Payroll Manager

Job title : Payroll Manager
Location : Melbourne
Job type : Contract or Temp
Contact name : Sarah Armstrong
Contact email : sarmstrong@sharpandcarter.com.au
Job reference : SA60143
  • Inner eastern suburbs location – close to public transport & parking
  • 3 month temp role – immediate start (potential to go perm)
  • Flexible working – 3 days WFH – Competitive hourly rate
We have an excellent opportunity for a Payroll Manager to step into a hands-on, standalone role within a well-established business. This position will suit an experienced payroll professional who is confident operating in a manual, process-heavy environment and enjoys taking ownership, improving processes, and working closely with senior stakeholders.
This will be a 3 month temporary assignment with a strong potential to go permanent for the right candidate.

The Opportunity
Reporting into the Finance team, you will take full ownership of the payroll function. This is a hands-on role requiring strong attention to detail, initiative, and confidence working within a less automated system.
You will be responsible for ensuring payroll accuracy and compliance, while also identifying opportunities to improve processes and streamline workflows.

Key Responsibilities
  • End-to-end payroll processing across approx. 200 employees (monthly & fortnightly cycles)
  • Manage payroll for both salaried and timesheet employees
  • Interpret EBAs and ensure accurate application across payroll
  • Perform detailed payroll checks including month-on-month reconciliations
  • Utilise Excel heavily (VLOOKUPs, reconciliations, validation checks)
  • Manage payroll queries from internal stakeholders and employees
  • Ensure compliance with payroll legislation, policies and procedures
  • Identify and implement process improvements where possible
  •  Partner closely with Senior stakeholders & the wider finance team

About You
  • 5+ years proven experience in a Payroll Manager or Senior Payroll position
  • Strong EBA interpretation experience
  •  Advanced Excel skills and confidence working with manual processes
  • Comfortable working autonomously and taking full ownership of payroll
  • Proactive, resilient and solutions-focused approach
  • Strong communication skills, able to manage a direct workforce
What’s on Offer
  • Inner eastern suburbs location, close to public transport
  • Competitive hourly rate based on experience (circa $60-$70 per hour + super)
  • Great flexible working with the option to work from home 3 days a week.
  • Immediate start contract role with potential to extend or convert to permanent for the right person
  • High-autonomy role reporting directly to senior leadership
  • Opportunity to step into a critical position and make an immediate impact
How to Apply
Click the link below to apply online.
For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Sarah Armstrong at sarmstrong@sharpandcarter.com.au