Senior Payroll Officer (Finance)

Senior Payroll Advisor – Local Government
Location:  Coburg | Contract Type:   3–4 Month Contract | Rate:  $70–90/hour + super

We are currently seeking a capable and experienced Senior Payroll Advisor to support the delivery of accurate, timely, and compliant payroll services within a busy local government environment. This key role is responsible for managing complex payroll processes, providing advice on award and legislative interpretation, and contributing to operational improvements across systems and workflows.
This position is ideal for a candidate with proven payroll experience, a strong understanding of enterprise agreements, and hands-on experience using Chris21/iChris (mandatory).

Key Responsibilities Payroll Operations & Compliance

• Oversee end-to-end payroll processing on a fortnightly basis for all council staff
• Interpret and apply industrial legislation, Council’s Enterprise Agreement, and relevant awards
• Manage complex transactions including termination payments, parental leave, and long service leave transfers
• Conduct payroll reconciliations and support audit preparation and compliance reporting
• Maintain accurate payroll records and ensure data integrity across systems

Stakeholder Support & Advisory

• Provide expert payroll advice to HR and Finance teams, as well as managers across the organisation
• Communicate payroll processes and compliance requirements to non-financial managers in a clear and practical manner
• Support ongoing education around entitlements and legislative changes
• Collaborate with the Payroll Coordinator and other internal stakeholders on process improvements

System Management & Process Improvement

• Operate and maintain payroll systems such as Chris21/iChris(mandatory), Microsoft NAV, and Time & Attendance platforms
• Contribute to the enhancement of payroll procedures and governance practices
• Identify and escalate areas for system optimisation or process refinement

Key Skills & Attributes

• Strong knowledge of enterprise agreements, employment legislation, and public sector payroll obligations
• Demonstrated ability to manage payroll in a multi-entity environment with a high level of accuracy
• Strong numeracy, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and general Microsoft Office Suite proficiency
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a focus on internal service delivery
• High level of attention to detail and the ability to work independently and within a team
• Understanding of broader organisational objectives and the strategic goals of the People & Culture function

Qualifications & Experience

• Tertiary qualification in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related discipline
• Postgraduate studies (completed or in progress) highly regarded
• 1–3+ years of specialist payroll experience, preferably in a government or complex organisational setting
• Chris21/iChris experience is essential
• Previous experience in local government is highly regarded
• Experience with Microsoft NAV and time & attendance systems is beneficial

How to Apply
If you are a capable payroll professional with strong public sector experience and hands-on Chris21/iChris knowledge, we encourage you to apply today.


At Chandler Macleod, we are committed to fostering a diverse workforce where everyone is welcome. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, neurodiverse, people living with a disability and the LGBTIQA+ community.

You can read more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion at https://www.chandlermacleod.com/diversity-and-inclusion.