Payroll Team Leader

Mō te tūnga | About the role

As Payroll Team Leader, you'll lead a team delivering accurate and timely payroll services in a large, complex organisation. No two days are the same as you balance operational delivery, stakeholder relationships, team development and continuous improvement.

You'll be part of a supportive and experienced team that values collaboration, continuous learning and shared success. We work together to solve problems, support one another, and deliver great service in an environment where every day brings something different.

You will be responsible for:

• Delivery oversight of payroll services to ensure people are paid correctly and on time
• Supporting team capability through knowledge sharing, mentoring and development
• Identifying opportunities to improve payroll processes and business practices
• Building strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders across NZDF
• Managing workflows, priorities and resources across a busy operational environment

The salary band for this role starts at $83,507 with a midpoint of $92,111, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.

Applications may be reviewed upon receipt. It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We're looking for an experienced payroll professional who enjoys leading people and helping others succeed. You'll be highly organised, detail-oriented and methodical in your approach, with the ability to build trusted relationships and confidently manage competing priorities in a dynamic environment.

To be successful in this role, you’ll have:

• 2-5 years’ experience working in payroll
• Previous experience leading, mentoring or developing staff
• Strong attention to detail and a structured, methodical approach to work
• An advanced level of computer literacy with a particular focus on MS Excel
• Knowledge of payroll legislation and compliance requirements
• Experience with SAP payroll systems (desirable but not essential)

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Monday 24 August 2026.

Use the links on this page where you’ll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves – please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here’s what you need to know:

Low Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last five (5) years.
• You must have a five (5) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.