Own our payroll function. Strengthen financial compliance. Support a values-driven organisation.
Atwea College is seeking a detail-focused Payroll Officer to play a key role in delivering accurate payroll, supporting financial operations, and contributing to system improvements and strategic insights. This role suits someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys problem-solving, and values meaningful work in an organisation that empowers people through education.
About Us
We are a progressive NFP successfully unlocking the potential in transforming lives through education for over 100 years. We have grown by 900% in just the past 20 yrs with planned growth for the future, we are indeed proud of this continued development coupled with sustainable practices in the service and difference we make to the community.
Our values of Inclusion, Integrity and Innovation shine through our people.
Year on year we continue to grow by being agile, positive, and a hands-on team.
We are seeking equally passionate people who are aligned with our values, invested in their roles, and the success of others.
Why this role makes a difference
Our organisation is genuinely committed to our values of Inclusion, Integrity and Innovation, not just in our strategic plan, yet in our day to day business as usual deliverables to our company, people and students.
About the Role
Located at our Head Office in Elermore Vale, the Payroll Officer is responsible for end to end payroll, payroll reporting, reconciliations, compliance tasks, and supporting the Financial Controller across month end, budgeting, forecasting, audits, systems optimisation, and continuous improvement.
You will also support staff through responsive communication, onboarding assistance, and participation in internal training and financial roadshows.
In this fixed term, part time (3 days per week) role, successful applicants should be able to confidently:
* Process fortnightly payroll including checks, validations, adjustments, superannuation, EA uplifts, and terminations.
* Maintain the payroll inbox and support employees with timely, accurate responses.
* Prepare payroll reports (leave liabilities, FTE), month-end journals, and payroll reconciliations.
* Conduct quarterly payroll audits and support payroll-related projects.
* Complete payroll-related reconciliations, GL journal entries, and support compliance activities.
* Assist with workers compensation, PAYG, superannuation, and other statutory requirements.
* Ensure confidentiality, accuracy, and adherence to WHS and legislative obligations.
* Support payroll reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and EA modelling.
* Prepare ATO payroll summaries, WGEA reporting, and assist with financial insights for People & Culture and leadership.
* Assist with external audits, prepare documentation, and maintain audit readiness.
* Support year-end processes including accruals, reconciliations, and acquittal statements.
* Maintain accurate data in Sage, support ERP optimisation, and contribute to process improvements.
* Support onboarding, inductions, roadshows, and provide responsive financial and payroll support across teams.
About You
* You already live by the values of Inclusion, Integrity and Innovation.
* Strong experience in payroll and general finance administration.
* High accuracy and attention to detail, with excellent organisational skills.
* A solid understanding of payroll legislation, compliance, and modern awards/EA interpretation.
* Experience with payroll or ERP systems (Sage preferred).
* Strong communication skills and a proactive, customer-focused approach.
* A commitment to continuous improvement, collaboration, and organisational values.
Atwea College requires:
* Valid NSW Working With Children Check and current National Criminal Police Record Check prior to the commencement of employment.
* Child Protection Training, or willingness to obtain.
About our PERKS
At Atwea College we offer extra cherries on top including:
* As a Not-for-Profit organisation, ability to salary package up to $15,899 tax free per FBT year.
* Perk Days (Wellbeing Leave, Board Bonus Day & a Birthday Bonus Day).
* Flexible working arrangements available (flexible start and finish times).
* Confidential 10 Paid Family and Domestic Violence days if required.
* Company paid parental and adoption leave; top up parental leave for those eligible.
Why Join Atwea?
* Opportunity to influence process improvements and system optimisation.
* Work with a collaborative team that values innovation and integrity.
* A role where your work genuinely contributes to community impact.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you're a great fit.
Please note: Our office will be closed from 19th December 2025 and all shortlisted candidates will be contacted once we return to the office from 5th January 2026.
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