Payroll/HR Specialist

Role overview

Pratt & Whitney is hiring a full-time, permanent Payroll/HR Specialist for its Christchurch Engine Centre in Christchurch, Canterbury. This onsite role focuses on delivering precise and timely payroll services while also supporting broader HR operations as the business moves toward a global shared services structure.

The position is well suited to someone who enjoys detailed payroll work, HR reporting, process improvement, and cross-functional collaboration. Alongside payroll administration, you will contribute to HR analytics, business analysis, employee support, and operational improvements that strengthen service delivery across the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Keep payroll and time-attendance records accurate by making timely updates and ensuring deadlines are met.
• Work closely with Global Financial Services and production leaders to resolve payroll, timekeeping, and system issues through to completion.
• Handle superannuation and IRD-related transactions accurately and within required timelines.
• Prepare third-party deduction reports for external stakeholders.
• Answer payroll queries, manage related records, and retain information needed for audit purposes.
• Coordinate with external HR support providers such as financial advisers and superannuation administrators.
• Support annual collective bargaining activities, including rate changes and updates to collective agreement settings in payroll systems.
• Keep up with payroll-related legislative changes and apply necessary updates.
• Lead payroll system and process improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate data in HR information systems and SAP through timely updates.
• Oversee HR function accounts payable and assist with the shift to shared services.
• Carry out business analysis to improve and transform payroll and HR processes for a global shared services operating model.
• Produce HR analytics and reporting to improve service quality.
• Support the Drug and Alcohol Management Programme coordinator with annual programme administration and reporting analysis.
• Help coordinate workplace injury and illness support across the business.
• Assist with new starter and exit administration, including onsite induction activities.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in commerce, business, human resources, or a closely related field is preferred.
• NZPPA membership is expected.
• Payroll Foundations and Payroll Calculations certification from NZPPA is required/preferred as stated.
• At least 3 to 5 years of relevant experience in payroll or HR administration.
• Practical knowledge of New Zealand employment law and the Holidays Act 2003.
• Prior exposure to payroll administration for collective bargaining agreements is an advantage.
• Familiarity with SAP or similar enterprise payroll/HR platforms.
• Strong planning and prioritisation skills with the ability to meet deadlines consistently.
• High attention to detail, accuracy, and quality standards.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint.
• Business analysis and continuous improvement capability with a track record of process enhancement.
• Ability to work effectively in a small onsite team and collaborate with international stakeholders.

Benefits

• Competitive pay package with salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Career development support through training, mentoring, secondments, and scholarship opportunities.
• Discounted access to services and products, including health insurance and financial advisory support.
• Modern workplace in a convenient location with secure on-site parking.
• Access to the AirNZ Social Club, wellness initiatives, and employee assistance programmes.

About the organisation

Christchurch Engine Centre is a joint venture between Pratt & Whitney and Air New Zealand, providing maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for all V2500 engine variants. Pratt & Whitney, part of RTX, is known globally for designing, manufacturing, and supporting aircraft engines and auxiliary power units for commercial, military, and business aviation.

The Christchurch team works in a modern facility and offers ongoing learning and development opportunities in a collaborative environment.

Application details

Applicants should submit an updated CV, a cover letter, and relevant qualification or certification documents. Candidates must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.

Applications close on 26 July 2026, although applications may be reviewed as they are received and suitable candidates could be contacted before the closing date.

Additional information

This employer follows equal employment principles and considers all qualified applicants without discrimination based on ethnicity, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

The job is based at NZ-CAN-CHRISTCHURCH-115-1, 115 Orchard Rd, V2500 Workshop, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand.

Privacy policy and terms apply.