Senior Operational Analyst - Payroll - Hybrid

Purpose of the job

Our client is searching for a Senior Operational Analyst to join their team in Pretoria. (Hybrid - 2 days in the office)

The Senior Operational Analyst is responsible for analysing, optimising, and supporting transactional processes within the company's ecosystem. The role focuses on ensuring the accuracy, efficiency, and reliability of high-volume data exchanges between payroll providers, insurers, medical aids, and other third‑party systems. Operating at the intersection of operations, data, and technology, the role requires strong analytical capability, advanced SQL skills, and a solid understanding of system integrations, including APIs, SFTP, and structured data formats.

• Process and validate input files received from third parties for payroll deductions.
• Confirm file layouts and ensure input data accuracy before transmission to payroll systems.
• Perform end‑to‑end checks to confirm successful data integration.
• Act as the central switch by coordinating data flow between insurers, payroll systems, and employers.

• Verify payroll output against schedules.
• Ensure all processed data is reflected accurately in output files.
• Address errors promptly and maintain audit trails for all transactions.
• Perform reconciliation of payroll deductions and compile detailed reports.
• Sound knowledge of the company's processes and systems.
• Ensure that work procedures remain current.

• Create and manage user IDs for web interfaces.
• Resolve alerts and ensure timely resolution of issues.
• Conduct threshold checks and investigate anomalies in transaction file.

• Assist with user acceptance testing (UAT) for system updates.
• Ensure proper documentation of test results for change requests.

• Log and manage change requests (JIRAs) in coordination with relevant departments.
• Track change status and communicate updates to stakeholders.

• Maintain operational documentation and payroll checklists.
• Ensure adherence to company policies and regulatory standards.
• Participate in annual audits and client visits.

• Advanced SQL (querying, joins, data validation, reconciliation, troubleshooting)
• Strong understanding of relational databases and data structures (MySQL or similar)
• Experience with SFTP and secure file‑based data exchange
• Proficiency in XML and structured data formats (JSON advantageous)
• Solid understanding of RESTful APIs and system integrations
• Knowledge of data mapping, transformation, and validation processes
• Understanding of end‑to‑end transactional workflows

• Strong analytical thinking with attention to detail in data‑heavy environments
• Ability to identify root causes of data discrepancies and system issues
• Experience working in high‑volume, time‑sensitive transactional environments
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders simultaneously
• Strong problem‑solving and investigative mindset

• Proven experience in a transactional, financial services, or payroll environment
• Hands‑on experience with SQL and data analysis
• Exposure to system integrations and data exchange processes
• Experience working with cross‑functional teams (operations, development, clients)

• Experience with API integrations and debugging
• Exposure to automation or process optimisation initiatives
• Understanding of UI/UX impacts on operational workflows
• Exposure to software development or technical environments

• Accurate and reliable processing of transactional data
• Timely resolution of operational and data‑related issues
• Seamless integration of new clients and systems
• Improved efficiency through process optimisation and automation
• Strong alignment between operations, data, and technical teams

• Matric / Grade 12.
• At least 2 years of experience in a similar data operations role.
• Knowledge of the Insurance Industry

• Strong understanding of payroll systems and data interfaces.
• Experience with third‑party premium collections and…