Help shape the future of Education
We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes.
Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our learners in our education system.
About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga
The Payroll Specialist plays a vital role in ensuring Ministry employees are paid accurately and on time. Working within the Payroll team, you'll provide high-quality payroll administration, advice, and support in a complex and fast-paced environment.
You'll be responsible for a wide range of payroll activities, including payroll calculations, one-off payments, leave administration, terminations, ACC management, overpayments, and responding to payroll enquiries. You'll also contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and help maintain the integrity and efficiency of payroll processes and systems.
This role requires a strong customer focus, attention to detail, sound judgement, and the ability to interpret and apply payroll-related legislation, policies, and employment agreements.
Salary range: $66,801 - $80,195 per annum plus KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.
For more details about the role, you can view theJob Description here.
About you | Mōhou ake
We're looking for an experienced payroll professional who enjoys delivering excellent customer service and building positive working relationships across an organisation. You'll be confident working with detailed information, interpreting employment agreements and legislation, and resolving complex payroll queries.
Ideally you will possess:
- Experience working in payroll within a complex organisation and high-volume environment.
- Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, including the Holidays Act, Employment Relations Act, and Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act.
- Experience using HR and payroll systems, ideally SuccessFactors, along with strong numeracy and payroll calculation skills.
- Excellent communication and relationship management skills, with a commitment to continuous improvement and customer service excellence.
- Strong attention to detail, sound organisational skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities.
- The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
You'll join a collaborative and supportive team that values knowledge sharing, continuous learning, and delivering high-quality outcomes. This is a great opportunity to use your payroll expertise to make a meaningful contribution while continuing to develop your professional capability.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
Te Pou Rangatōpū | Corporate enables the Ministry to deliver on its purpose by providing high-quality corporate services and support. Within this group, the Payroll team is committed to delivering accurate, responsive, and customer-focused payroll services to Ministry employees and stakeholders.
The team works closely with colleagues across People Services Team and is made up of a diverse group of people, committed to efficient processes that are practical, providing great customer service and having fun while we’re at it. You’ll be joining a team who help each other out, love learning and manage flexibility well.
Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?
If this opportunity interests you, please submit your Cover Letter and Resume by using the 'Apply' button. In your Cover Letter we'd like to know about you, your values, or anything else you'd like to share. We're keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.
For further information, please contact Ditas Tirados, Team Leader Payroll at: ditas.tirados@education.govt.nz
Applications close Midnight – Sunday 7 September 2026.
We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.
