Payroll Specialist

Overview AUT is bold and unapologetically different, centred on students and grounded in Knowledge that Works, driven by talented, progressive people. We are New Zealand’s newest university, ranked 5 stars by QS Universities 2025, with more than 26,000 students and a community of more than 4,000 staff across three Auckland campuses. We value collaboration, shared purpose, and the on-going development of our culture and values of Pono (fact, truth, reality, integrity), Tika (acting accordingly, doing what is needed, ethical expression), and Aroha (empathy, care, compassion). AUT offers an innovative environment where committed people work together to improve outcomes for students, communities, and the world. AUT recognises the importance of Te Tiriti, Māori and Pacific knowledge, leadership, and contribution across the university and is committed to creating environments where these communities can thrive. We embrace diversity and welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations, and accessibility needs. People and Culture at AUT People and Culture is a strategic enabler of AUT’s mission, partnering across the University to build a high-performing, inclusive, and future-focused workforce. We lift organisational performance through workforce strategy, strong leadership practices, and a people experience that helps AUT’s strategy land. Guided by our People Plan, we enable future capability, strengthen belonging, and bring our culture and values to life in everything we do. Role An exciting fixed-term opportunity (parental leave cover – 10 months) has arisen for a Payroll Specialist to deliver accurate and efficient payroll services while ensuring compliance and providing support to employees and stakeholders. Your role and contribution Proactively manage end-to-end payroll processing and administration, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and full compliance with employment legislation and employment agreements Provide clear written and verbal communications with accurate attention to detail Customer-focused approach Contribute positively to the HR Shared Services team culture, workload, and improvements Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information and contribute to good data governance About you If you’re the kind of person who isn’t afraid to try new things, explore bold ideas, and inject energy and passion into the university experience, you’ll fit in. Qualifications A minimum of five years' NZ experience in a high-volume payroll process role Strong understanding of New Zealand payroll legislation (including Holidays Act and tax obligations) Desire to improve processes through continuous improvement Ability to work under pressure, independently and in a collaborative team Customer savvy with empathy and the ability to navigate policy to support complex or sensitive situations Excellent organisation and ability to ensure timely and accurate payroll processing Our expectations As a professional member of staff, you’ll help move AUT forward by improving services and systems to support students and staff. You’ll work collaboratively, solve problems, and drive practical improvements to help us operate smoothly and evolve daily. Culture and requirements You’ll bring an open, engaging, collaborative approach, with flexibility to respond to changing requirements, and actively contribute to a positive environment. Demonstrated cultural humility and respect when engaging with indigenous peoples and culturally diverse communities is important. Experience supporting indigenous, equity, or inclusion-focused initiatives is highly desirable. Benefits and how to apply We offer a values-led environment and opportunities to thrive, including: Flexible working and a caring culture that supports belonging Opportunity to build payroll skills and experience A supportive, fun team focused on your success Opportunities to contribute to process improvements and projects Ongoing training and development Recognition frameworks that reflect your contribution Tools and trust to make a meaningful difference daily Māori and Pacific development programmes and cultural capability uplift for staff How to apply Submit your CV and a cover letter explaining why this role and AUT are of interest and how you meet the key criteria. Include any additional information to support your application. All applications must be submitted online. Start Date: To be discussed with the successful candidate Salary Range: $76,000 - $102,000 per annum (dependent on experience and qualifications) For further information: please send an enquiry to the listed contact Job Reference | 96100 Location: City Campus Employment type: Fixed term Closes on 22 Jul 2026 23:55 #J-18808-Ljbffr