Payroll Specialist

About the Role

The University of Canterbury in Ōtautahi | Christchurch, New Zealand, seeks to fill two fixed-term Payroll Specialist roles: one full-time (37.5 hours per week) and another part-time (30 hours per week) for a one-year term. These positions offer generous annual leave and opportunities for professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

As a Payroll Specialist, you will be responsible for managing the complete payroll cycle every fortnight, ensuring precision and efficiency in payroll operations. Collaborating with People and Culture Partners, managers, and staff, you will provide expert guidance and maintain compliance with relevant legislation, audits, and employment agreements. Your role will include process improvement initiatives, supporting system upgrades, and testing payroll solutions to enhance functionality.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a seasoned payroll professional adept at working in dynamic settings, with detailed knowledge of New Zealand payroll legislation and employment agreements. You will demonstrate professionalism, customer-centered service, and high accuracy standards. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure are essential.

Qualifications & Skills

• Extensive experience handling complex payrolls in medium to large organizations.
• In-depth understanding of New Zealand employment law, payroll compliance, and employment agreements.
• Proficiency using payroll systems, preferably PeopleSoft/Oracle, and advanced skills in Microsoft Excel.
• Experience in testing and implementing payroll system enhancements.
• Excellent communication skills with an ability to clarify technical details and foster strong stakeholder relationships.
• Precision in meeting deadlines and prioritizing tasks in a fast-paced workplace.
• Commitment to the University’s values emphasizing collaboration, inclusiveness, and bicultural engagement incorporating te reo Māori.

Work Environment

You will join the People and Culture team, known for their supportive, family-oriented atmosphere, providing critical payroll and HR services within the university.

Benefits and Values

The University promotes values such as manaakitanga, whanaungatanga, and tiakitanga, fostering an environment of care and excellence. Benefits include flexible work arrangements, study opportunities, generous leave policies, and competitive superannuation. The institution is dedicated to equitable access to education and community engagement.

Additional Details

• Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of New Zealand or Australia, or hold a valid New Zealand work visa.
• Applications require a cover letter and resume, submitted through the official careers portal.
• The closing date for applications is Sunday, 30 August 2026, midnight NZ time, though reviews and interviews may begin earlier.