Employment

About CEM

Christian Education Ministries (CEM) is a protestant non-denominational, Christian Education organisation whose mission is to develop each and every student to be equipped spiritually, academically, socially and physically to flourish into their full potential, and be a positive influence on the world around them. CEM is wholeheartedly committed to excellence in education so that students are “well known, well loved, and well taught” by dedicated trained Christian staff.

CEM provides corporate services to schools, home-schooling families and childcare centres nationwide, servicing 17 schools and 3 early learning centres across Australia owned through controlled entities. 

About the role

We are seeking a full time Construction Manager to oversee the planning and successful delivery of a portfolio of educational construction projects from CEM across the country. The role will work collaboratively with the Principal Architect and Development Manager to strategise overall project delivery of all projects from feasibility to occupancy. When projects reach tender phase responsibility will pass from the Principal Architect to the Construction Manager who will see it through to occupancy. Reporting to the Head of Building Development the role will manage internal Project Managers and external resources as required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage detailed project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Lead cross-functional project teams to ensure objectives are met.
• Coordinate project tendering and drafting construction contracts
• Identify, manage, and mitigate project risks.
• Communicate progress and updates to stakeholders and leadership.
• Monitor project performance and implement improvements as needed.
• The role is based in CEM’s corporate office on the Central Coast with a flexible work policy allowing a portion of WFH. 

• Bachelor’s degree in Project Management, Construction Management, or related field.
• Proven experience as a Construction Manager or in a similar leadership role managing complex construction projects valued up to $50M across multiple sites simultaneously.
• Comprehensive understanding of and experience with australian construction contracts such as AS4000.
• Excellent organisational, leadership, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in project management systems.
• Hold and maintain a valid Working with Children Check
• An active Christian faith and church involvement
• Commitment to live and work in accordance with the Christian Faith and its values

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Supportive and collaborative Christian team culture.
• NSW’s Central Coast is ideally located between Sydney and Newcastle, offering a vibrant coastal lifestyle.
• Grow in your experience and skills
• Experience working in a Christian company with healthy values and culture
• Employee benefits package including WHEREFIT exclusive discounts and EAP

About CEM

Christian Education Ministries (CEM) is a protestant non-denominational, Christian Education organisation, whose mission is to develop each and every student to be equipped spiritually, academically, socially and physically to flourish into their full potential, and be a positive influence on the world around them. CEM is wholeheartedly committed to excellence in education so that students are “well known, well loved, and well taught” by dedicated trained Christian staff.

CEM is a growing network, with 16 schools (including the Australian Christian College schools) and 3 early learning centres, in 5 states, and is also the largest non-government Distance Education and home schooling provider in Australia.

CEM’s national office is located on the Central Coast of NSW (Erina) and we are always on the lookout for individuals who are passionate about Christian Education and have relevant skills and experience to add value to our growing team. Based at our national office are Business & Finance, Admin, HR, ICT, Buildings (Project Managers & Architects), and Marketing.

Requirements

• Suitable experience.
• Capacity to work and collaborate within a dynamic team.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders throughout the organisation
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and attention to detail.
• Confident in using cloud-based applications and familiar with modern technology.
• Ability to maintain an energetic, self-motivated and enthusiastic work ethic.
• Possess, or would be successful in obtaining, a Working with Children Check.
• Servant heart, vibrant Christian faith, and are actively involved in your local church.

Benefits

CEM employees can access a range of staff benefits, including:

• An attractive remuneration package, including superannuation entitlements, will be offered to match the relevant demonstrated skills and experience of the successful candidate.
• Flexibility of work hours and/or location will be considered for the right candidate.
• Being part of a growing group of organisations that are reimagining Christian Education in Australia.
• Grow in your faith, skills and experience.
• Being part of a faith community that shares regular devotions and prayer.
• NSW’s Central Coast is ideally located between Sydney and Newcastle, offering a vibrant coastal lifestyle.

About CEM

Christian Education Ministries (CEM) is a Protestant non-denominational, Christian Education organisation, whose mission is to develop each and every student to be equipped spiritually, academically, socially and physically to flourish into their full potential, and be a positive influence on the world around them. CEM is wholeheartedly committed to excellence in education so that students are “well known, well loved, and well taught” by dedicated trained Christian staff.

CEM is a growing network, with 16 schools (including the Australian Christian College schools) and 3 early learning centres, in 5 states, and is also the largest non-government Distance Education and home schooling provider in Australia.

CEM’s national office is located on the Central Coast of NSW (Erina) and we are always on the lookout for individuals who are passionate about Christian Education and have relevant skills and experience to add value to our growing team.

About the role

The Payroll Manager plays a vital role in supporting the mission of Christian Education Ministries by ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll for staff across our schools and programs. This critical role is responsible for the delivery of timely and accurate payroll services to over 1,000 staff across 5 States, and represents the single largest expenditure category for the organisation. The Payroll Manager must also embody the organisation’s Christian values in every interaction, providing compassionate and professional support to staff, working alongside an existing team of experienced payroll staff, and as part of a broader, largely centralised Finance Team.

This full-time position is to start as soon as is practicable.

Key Responsibilities

The Payroll Manager will lead an existing experienced team, and work collaboratively with the Chief Financial Officer, Assistant Chief Financial Officer, Finance Manager, School Business Partners, and Human Resources Manager. The role demands someone with excellent interpersonal skills who can lead by example through contribution to the daily workload. The key responsibilities include:

Payroll Processing

• Accurately process end-to-end payroll for all employees on a scheduled cycle, ensuring compliance with Award and legislative requirements.
• Verify and process timesheets, allowances, overtime, deductions, leave entitlements, and terminations.
• Maintain accurate employee records, including contracts, classifications, and pay rates.
• Process new staff onboarding, variations, and separations in a timely and professional manner.

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure payroll operations comply with the Fair Work Act, National Employment Standards, taxation legislation, superannuation obligations, and applicable awards or enterprise agreements.
• Prepare and submit PAYG, superannuation contributions, Single Touch Payroll (STP) reporting, and year-end reconciliations.
• Generate accurate payroll reports for different audiences - School Principals, Executive Management, finance team, and auditors.

Systems & Data Management

• Maintain payroll and HR systems, ensuring data accuracy and security.
• Conduct regular audits to maintain compliance and identify performance improvement opportunities.
• Support integration of payroll data with accounting, HR, and finance systems.

Employee Support

• Provide prompt, professional, and appropriate responses to payroll inquiries.
• Advise staff regarding leave balances, pay calculations, award interpretation, and payroll policies.
• Support the HR team with employment documentation and onboarding as it relates to payroll.

Key Skills & Attributes

• Commitment to the mission and values of Christian Education Ministries.
• Strong understanding of payroll legislation, taxation, superannuation, and Awards.
• High attention to detail, accuracy, and confidentiality.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet strict deadlines.
• Proficiency with payroll and related systems (e.g., Netsuite, Xero, MYOB, Aurion, Synergetic) and Microsoft Excel.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 3-5 years experience in leading payroll administration.
• Experience interpreting Awards or enterprise agreements (desirable).
• Previous experience in Christian education, faith-based, or not-for-profit sectors is highly regarded.

• Confident in using cloud-based applications and familiar with modern technology.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated experience with data entry, accounting systems and spreadsheets.
• Demonstrated experience in leading/supervising payroll processes and delivering performance improvement in core payroll systems and related aspects of Human Resource Information Systems.
• Demonstrated ability to analyse data, identify trends and anomalies, and propose practical solutions (which would also incorporate policy refinement).
• Ability to maintain an energetic, self-motivated and enthusiastic work ethic.
• Ability to work collaboratively with people at all levels.

Benefits

CEM employees can access a range of staff benefits, including:

• An attractive remuneration package, including superannuation entitlements, will be offered to match the relevant demonstrated skills and experience of the successful candidate.
• Flexibility of work hours and/or location will be considered for the right candidate, at the appropriate time.
• Being part of a growing group of organisations that are reimagining Christian Education in Australia.
• Grow in your faith, skills and experience.
• Being part of a faith community that shares regular devotions and prayer.
• NSW’s Central Coast is ideally located between Sydney and Newcastle, offering a vibrant coastal lifestyle.

About CEM

Christian Education Ministries (CEM) is a protestant non-denominational, Christian Education organisation whose mission is to develop each and every student to be equipped spiritually, academically, socially and physically to flourish into their full potential, and be a positive influence on the world around them. CEM is wholeheartedly committed to excellence in education so that students are “well known, well loved, and well taught” by dedicated trained Christian staff.

CEM provides corporate services to schools, home-schooling families and childcare centres nationwide, servicing 17 schools and 3 early learning centres across Australia owned through controlled entities. 

About the role

The PR & Communications Specialist is responsible for protecting, enhancing, and promoting the organisation’s reputation, and its associated brands. This role plays a critical part in shaping the public narrative, ensuring clear and consistent communication across all channels, and building strong relationships with stakeholders, media, and the wider community. The PR & Communications Specialist will manage all aspects of public relations and communications, from content creation to issues management.

This full time position is due to start January 2026 (open to negotiation).

Key Responsibilities

• Communication Strategy: Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies and campaigns that align with CEM's mission, vision, and strategic objectives.
• Media Relations: Build and maintain positive relationships with journalists and media outlets. This includes managing media enquiries, preparing press releases, coordinating interviews, and proactively pitching stories.
• Reputation & Issues Management: Serve as the first point of contact for issues communications. Escalate serious issues to the Chief Marketing Officer.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Facilitate effective communication with key internal and external stakeholders, including schools, parents, staff, alumni, and community leaders, to ensure alignment and shared purpose.
• Event Management: Plan and coordinate PR-related events, including media briefings and promotional activities, to enhance visibility and engagement.
• Content Creation: Create compelling and engaging content for a variety of platforms, including press releases, media kits, newsletters, articles,  and website content.
• Monitoring & Reporting: Track, analyse, and report on media coverage and the effectiveness of communication efforts. Utilise data and insights to inform and refine future strategies.

• A bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• 3-5 years experience in a public relations or communications role, preferably within the education sector.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for crafting clear, concise, and persuasive content.
• Demonstrated experience in media relations, including a strong understanding of media landscapes and journalist protocols.
• Proficiency in developing and implementing communication and issues management plans.
• Familiarity with digital communication tools, social media platforms, and media monitoring software.
• Strong project management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Personal Attributes

• A deep commitment to and alignment with the Christian mission and values of Christian Education Ministries.
• A strategic and proactive mindset, with the ability to anticipate and respond to communication needs.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport and trust with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism, especially when handling sensitive information.
• A collaborative and positive team player who is eager to contribute to a shared vision.

Benefits

• Competitive salary, packaging, and benefits
• Supportive and collaborative Christian team culture
• NSW’s Central Coast is ideally located between Sydney and Newcastle, offering a vibrant coastal lifestyle
• Grow in your experience and skills
• Experience working in a Christian company with healthy values and culture
• Employee benefits package including WHEREFIT health & wellbeing exclusive discounts and EAP

About Christian Education Ministries (CEM)

CEM is a not-for-profit, non-denominational, protestant Christian organisation. CEM's head office is located on the Central Coast NSW but operates 16 schools, 3 childcare centres and a home schooling service across Australia in 5 states (NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, TAS). God has currently entrusted the organisation to educate and minister to 6,500 students across the group. Further, God has called over 800 committed staff members to CEM who are gifted to lead, teach and influence the next generation for eternity.

Join our innovative Teacher Traineeship Model offering a unique opportunity to earn as you learn in a school setting. Break away from traditional routes of studying teaching for 3-4 years before entering the classroom; instead, dive into practical teaching experience from day one, gradually increasing your in-school involvement throughout the program.

About the Role

As a Trainee Teacher, you will benefit from comprehensive support throughout your learning journey:

• CEM Teaching School Manager: Facilitating a supportive and excellent Christian Teacher Formation program in collaboration with a host school and tertiary partner Christian Heritage College.
• Christian University Lecturers / CEM specialists: Offering support and guidance on specific coursework, aligned with endorsed teaching degrees.
• School-based Teaching School Coordinator: facilitating the Christian Teacher Formation Program at the school level
• School-based Mentor Teacher: Guiding your development as a distinctly Christian educator, equipping you with practical wisdom

Applications will open again in March 2026.

About You

Are you a practicing Christian, passionate about pursuing a career in teaching but seek a more immersive and apprenticeship approach to your tertiary studies? Do you thrive in supportive environments where mentorship and support are readily available? Are you excited about integrating your Christian faith into your teaching practice? Would you like your tertiary fees offset by a scholarship? If so, you could be the ideal candidate for our Trainee Teacher program.

Benefits

Our scholarship program offers a range of benefits to successful candidates:

• Paid Teacher / Education Assistant position at a CEM school, with initial involvement of at least one day per week.
• Financial scholarship to alleviate tertiary course costs.
• MacBook provided to aid in completing formal work requirements.
• Ongoing employment as a teacher at a CEM School upon successful course completion.

How to Apply

Ready to embark on this transformative journey? Follow these steps:

1. Go to our Teacher Training School information page by clicking here.
2. Express your interest in the opportunity.
3. Meet with the CEM Teacher Training School Coordinator.
4. Participate in interviews with CEM Executive (held between September and mid-November annually).
5. Confirm ATAR or equivalent entry requirements for undergraduate degree.
6. Await notification of scholarship acceptance.

Candidates progressing through the selection process will be granted a conditional teacher traineeship, subject to meeting tertiary entrance requirements. Following this, you'll have the chance to visit your potential placement school and meet the Principal before commencing online lectures in late January/early February each year.

For further enquiries, please reach out to Anna Plant at [email protected].