Payroll and Pensions Specialist (Higher Education)

About the role

We are seeking a Payroll and Pensions Specialist to join the Employment Services Team of a leading higher‑education institution in Uxbridge. The role is full‑time for a 12‑month fixed‑term period, offering a hybrid working pattern after an initial onsite training phase.

Key responsibilities

• Act as the first point of contact for complex payroll and pensions queries.
• Support the payroll team with standard employee queries.
• Ensure accurate, timely processing of monthly payroll in line with university policies, financial regulations and statutory requirements.
• Reconcile payroll control accounts, including allowances, deductions and pension scheme contributions.
• Prepare and submit monthly BAC files to the Finance Department.
• Assist with implementation of revised pay rates, variable allowances and deductions.
• Support internal and external audits of payroll processes and manage year‑end statutory activities.
• Recover salary over‑payments and communicate with affected staff.
• Administer university pension schemes (USS, LGPS, TPS, Nest, PS) and provide guidance to employees.

Required profile

• Experience in payroll and pension administration within a large organization, preferably in higher education.
• Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation, tax regulations and pension scheme rules.
• Ability to work accurately under tight deadlines and maintain detailed audit trails.
• Excellent communication skills for interacting with staff and senior managers.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive hourly rate of £24.73‑£32.
• Hybrid working model after initial training.
• Professional development within a reputable university environment.