Pension Funds Act.
• Understanding of Employment Equity Act (EEA) reporting obligations.
• Familiarity with bargaining council agreements and sectoral determinations.

Candidates that meet the criteria may submit their applications via this portal or via vacancy link on
Should you receive no feedback within 7 days, please accept your application as unsuccessful.