Associate Payroll Administrator

AQA


Date: 10 hours ago
City: Manchester, England
Contract type: Full time
At AQA, we’re committed to advancing education and we’re committed to our people. As the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK, we mark over 10 million exam papers each year and it’s our people who make this happen.

Payroll Administrator

Permanent

Manchester: £23,530 - £26,670

Hybrid Working

Think your attention to detail could help pay up to 40,000 Exam Board Associates on time?

Imagine being the go-to expert for payroll accuracy and compliance.

Ready to make a measurable impact in a high-trust environment?

At AQA, we know that accurate payroll is more than just numbers—it’s about trust, precision, and service. If you're confident with payroll systems and spreadsheets and thrive on getting things right first time, this could be your next step.

As a Payroll Administrator, you’ll be part of a team responsible for delivering timely and accurate payroll services to our Associates (Examiner, Moderators) on a weekly basis. You’ll handle everything from processing starters and leavers to managing Associate expenses and ensuring compliance with PAYE, NIC, pensions, and auto-enrolment regulations. You’ll also be the first point of contact for payroll queries, working closely with internal teams and external partners like MHR Global.

You’ll gain exposure to a wide range of payroll processes, contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, and play a key role in safeguarding data and financial accuracy — while also handling enquiries and providing clear, timely support to stakeholders.

What’s in it for me?

  • Opportunities for personal and professional growth
  • A generous pension scheme with combined contributions up to 18.5% from day one
  • 25 days annual leave (rising with service), plus Bank Holidays and Christmas closure
  • Hybrid working at least two office days per week (Manchester-based role)
  • A newly refurbished office with a gym, games room, and yoga studio

What do I need to be successful?

  • Demonstrable experience in end-to-end payroll processing
  • A good understanding of PAYE, NIC, pensions, and payroll legislation
  • Proficiency in Excel and payroll systems (e.g. SAGE)
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills
  • High level of accuracy and numeracy

Ready to apply?

Whether you're looking to grow your expertise or bring your payroll skills to a new setting, we’d love to hear from you. Read the full job description, then upload your most recent CV along with a cover letter explaining why your skills and experience make you the perfect fit for this role.

You could wait until applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 13th July to apply, but we will be interviewing as applications come in and reserve the right to close the advert early should we find the right person, so apply today.

Interviews will be held face to face in the Manchester office from week beginning 21st July.

All applications will receive a response.

AQA is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone—regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background—is valued, respected, and supported to thrive.

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