Payroll Officer

Role overview

University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) is hiring a Payroll Officer to join its People and Culture team at the Sunshine Coast campus in Sippy Downs, Queensland. This is a full-time, ongoing role at Level 5 with a salary range of $82,843 to $93,358 per annum, plus employer superannuation of up to 17%.

The role focuses on delivering accurate and timely payroll outcomes for staff, with responsibility for supporting the University’s fortnightly payroll cycle. You will provide dependable guidance on payroll, superannuation, taxation, and employment conditions while working within applicable legislation, industrial instruments, policies, and internal procedures. The position also contributes to improving payroll systems and workflows to strengthen service quality.

As part of a collaborative and service-oriented team, you will work closely with colleagues across the University to provide prompt payroll assistance and help create a positive employee experience.

Key accountabilities

• Provide advice across payroll and superannuation-related matters.
• Support the smooth and efficient operation of the University’s fortnightly payroll processing.
• Maintain adherence to legislation, University policy, and internal procedures.

About you

UniSC is looking for a payroll professional who is highly accurate, service-focused, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where deadlines and compliance are essential. You should bring strong knowledge of payroll rules, industrial instruments, and employment conditions, along with the confidence to handle complex issues, advise stakeholders, and help refine processes.

You will need to use sound judgement, problem-solving ability, and strong communication skills to manage enquiries and support continuous improvement across payroll services.

Selection criteria

• Substantial experience preparing and finalising fortnightly payroll for a large organisation, with sound knowledge of superannuation and taxation legislation.
• Strong analytical capability, including structured and ad hoc reporting, and advanced use of a complex HRIS, preferably PeopleSoft.
• Experience giving accurate advice and responding to queries by interpreting employment conditions, policies, procedures, and guidelines, while maintaining high-quality customer service.
• Ability to use initiative, exercise good judgement, and solve problems effectively.
• Strong computing and word processing skills, including advanced experience with databases and spreadsheets.
• Well-developed organisational and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing.

Application information

Applicants are expected to submit a resume and a statement of suitability of no more than two pages, aligned to the selection criteria in the position description. Applications are reviewed throughout the advertising period, and suitable candidates may be contacted before the closing date, so early submission is encouraged.

For a confidential discussion, contact Emma Bayles, Associate Director, Employee Experience - People and Culture, on 07 5459 4492 or email ebayles@usc.edu.au. For application support, contact unisc-careers@usc.edu.au or call +61 7 5430 2830.

Eligibility

Applications are open to candidates who already hold legal work rights in Australia. UniSC welcomes applicants from a wide range of backgrounds and encourages people from underrepresented and diverse communities to apply. The University also notes that it does not accept unsolicited applications.

About UniSC

UniSC is a fast-growing university in South East Queensland with more than 2,000 staff across five campuses and an expanding presence in major capital cities. The institution is known for its work in research, teaching, sustainability, high-performance sport, and alumni achievement. Its research strengths include sustainability, environmental systems, biodiversity, aquaculture, preventative health, and regional resilience, with strong international recognition in global rankings.

The University promotes a collaborative, supportive workplace with opportunities for professional growth, flexible working arrangements, and a range of employee benefits. Its culture is built around teamwork, innovation, and making a meaningful difference to local and global challenges.

Benefits

• Supportive and collaborative workplace culture.
• Modern teaching and research facilities.
• Professional development and career progression opportunities.
• Recognition through the Athena SWAN Bronze Award as part of the Science in Australia Gender Equity initiative.
• Flexible working options and generous leave entitlements.
• Salary packaging opportunities and 17% superannuation.
• Employee assistance program, fitness passport, and discounted private health cover.