Payroll Specialist

• 12-month fixed term contract
• Up to $112,741k plus 17% superannuation
• Flexible work arrangements, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

We are looking for an experienced and detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join our Shared Services Team for a 12-month fixed term contract. This role is critical in ensuring the accurate and compliant delivery of payroll services across the Macquarie University Group.

About the Role

As a Payroll Specialist, you will play a key role in:

• Delivering timely and accurate fortnightly pay runs
• Managing payroll tax, superannuation, and other payments
• Resolving complex payroll queries efficiently
• Performing financial reconciliations and preparing reports for auditors and stakeholders
• Assisting with salary and allowance updates per Enterprise Agreements and Modern Awards
• Supporting payroll system upgrades and process improvements
• Ensuring Single Touch Payroll (STP) compliance

What We're Looking For (selection criteria);

• Experience in complex payroll operations, including pay-run processing, reconciliations, and compliance.
• Strong understanding of Modern Awards, Enterprise Agreements, PAYG, Payroll Tax, and STP reporting.
• Proficiency in HR/Payroll Enterprise Systems - experience with Workday and Ascender is highly regarded;
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

About us

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Celebrating its 60th year in 2024, it was established as a bold experiment in higher education and designed to break from educational traditions to work in tandem with industry.

Institutionally we strive for the extraordinary by challenging convention and embracing different views. Our pioneering culture has encouraged and inspired students, staff and collaborators to break free from conventional thinking, and to actively shape the complex issues that define the future of humanity.

How to Apply:

To be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter of no more than two pages outlining how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above in 'what we're looking for).

Applications Close: Tuesday 18th of August 2026 at 11:59pm (AEST).

*This position requires qualification and criminal history checks.

We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.

For enquiries, or a confidential conversation about the role please contact Kate Williams - Talent Acquisition Consultant - ••••@mq.edu.au.

Why Join Us?

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability. Take a look at the fabulous staff benefits on offer when you work at Macquarie University.

Pre-Employment Checks

Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.

Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.

A Place Where You Belong

At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.

Flexible Work

At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage our personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, explore our Candidate Resource Hub.