Payroll Officer

Role overview

Cairns Regional Council is seeking a meticulous and well-organised Payroll Officer to support the accurate administration of its payroll operations. This permanent full-time role is based at Council Chambers on Spence Street in Cairns and focuses on ensuring staff are paid correctly and on time while delivering responsive service to employees with payroll queries.

What you will do

In this position, you will contribute to the upkeep and processing of the Council payroll system. You will help manage payroll transactions, maintain data accuracy, and respond to employee questions in a professional and service-focused manner.

What the Council is looking for

The ideal candidate will have experience closely aligned with this type of work or a comparable role. Prior exposure to payroll in a local government setting is an advantage. You should be trusted with confidential information, able to enter data quickly and accurately for both letters and numbers, and confident using computerised payroll systems. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, along with the ability to work cooperatively in a team and maintain a customer-first approach.

Benefits and support

The Council offers flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance, subsidised Fitness Passport memberships for gym and swimming pool access, up to 5 weeks of annual leave, up to 3 weeks of personal leave, learning and development opportunities, up to 14 weeks of paid parental leave, and salary sacrifice options.

Culture and values

The organisation emphasises collaboration, inclusion, innovation, continuous improvement, professional growth, and a supportive workplace culture.

Application requirements

Applications must be lodged online and should include a cover letter that addresses the selection criteria, plus a resume that outlines your academic background and work experience. If requested, you should also attach any relevant qualifications and licences connected to the role. Further details, including the key duties and selection criteria, are available in the position description.

Additional information

Requisition Number: 1177. The position is located at Council Chambers, 119–145 Spence Street, Cairns. Applications close on Sunday, 5 July 2026 at 11:30 pm AEST.