Payroll Processing Officer

This role can be based in Brisbane, Sydney, or Melbourne.

Some payroll roles are about processing numbers. This one is about getting the details right, so people are paid accurately, on time, and with confidence.

At Guardian, we are looking for a Payroll Processing Officer to join our team.

We want someone who takes ownership, works with precision, and understands that behind every pay run is a person relying on you to get it right.

This is a role with real accountability. You will be responsible for delivering accurate, compliant, and timely payroll processing across the business, while supporting a high-volume, fast-moving environment. It requires strong attention to detail, clear thinking, and the ability to manage competing priorities without losing accuracy.

Just as important, this is a role where your work has a direct impact on people’s experience at Guardian. Payroll is not just transactional; it is a critical part of trust. That’s why we are looking for someone who combines technical capability, ownership, and a strong service mindset.

What you’ll do

• Process weekly payroll accurately and on time
• Prepare and manage ad hoc pay runs as required
• Handle backdated adjustments and ensure they are validated before processing
• Support investigations into payroll discrepancies and identify recurring issues
• Manage onboarding and offboarding payroll processes with accuracy and compliance
• Maintain payroll data integrity and support ongoing system updates
• Respond to payroll enquiries from employees and managers in a clear and timely way
• Monitor and resolve payroll tickets, escalating where needed
• Work closely with internal teams to ensure a smooth and consistent payroll experience

What success looks like

• Payroll is delivered accurately, on time, every time
• Adjustments are well-managed, validated, and clearly documented
• New starters and leavers are processed smoothly and correctly
• Payroll data is clean, compliant, and up to date
• Queries are handled quickly, clearly, and professionally
• You stay organised and in control, even during busy periods
• You contribute to improving processes, not just maintaining them

What we’re looking for You may have come from payroll, finance support, or a high-volume administrative role where accuracy, deadlines, and accountability mattered.
We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience processing payroll in a fast-paced environment
• Brings strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Understands payroll compliance and legislative requirements
• Is confident working with systems such as MicrOpay or Humanforce (preferred)
• Communicates clearly and professionally
• Takes ownership and follows through
• Stays calm, organised, and solution-focused under pressure
• Works well within a team and contributes to a positive environment

Why Guardian
Guardian is built around giving children and families the best possible start. Behind that is a support office that ensures everything runs as it should — including payroll.

You’ll be joining a team that values accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement. This is a role where your work matters, your standards are trusted, and your contribution helps keep the business running smoothly.

Apply now and become a valued member of our childcare family.

Guardian Childcare & Education values diversity in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. Diverse cultures, backgrounds and experiences strengthen our teams and help us grow. We are committed to providing a workplace where every person is valued, respected, and supported to progress.

*For those who have not been in employment that long, these expectations will be adjusted.