Payroll & Benefits Administrator - Ayrshire

40000 - Payroll Specialist
Ref: 519 Date Posted: Monday 23 Mar 2026

Payroll & Benefits Administrator

Kilmarnock

Hybrid

We’re working with a well-established, values-led organisation to appoint a Payroll & Benefits Administrator into their collaborative HR team.

This is a really strong opportunity for someone who enjoys taking ownership of payroll but is also keen to broaden their experience across benefits, reward and continuous improvement.

The opportunity

This isn’t a “business as usual” payroll role.

While payroll sits at the core, the position has been designed to be broader and more forward-looking, giving you the opportunity to:

  • take full ownership of payroll delivery
  • influence how processes evolve
  • and play a part in shaping the benefits offering

You’ll be joining a close-knit HR team where there’s a genuine sense of collaboration, and where ideas and improvements are actively encouraged.

What you’ll be doing

  • Managing monthly UK payroll (circa 300+ employees) in partnership with a third-party provider
  • Processing payroll changes including starters, leavers, salary changes and statutory payments
  • Validating payroll outputs and ensuring accuracy and compliance
  • Acting as a key point of contact for payroll queries
  • Supporting the administration and ongoing review of employee benefits
  • Analysing payroll and benefits data to identify trends and opportunities
  • Identifying and implementing process improvements
  • Working closely with HR and Finance to ensure a smooth, joined-up approach

What we’re looking for

  • Strong experience within UK payroll, with confidence to take ownership
  • Good understanding of payroll legislation and compliance
  • Experience working with third-party payroll providers
  • High attention to detail and ability to manage deadlines
  • Comfortable working with HR systems (Workday experience would be beneficial)
  • A proactive mindset — someone who looks to improve processes, not just follow them

Experience within benefits or pensions is advantageous, but not essential.

The kind of person who will thrive

This role would suit someone who:

  • enjoys being hands-on and accountable for their area
  • is naturally curious and open to improving how things are done
  • takes a people-first approach to payroll and HR
  • is keen to develop further within benefits and reward

Working environment

  • Hybrid working (typically 3 days onsite, 2 from home)
  • Flexibility around start and finish times
  • Supportive, down-to-earth culture with a strong team ethos
  • A modern, professional office environment with a focus on wellbeing

Why consider this role?

It’s a great opportunity to step into a role where you can:

  • make a visible impact
  • broaden your skillset beyond payroll
  • and be part of a team that genuinely values collaboration and ideas

If you’d like to find out more, feel free to get in touch for a confidential conversation! Contact Lynne lynne.friel@symedrummond.co.uk for more information.