Payroll Officer – Hybrid, London (Temporary)

About the role

This temporary position supports a busy payroll function for a large local government workforce. The role is hybrid, based in London, and offers a rate of £30.67 per hour through an umbrella arrangement. It is ideal for an experienced payroll professional who can deliver accurate, compliant payroll services.

Key responsibilities

• Process payroll transactions accurately in line with legislation, policies and procedures.
• Administer statutory and contractual payments such as SSP, SMP, SPP and other payroll‑related payments.
• Handle starters, leavers, pay awards, increments and manual payments.
• Calculate and process pension contributions across multiple schemes, including LGPS and Teachers' Pension schemes.
• Provide specialist payroll advice to employees, managers, schools and external stakeholders.
• Resolve payroll queries via email, telephone and service‑desk systems within agreed service levels.
• Check payroll data for accuracy, investigate discrepancies and support reconciliations.
• Liaise with HMRC, pension providers, external bodies and internal departments as required.
• Assist with process improvements to enhance efficiency and service delivery.

Required profile

• Previous payroll experience within a local government environment.
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, including PAYE, National Insurance, SSP, SMP and pensions.
• Experience processing end‑to‑end payroll for a large, complex organisation.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to meet strict payroll deadlines.
• Strong communication skills for providing payroll advice to stakeholders at all levels.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hybrid working pattern.
• £30.67 per hour via umbrella.
• 3‑month fixed‑term contract.
• Immediate start date.