Payroll Officer

• Play a critical role in the timely and accurate processing of payroll
• Full time continuing opportunity based at our Callaghan Campus
• 17% super, generous annual, personal, and life leave, wellbeing programs, health and fitness discounts
• Hybrid role

Be challenged and imagine with us

For this newly created position, we are seeking an experienced Payroll Officer to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will perform a range of critical roles to ensure the timely and accurate processing of fortnightly payroll for University employees. You will also be responsible for providing advice for a wide variety of queries relating to salary, wages, allowances, leave, taxation, deductions, and enterprise agreement interpretation.

In this role you will:

• Play a pivotal role in the in the production of the fortnightly payroll for University employees.
• Process payroll deductions, manual timesheets, and other payroll related variances.
• Conduct payroll data reporting to ensure accuracy and audit requirements are met.
• Provide responsive and accurate advice on payroll matters, including interpretation of enterprise agreements and relevant legislation.

This continuing position is full time and will be located at the Callaghan Campus (Awabakal and Worimi land).

How will you inspire us?

You will have:

• Demonstrated experience in end-to-end payroll processing within a complex organisation.
• Strong knowledge of payroll related legislation, taxation and enterprise agreements. 
• Proficiency in utilising various technical payroll systems and procedures.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to resolve complex payroll issues efficiently.

 What we offer

The remuneration for this position is from $93,929 to $103,641 + 17% superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience. 

We offer a range of benefits and employment conditions that help you balance your commitments, stay healthy, and work effectively. For information on our employee benefits (such as leave, flexible working, discounts in private health insurance and gym memberships, and salary packaging) please visit here.  

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision are our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability.

We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do. 

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.  

Your next steps

Important information before you apply:

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role.

• If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ (or equivalent) to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy from the Related Documents section before commencing your application.
• Due to the nature of this role, the University may require the preferred candidate to undertake further pre-employment checks.
• Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit.

Your application:

Your application must include:

• Your resume.
• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity.
• A statement addressing the Essential Criteria listed below (these may differ slightly from the Position Description, please only respond to the below in your application).

1. A degree and subsequent relevant payroll experience; or extensive payroll experience and specialist expertise or a combination of relevant experience and/or education/training in Payroll.
2. Demonstrated proven experience within a high volume computerised payroll environment.
3. Demonstrated ability in problem solving, accuracy and working to deadlines.
4. Highly developed interpersonal, communication, and consultative skills.

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document. This document should not exceed 4 pages (approximately 2,000 words).

Our assessment process

Typically candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process:

• Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process)
• Referee checks
• Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role 

Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive. 

As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes. 

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University. 

Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance—it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable.

 Contact Us

For specific position enquiries, please contact Michelle Lorello, Acting Senior Manager, Remuneration and Benefits, on (02) 4921 6494 or via email Michelle.Lorello@newcastle.edu.au

Having technical difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au Please note, we do not accept email applications.

Closing date: Sunday 8^th February 2026 at 11.59pm AEDT

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

 #LI-KG1