Payroll Officer

An opportunity has arisen within the Payroll and Pension team in the People & Organisational Development department, for a permanent full-time Payroll Officer and a part time, fixed term Payroll Officer to join our team to help ensure accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing for our employees at Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service. 

Duties of the role:

As a Payroll Officer, you will be responsible for day-to-day administration of all payroll and pension activities, validation of all manual and computerised transactions and calculations and the general provision of a quality service to all CFRS employees, pensioners, Members and with various external agencies.

You will role model our Core Values and ensure the provision of a customer focused service to the organisation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Update and maintain payroll systems and employee records, carrying out data cleansing/spot checks as necessary

• Input and process the monthly payroll for approx. 800 employees across multiple departments/locations, having differing pay, terms and conditions, including overtime, mileage, expenses and allowances

• Ensure payroll changes submitted by payroll deadlines are checked and implemented in an accurate and timely manner

• Act as the primary point of contact for payroll and pension related queries, with a customer focused approach whether in person, telephone or email queries

• Complete pension related forms and transfer information to relevant Pension Scheme providers within current pay cycle.   

• Run standard and ad-hoc system reports and distribute accordingly in accordance with GDPR regulations.

• Administering salary deductions through salary sacrifice and other deductions from pay in accordance with statutory or voluntary compliance is met

• Provide support for internal/external audits producing documents and checks as requested

• Liaise with HR, Finance and other departments both internal and external providers where necessary regarding pay or pension related information

• Identify opportunities for payroll process improvements

Skills & Qualifications:

• Educated to Level 3 in a payroll related subject, i.e. CIPP Payroll Technicians Certificate or significant experience in a payroll position

• Ability to investigate payroll, pension or systems queries and escalate when necessary.

• Methodical approach and strong attention to detail and excellent numerical skills

• Effective written and verbal communication skills to be able to explain sensitive payroll information to employees and managers

• Strong interpersonal skills with ability to instil confidence and gain credibility with others.

• Strong organisational and time management skills, able to plan and re-prioritise work to rigid or competing deadlines.

• Able to work independently, but also as part of the team to ensure deadlines are met.

• Proficient in the use of relevant IT packages particularly Microsoft Office/365 with Outlook and Excel being main focus

To apply, please complete the job application form and provide evidence of competency against the requirements of the attached job description.

CFRS offers an excellent benefits package to all our staff including a Local Government Pension Scheme, attractive holiday entitlement, training and development opportunities and access to free parking and on-site gym.

Further information, a full job description and application form can be found below, or alternatively contact the Recruitment Team at recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Please ensure you read the Application guidance notes before completing your application.

Please return completed application forms via email stating whether you are applying for the full time permanent, part time fixed term, or both positions to: recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Job description

Application guidance notes

Application form

Please quote job reference 40/26/PO on your application form.

Closing date for applications: 9:00am Monday 9^th November 2026

Workplace adjustments and accommodations

It is important that you consider at an early stage of the process if you would like to request arrangements that will assist you in completing the selection process. For example, in relation to disability; a neurodiverse condition such as dyslexia; pregnancy; religion or belief; or injury etc. Any requests for workplace adjustments will be treated with the utmost confidence. For support or further information please email: recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Applications for part-time and job share working will be considered for this post.

Appointment to this post is subject to a satisfactory Standard Disclosure & Barring Service check.

Please note that internal applicants must inform their Head of Department that they are applying for the role before submitting their application.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) is committed to keeping vulnerable adults, children and young people safe from harm in all of the work that CFRS undertakes. CFRS recognises that it has a legal and moral obligation to safeguard these groups of people. Furthermore, it acknowledges that the protection of vulnerable adults, children and young people from harm is the responsibility of everybody within the organisation.

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups such as women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, the LGBT+ community, people with disabilities, and those with non-traditional career paths. If you’re passionate about the role we would encourage you to apply — your unique perspective could be exactly what we’re looking for.