System Analyst at Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections), Wellington (Te Whanganui a Tara)

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Join a high-performing team working on complex and meaningful SAP S/4HANA initiatives
• Lead payroll-focused system improvements and ensure ongoing compliance
• Permanent full-time role based at our Wellington National Office

Mō te tūnga | About the role

This is a payroll-centric systems role. You will bring together deep payroll expertise with strong systems analysis capability to support and improve our SAP-based HR and payroll environment.

You will focus on ensuring payroll solutions are compliant, stable, and fit for purpose, while also driving enhancements that align with business needs and strategic goals. Payroll sits at the core of this role but there are plenty of opportunities to expand knowledge and experience.

Key responsibilities include:

• Provide expert support for payroll system issues, analysis, and development
• Lead system changes and improvements, working with internal teams and vendors
• Translate business and payroll requirements into clear technical solutions
• Support system upgrades, testing, and releases using your payroll expertise
• Work closely with SAP and HR teams to deliver joined-up outcomes

Mōu | About you

You are a systems analyst with strong, hands-on payroll experience. You understand how payroll works in practice and how systems need to support it.

You are confident working across both business and technical teams and can turn complex payroll requirements into practical system solutions.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

We're looking for someone with:

• Strong, hands-on experience with an Enterprise level payroll system (essential)
• Experience working with SAP Payroll (highly desirable)
• Solid understanding of New Zealand payroll legislation and compliance requirements
• Experience as a Systems Analyst, including gathering requirements and delivering system solutions
• Ability to analyse complex payroll data and resolve issues
• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills
• A collaborative approach and customer-focused mindset
• An ability to work well under pressure and as part of a team

Utu ā-tau | Salary

The midpoint of the salary range is $93,688 per annum and the full range (85%–120%) is $79,635 – $112,426 per annum. Appointment and remuneration will reflect your skills and experience.

In addition, we offer:

• A modern, technology-enabled work environment
• Opportunities to grow your skills and experience
• Flexible working options to support work–life balance

Mō mātou | About us

Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Māori in correctional facilities. As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whānau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our Hōkai Rangi strategy.

We value inclusion and diversity in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve. We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.

Tono ināianei | Apply Now

To submit an application and view the position description, click the apply link. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency – applications received via email will not be considered.

When applying, submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.

Applications close on: Sunday 1 November 2026, 11pm, NZST.

If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact sarah.zagarelos@corrections.govt.nz, or visit careers.corrections.govt.nz.