About Us
McDermott Aviation, headquartered in Cooroy, is Australia's largest privately-owned helicopter company. With over 40 years of experience in aerial firefighting, heavy lifting, and remote operations, we provide essential helicopter services across Australia and internationally. Our fleet includes more than 50 aircraft, and we support a team of highly skilled pilots, engineers, and support staff operating at bases throughout Australia, the USA, and Europe.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to lead our payroll operations across Australia and offshore. You will ensure accurate and compliant payroll, manage end to end payroll and drive system improvements and automation. This role offers a chance to influence strategy and support a growing, complex organisation.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead end-to-end payroll processing via Employment Hero and manage time/attendance via Humanforce.
• Mentor and develop payroll staff, fostering capability and professional growth.
• Ensure compliance with Modern Awards, EBAs, Fair Work, ATO, Superannuation, WorkCover, and multi-state Payroll Tax.
• Manage subcontractor payments and payroll allocations.
• Partner with finance, HR, rostering, and operations teams to support workforce planning and resolve complex payroll queries.
• Drive payroll system enhancements, automation, process improvements, and executive reporting.
• Develop and maintain payroll policies, procedures, and documentation.
• Monitor legislative changes and implement necessary payroll updates across systems.
• Act as a primary point of contact for auditors, regulators, and external stakeholders.
• Provide payroll analytics and insights to support strategic business decisions.
• Ensure a robust control environment and maintain payroll data privacy and security.
About You
• 8+ years' payroll experience, including 3+ years in senior leadership.
• Proven experience with Humanforce, Employment Hero, or similar systems.
• Strong knowledge of governance, compliance, Modern Awards, and complex remuneration structures.
• Excellent leadership, stakeholder management, and analytical skills.
• Professional and solutions-oriented under pressure.
• Experience in aviation, FIFO, emergency services, or construction payroll highly regarded.
Why Join Us
Join McDermott Aviation and lead payroll excellence in a growing, multi-site aviation company. Deliver accurate, timely payroll while shaping process improvements, compliance frameworks, and reporting insights that directly impact business decisions.