Understand the job: payroll clerk

What does a payroll clerk do?

Anyone looking to fill a position in payroll will be pleased to know there are a number of specialist workers in this busy sector, with roles that cover a broad range from payroll administrator to payroll manager.

One such role is a payroll clerk. This individual has a number of important tasks to perform relating to the payment of employees. These tasks include things like expenses, bonuses and wage deductions.

For example, at routine intervals a payroll clerk will collate attendance records with the company accounts. As a part of this task a payroll clerk will make any relevant alteration to salaries or wages resulting from fluctuations in attendance.

When is a payroll clerk needed?

When you want to hire the best candidate for your company, it is essential to learn about the times when you may rely on a payroll clerk in detail.

In the workplace there are many situations where a payroll clerk will be called in to action, some of these are quite general while others are very specific. Let us take a look at some examples:

• Extended absence from work – If an employee is away from work for an extended time due to illness, injury or bereavement, then they may receive a reduced rate of pay. A payroll clerk will complete this task in line with company policy and the requirements of the law
• An employee working paid overtime – Overtime pay is not always available and varies between companies. If your business does offer overtime, a payroll clerk will usually be responsible for payments
• Maternity or paternity leave – If an employee receives a different rate of pay during paternity or maternity leave, a payroll clerk will normally make these alterations
• Expenses – Where employees are entitled to expenses or other benefits, for example travel costs, a payroll clerk will balance receipts from employees and the company accounts

When you understand the core responsibilities of a payroll clerk, what the job is, and what duties they undertake, then you are ready to prepare relevant interview questions. Your questions should allow the candidate to demonstrate their experience and knowledge of the role, while also giving them room to explain why their skills are relevant for the position.

Filling payroll clerk vacancies

Portfolio Payroll is the only payroll recruitment agency recommended by the Chartered Industry of Payroll Professionals (CIPP). Because of how successful we have been in filling countless payroll positions, from part time payroll jobs to permanent payroll administrator jobs your business can rely on the assistance we provide when you email recruitment@portfoliopayroll.com or call 020 7247 2882.