Senior Payroll Specialist

About KBR

KBR delivers innovative science, technology, and engineering solutions worldwide, supporting governments and companies across over 80 countries with 38,000 employees globally. In Australia, KBR has over 65 years of experience working on major complex projects, supporting critical infrastructure, energy transition, and national security with approximately 2,000 employees focused on safer, sustainable futures.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Senior Payroll Specialist to lead and manage payroll operations within a dynamic, complex environment. This leadership role involves overseeing a dedicated payroll team, ensuring precision and compliance in all payroll processes, and driving continuous improvements. You'll collaborate across various departments and lead payroll-related projects and system upgrades.

Key Responsibilities

• Guide and develop the payroll team to achieve high performance and excellent customer service.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of payroll cycles, including handling complex payroll elements like terminations, redundancies, adjustments, and superannuation.
• Maintain strong governance, comply with audit standards, legislation, awards, and internal controls.
• Serve as subject matter expert for payroll systems such as Workday, SAP, and Microsoft Dynamics, leading enhancements and integrations.
• Promote automation, standardization, and continuous improvement in payroll procedures.
• Build effective partnerships with People & Culture, Finance, Tax, and external suppliers.
• Provide expert guidance on payroll legislation and system changes and communicate impacts across the organization.
• Lead payroll projects, system implementations, and organizational change initiatives.
• Develop reporting, analytics, and payroll metrics to support strategic business decisions.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Substantial payroll leadership or senior specialist experience.
• Relevant qualifications in Payroll, Human Resources, Finance, or Business management.
• Proficiency and demonstrated expertise with Workday, SAP, and Microsoft Dynamics payroll platforms.
• Sound knowledge of Australian payroll legislation, taxation, superannuation, and compliance standards.
• Excellent communication skills capable of influencing stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong leadership skills with ability to manage priorities and perform under pressure.
• Analytical mindset with problem-solving capabilities and commercial awareness.
• Experience in project management, including planning, execution, and change management.
• High ethical standards with discretion and confidentiality commitment.

Benefits and Culture

• Recognition as a Great Place To Work certified organization.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Competitive remuneration with annual reviews.
• Paid parental leave entitlements.
• Income protection plans.
• Corporate rewards programs.
• Salary packaging and novated vehicle leasing options.
• Employee stock purchase plans.
• Health benefits including flu vaccinations, skin checks, and discounted private health insurance.
• Career development opportunities through online learning, mentorship, and defined career pathways.

Additional Information

This opportunity is a 12-month fixed-term contract with work locations available in Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, or Brisbane. Due to our role as a major service provider to the Australian Defence Force, successful candidates must obtain an AGSVA security clearance and comply with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

Applications will be reviewed on receipt and the position may close early once a suitable candidate is identified. Recruitment agencies are not engaged directly for this role.