Principal Manager Payroll in Sydney

Join to apply for the Principal Manager Payroll role at NSW Department of Customer Service.

Base pay range: A$149,739.00/yr - A$173,174.00/yr

Clerk Grade: 11/12

Salary Range: $149,739 - $173,174 plus superannuation and leave loading

Employment Type: Full-Time, Ongoing

Location: Sydney - Hybrid opportunity. In-office requirement 2-3 days a week as a minimum, which could be subject to change based on applicable DCS workplace policies.

Application Closing: Friday, 12th September 2025 [9:59am]

About Us

Department of Customer Service (DCS) transforms the way NSW Government agencies interact with customers. We are passionate about putting the customer at the centre of everything we do and adopting new technologies to make Government work better. DCS is a service provider and regulator, focusing on delivering first-class customer service, digital transformation, and regulatory reform to create better outcomes for the people of NSW.

About the team

Government Shared Services (GSS) is a new division in DCS that is leading the way in streamlining processes and transactional shared services to allow our people to better focus on their customers and delivering their services. We are developing and delivering a roadmap to leverage technology, streamline processes, replace legacy systems and deliver a consistent experience to more than 100+ agencies across 8 NSW Government Departments.

The HR Process Operations team within Government Shared Services Business Process Operations is a team that provides payroll services to NSW Government employees. It is a fast paced, high energy team, where no two days are the same. Our team members are energetic individuals who play a key role in supporting our overall HR operations area.

Key Responsibilities

• Day to day running of various payroll teams located in Paramatta and Goulburn, interacting with internal and external stakeholders, addressing complex queries and escalations that your teams are working on.
• Provide support to the Executive team, providing insights and advice for decision making on payroll related matters.
• Ensuring accurate and compliant payroll processing, leading the implementation of process improvements and contributing to major projects such as new client onboardings.

About You

• Deep understanding of end-to-end payroll processes, including compliance with relevant NSW Government legislation, awards, and policy. You ensure accuracy, timeliness, and confidentiality in all payroll activities.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop payroll teams. You foster a collaborative and high-performance culture, ensuring team members are supported and aligned with organisational goals.
• Ability to identify opportunities for process optimisation, automation, and system enhancements. You drive initiatives that improve efficiency, accuracy, and employee experience.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders. You communicate complex payroll matters clearly and confidently to diverse audiences.
• Thorough knowledge of payroll legislation, superannuation, taxation, and reporting obligations. You proactively manage risks and ensure audit readiness and governance standards are met.
• Skilled in SAP payroll system. Leverage technology to deliver insights, streamline operations, and support decision-making.
• Experience leading payroll-related projects such as system implementations, restructures, or legislative changes. You manage timelines, resources, and stakeholder expectations effectively.
• Commitment to delivering a positive employee experience through responsive, accurate, and empathetic payroll support.

What we need from you

An up-to-date CV (max 5 pages) and a cover letter (max 2 pages) outlining how your knowledge, skills and experience are aligned to the role. In your cover letter please share your motivation for applying for this position and your relevant skills.

Please note that assessments will be conducted for this role. This involves submitting your application for review, an interview, workplace assessment and reference checks.

A talent pool may be created from this recruitment action for future temporary or ongoing vacancies in roles with similar capability requirements.

Salary Grade 11/12, with the base salary for this role starting at $149,739 base plus superannuation.

Closing Date: Friday, 12th September 2025 [9:59am]

Careers at Department of Customer Service

A career at the Department of Customer Service (DCS) gives you the opportunity to help improve government services and be part of reform that benefits people across NSW. We are focused on delivering excellent customer service, digital transformation, and regulatory reform. Come join us and influence the future of our great state.

Belong in our diverse and inclusive workplace

The strength of our workforce lies in its diversity and embracing difference, while the key to our success is leveraging the contributions of employees with different backgrounds and perspectives.

You can view our full diversity and inclusion statement here.

We want you to bring your best self to this application process. If you have any support or access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in this selection process (including an alternate format of the application form) please contact Michael.Yoon@customerservice.nsw.gov.au or 02 9494 8351.