Your Role in Summary

If you’re searching for career security plus experience in a major state-owned enterprise, this two-year Payroll Officer role offers what you need. The position is full-time and fixed-term, requiring a diploma (NQF 6) in Human Resource Management, Administration, Social Science, or Finance, alongside 2-3 years of payroll experience. The employer values familiarity with SAGE 300 and solid practical HR skills. The role includes accurate payroll processing, tax compliance, ensuring legal payroll deductions, and efficient HR support. Expect to be a linchpin between payroll accuracy and overall employee satisfaction.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities of the Payroll Officer

As a Payroll Officer, you handle payroll processing for all staff, including calculating salaries, verifying employee data, and managing deductions. Daily, you collaborate with management, assist with HR-related queries, process onboarding documentation, and ensure timeliness and accuracy across payroll runs. The job demands attention to statutory requirements like tax, UIF, overtime, and employee benefits. Proficiency in software, especially SAGE 300, and great Excel skills are vital. You’re expected to track leave, maintain employee records, and support headcount and payroll data submissions for audits and budgeting.

Key Pros of the Payroll Officer Position

This role provides a competitive work environment as part of a well-recognised organisation, perfect for solidifying your HR and payroll expertise over two years. You gain valuable exposure working with SAGE 300, broadening your proficiency with industry-standard software. There’s a clear focus on equal opportunity and diversity, ensuring your contributions are genuinely valued. Plus, the job offers consistency, with set responsibilities and a team-driven atmosphere that helps boost your professional skills and confidence.

Potential Cons to Consider

This is a fixed-term contract, which may not appeal if you seek permanent placement from the outset. Additionally, the role involves high accountability and frequent, sometimes repetitive, administrative tasks, as accuracy is paramount. You’ll need to keep up with strict compliance rules and manage the pressure of accurate monthly payroll deadlines, which can be intense, especially during auditing periods or when adopting new statutory changes.

Verdict: Is It Right for You?

If you’re looking for an HR and payroll position where process, accuracy, and growth align, this two-year Payroll Officer job is worth considering. It offers a stable, reputable environment with ample opportunities to showcase and fine-tune your skills.