Overview
St Hilda's School, Gold Coast, Queensland invites applications for the position of Part Time Payroll Manager (0.6 FTE), commencing February 2026.
The Payroll Manager will lead and continuously improve the payroll function across St Hilda's School and the associated Early Learning Centre. The role ensures the accurate and compliant delivery of end-to-end payroll services, while driving strategic improvements in payroll systems, processes and reporting.
Reporting to the Director of Business and Operations, within the Finance team, the Payroll Manager will demonstrate a deep understanding of payroll legislation, advanced analytical capabilities and a proactive approach to change management.
Responsibilities
Oversee all aspects of payroll operations for a diverse workforce including teaching, non-teaching, boarding, coaches, and Early Learning Centre staff. Manage end-to-end payroll using the TASS platform, maintain compliance with Fair Work, ATO and superannuation legislation, and lead the transition to automated timesheet systems across staff categories. Prepare and maintain salary and FTE budgets and forecasts, provide detailed analysis and variance reporting, and act as the primary point of contact for payroll-related queries. Mentoring of the Payroll Officer to deliver accurate and timely payroll outcomes.
Work with senior leaders (Director of Business and Operations, Finance Manager, and Principal) to ensure operational excellence and strategic payroll improvements, while staying ahead of legislative changes to maintain compliance and best-practice payroll standards.
Selection Criteria / Qualifications
* Technical Expertise and Systems: Demonstrated high-level experience in managing complex payroll functions, preferably within the education or not-for-profit sector, with proficiency in electronic payroll systems.
* Compliance and Data Management: Proven ability to conduct payroll audits, perform detailed analysis and variance reporting, and manage sensitive data with discretion and accuracy.
* Leadership and Process Improvement: Demonstrated capacity to lead process improvement and change initiatives in complex payroll systems and functions.
* Communication and Stakeholder Management: Ability to provide clear, confidential advice on complex payroll matters to leadership and staff, with strong customer service orientation and a solution-focused approach.
* Educational Qualifications and Experience: At least one of the following certifications: Australian Payroll Association (APA) Certification, Certificate IV in Payroll Administration or Diploma of Payroll Services (TPB-approved). Tertiary qualifications in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related discipline are preferred but not essential.
Why Join St Hilda's School?
Be part of a values-driven community that embraces collaboration and innovation, and supports staff wellbeing and professional growth. We offer staff access to the school gym, an employee assistance program, professional development opportunities, and onsite co-located Early Learning Centre at reasonable rates for staff with young families. Applicants must be willing to uphold the School's Code of Conduct and Anglican Ethos.
The successful applicant must hold a current Working with Children Check (Blue Card) or be eligible to obtain one prior to appointment and be willing to have their name submitted to the Anglican Church's Professional Standards Register.
Application Requirements
Please submit the following:
* A maximum two-page A4 written response addressing the selection criteria
* A full Curriculum Vitae, including contact details for two professional referees
Applications should be submitted by 4.00pm Thursday 19 February 2026. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. St Hilda's School reserves the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date.
For questions about the position, please contact Melanie Cowan, People and Culture Manager, at mcowan@sthildas.qld.edu.au or (07) 5532 4922. Please do not submit applications to Melanie Cowan directly.
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