Payroll Administrator
Aircraft Research Association (ARA) is a unique SME and the UK’s leading independent transonic wind tunnel with a passionate workforce of engineering and aerodynamic professionals. We are a leading specialist in aerodynamic research providing complementary services and solutions to international aerospace and defence clients. Our clients include Saab, Bombardier, Boeing, Turkish Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, Comac and BAE Systems.
Typical projects include producing scaled-down military and civilian aircraft models, comprising multiple parts, which are assembled together and used as highly accurate forces/pressures measuring devices within the on-site high-speed (transonic) wind tunnel.
ARA is a unique SME originally built in the 1950s and represents some of the best engineering of the age. We are proud to have a passionate workforce of highly skilled engineering and aerodynamic professionals. We are the leading specialist in aerodynamic research providing complementary services and solutions to international aerospace and defence clients. Our clients include Saab, Bombardier, Boeing, Turkish Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, Comac and BAE Systems.
Our site in Bedford centres around our impressive transonic wind tunnel – the equipment which drives it – whilst the research performed is often unique to ARA and involves many bespoke processes. We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Payroll Administrator to join our facilities in Bedford.
Reporting to the Head of Human Resources, is responsible for ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll for all employees, maintaining compliance with statutory regulations and company policies. The role requires attention to detail, process improvement, and effective collaboration with finance, HR, and external payroll providers.
The ideal candidate will have Demonstrable experience working with payroll processes; GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English.
CIPP (Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals) qualification or equivalent experience / certification and knowledge of HRIS systems and integration with payroll would be beneficial but not essential.
Salary: £25,000 – £30,000
Typical Hours: Permanent, part time 24 hours per week / 3 days per week (job holder will be expected to be flexible around payroll cyclic activities)
This is a varied and demanding role and it involves a number of duties and responsibilities, including:
- Manage the payroll process, ensuring accuracy and compliance with legislation.
- Process timesheets in an accurate and timely manner
- Process payroll data, including salaries, bonuses, deductions, and benefits.
- Ensure compliance with HMRC regulations, pension schemes, and other statutory obligations.
- Liaise with HR and finance teams to ensure seamless payroll operations.
- Administer payroll adjustments, resolving discrepancies and employee queries.
- Maintain payroll records and ensure data security and confidentiality.
- Drive process improvements and implement best practices for payroll efficiency.
- Stay updated on payroll legislation, tax regulations, and industry changes.
What we are looking for in you
- Proven experience in payroll processing within a similar role.
- Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation, tax, NI, and pension schemes.
- Experience with payroll software (e.g., Sage, ADP, Workday, or similar) will be useful but is not essential.
- Ability to interpret and apply regulatory changes to payroll processes.
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail with proficiency in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools.
- Strong numerical and analytical skills.
- Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach.
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Our benefits:
This is an exciting permanent opportunity for the right person to be part of a successful and highly skilled engineering company. In return, we offer a range of benefits including: a competitive salary and pension scheme; free parking; optional participation in the BAE shares scheme; employee assistance programme; private health insurance and 26 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing with length of service after 5 years’ service).
The successful candidate must satisfy security clearance requirements – including the last 5 years continual UK residency.
Aircraft Research Association Ltd is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We recognise the value in an inclusive and diverse workforce and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified people.
If you think you are the person we are looking for, please complete the form below.
