Payroll Officer

East Durham College is seeking an experienced Payroll Officer toleadthe delivery of an accurate, compliant and customer-focused payroll service for our employees.

This is a key role within our HR team, offering the opportunity to take ownership of the College payroll and contribute to the smooth running of an organisation that supports thousands of learners across the region.

We are looking for a payroll professional who combines technical expertise with excellent attention to detail.

You’ll be responsible for ensuring staff are paid accurately and on time, maintaining compliance with payroll legislation, managing pension administration and providing expert support to colleagues across the College.

As Payroll Officer, you will:

• Manage and process the College's monthly payroll from start to finish.
• Administer all payroll-related changes, including starters, leavers, contractual amendments, allowances and deductions.
• Ensure compliance with HMRC requirements, PAYE, National Insurance, pensions and statutory regulations.
• Act as the main point of contact for payroll, pension and statutory payment queries.
• Produce payroll reports and management information for senior leaders and the Finance team.
• Maintain and develop payroll systems, ensuring they remain accurate, efficient and up to date.
• Work closely with HR, Finance, pension providers, auditors and external agencies.

The successful candidate will have:

• Significant payroll experience within a busy and deadline-driven environment.
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, statutory deductions and pension administration.
• Excellent organisational skills and a meticulous approach to accuracy.
• The ability to manageconfidentialinformation with professionalism and integrity.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Excel and Word.

A recognised payroll qualification, or experience equivalent to this level, would be beneficial, as would experience of Teachers' Pensions and/or the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).