We are seeking a highly skilled Payroll Specialist to manage full-cycle payroll across both Canada and the United States. This role will be responsible for processing payroll a multi-province payroll and multi-state payroll for under 300 employees.

This is a hands-on role with a strong focus on accuracy, compliance, and process improvement, particularly as the organization looks to streamline and optimize its payroll operations and better leverage its Dayforce system.

Key Responsibilities

Full-Cycle Payroll Processing

• Process bi-weekly payroll for Canadian and U.S. employees (hourly and salaried)
• Ensure accurate calculation of earnings, deductions, and benefit premiums

Payroll Compliance & Tax Filing

• Prepare and reconcile year-end filings, including:
• T4s, T4As, RL-1s, W-2s
• Manage and reconcile: EHT and WSIB filings
• U.S. workers’ compensation
• Liaise with and respond to inquiries from: CRA, WSIB, IRS, and U.S. state/local tax authorities

Payroll Reporting & Analysis

• Generate payroll reports for HR and Finance using system data
• Prepare payroll analysis, headcount reporting, and variance insights
• Support budgeting and forecasting activities with payroll data
• Produce reports related to benefits (e.g., 401(k), RRSP uploads) and distribute to internal stakeholders

System & Process Optimization

• Act as a key contributor in improving payroll processes and workflows
• Review and streamline existing payroll procedures
• Maximize use of Dayforce functionality and reduce manual tasks
• Collaborate with HRIS and HR teams to improve data flow and integration
• Support or lead payroll system enhancements and implementation initiatives
• Identify opportunities for automation, efficiency, and accuracy improvements

HR & Cross-Functional Support

• Partner with HR on employee data changes (new hires, terminations, job changes)
• Ensure proper segregation of duties between HR and payroll
• Respond to employee inquiries related to payroll, deductions, and benefits

Year-End & Audit Support

• Coordinate and execute year-end payroll processes
• Prepare audit-ready documentation and support internal and external audits
• Ensure accurate reconciliation of all payroll accounts and remittances

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Payroll, Human Resources, or a related field
• PCP or PLP designation is highly preferred
• Minimum 5+ years of full-cycle payroll experience
• Strong experience processing both Canadian and U.S. payroll (multi-province and multi-state)
• Solid understanding of U.S. state/local payroll tax requirements
• Experience with payroll systems such as Dayforce (highly preferred); ADP WFN or UKG also considered
• Experience with payroll system implementation or optimization is a strong asset

Technical Skills

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, lookups, reporting)
• Strong experience generating reports directly from payroll systems
• Familiarity with payroll tax filings and reconciliations across jurisdictions

Key Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Confidentiality and discretion in handling sensitive data
• Process improvement mindset—always looking for better ways to do things

What’s in it for you

• Opportunity to own and improve a complex, cross-border payroll function
• Direct impact on streamlining processes and enhancing Dayforce utilization
• Competitive base salary and bonus
• Comprehensive benefits and RRSP
• Paid vacation and sick days
• Hybrid work model
• Collaborative environment with HR and Finance

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