Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist – Hawkes Bay Fallen Soldiers Hospital

Payroll Team, Permanent, Full‑time (80 hours per fortnight, 1 FTE) – Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora

We are looking for a detail‑oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to join our Payroll team at Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora, Hawkes Bay. In this role, you’ll be responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing across the district, supporting compliance with legislation, employment agreements, and internal policies. You’ll act as a subject matter expert, providing guidance on complex payroll issues, mentoring junior team members, and supporting managers with pay approvals and over payment management.

This role offers variety, responsibility, and the opportunity to contribute to continuous improvement in payroll systems and processes.

• Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing across the district.
• Support compliance with legislation, employment agreements, and internal policies.
• Act as a subject matter expert on complex payroll issues.
• Mentor junior team members and support managers with pay approvals.
• Manage over payment issues.

You’ll be joining a collaborative and supportive Payroll team based at the Corporate Office in Hawkes Bay. Led by the Payroll Team Leader, the team works closely with the Corporate, People & Communications, and Finance Directorates to deliver accurate and efficient payroll services. The team values integrity, responsiveness, and continuous improvement – making it a great environment for someone who thrives on detail, teamwork, and making a meaningful impact.

• A relevant graduate or postgraduate qualification.
• At least two years’ experience in a payroll role, ideally within a large, complex organisation.
• Strong knowledge of employment legislation and the Holidays Act 2003.
• High‑level computer and numeracy skills, with strong attention to detail and analytical ability.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Proven ability to meet deadlines under pressure and prioritise workflow.
• Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and equity‑focused practice.

• Experience working with multiple employment agreements and MECAs, and in a healthcare setting.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Dawn Tyler via email ert.nz.