Job Opportunity: Payroll Bureau Advisor (3-Month Contract)
Location: Hereford HR1
Division: Human Resources
Salary: £23,826 to £28,251 per annum
Hours: 37 per week | Flexible working (Core hours 9–5, or 8–4 option)
Hybrid Working: Typically 2 days in office, 3 from home following initial training
Optima Plus Recruitment is currently seeking a Payroll Bureau Advisor on behalf of a valued client. This is a 3-month fixed-term contract with the potential to make a meaningful impact in a busy, professional payroll environment.
The role involves delivering a high-quality, responsive HR and payroll service within the Employee Services division. You will be responsible for managing end-to-end payroll processes, ensuring compliance, supporting internal stakeholders, and maintaining a consistent, client-focused service.
Key Responsibilities:
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Act as the main point of contact for a portfolio of clients, providing expert payroll and HR administration support
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Deliver accurate and timely payroll services, including pensions and statutory payments
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Provide guidance on employment legislation, PAYE, and contractual queries
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Support monthly, quarterly, and annual invoicing processes
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Maintain system and procedural integrity through ongoing review and process improvement
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Collaborate with internal teams and stakeholders to ensure high standards and SLA adherence
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Assist with HMRC reconciliations and BACS processes
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Help onboard new employees and provide first-line customer support for HR/payroll queries
Person Specification
Essential Experience & Knowledge:
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Sound knowledge of statutory payments/deductions (Tax, NI, SMP, SPP)
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Experience handling confidential/sensitive information within HR or payroll
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Proven experience in payroll and pension administration (Local Government, NHS, Teachers’ Pensions desirable)
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Ability to advise on employment law and terms/conditions
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Experience using integrated HR/payroll systems
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Track record in delivering services to defined service levels
Skills & Abilities:
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Exceptional customer service and communication skills
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Strong organisational, numerical and analytical abilities
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Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word
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Able to work independently, prioritise tasks and meet tight deadlines
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Strong team player with a methodical, accurate approach
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Committed to continuous improvement
Qualifications & Training:
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5 GCSEs (Grades C/4 or above) including English and Maths
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2 A-level passes or equivalent experience
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CIPP Payroll Technician Certificate or equivalent is desirable
Other Requirements:
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Demonstrated commitment to delivering high-quality service
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Flexible and collaborative approach to teamwork
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Willingness to work flexibly to support business priorities
What’s on Offer?
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Immediate start with a respected public sector service
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Flexible hybrid working – balance home and office life
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Supportive team environment with ongoing development opportunities
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A role that makes a difference to hundreds of employees across sectors
Disclaimer:
Optima Plus Recruitment proudly supports the Armed Forces Covenant and is committed to ensuring those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly. We are also a Disability Confident employer, dedicated to inclusive recruitment practices and providing equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities or health conditions