Payroll Specialist

Our prestigious, non-profit client is seeking an experienced Payroll Specialist for an exciting contract opportunity running until March 31st, 2026. The ideal candidate will have a completed or in progress Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP), along with 3+ years of hands-on payroll administration experience. This will include a strong understanding of Canadian payroll legislation, including Quebec, and related compliance requirements. The ideal candidate will be available to work onsite 2 days/week from either the Ottawa or North York location.

As a Payroll Specialist, you will play a key role in ensuring the accurate, timely, and compliant delivery of payroll services across the organization. This position is responsible for processing the semi-monthly payroll, maintaining compliance with applicable legislation and organizational policies, and contributing to ongoing improvements in their payroll and compensation processes.

Key Responsibilities:

Responsibilities will include but may not be limited to the following:

• Prepare, calculate, and process the semi-monthly payroll in the ERP software system, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and full compliance with federal and provincial regulations. Conduct thorough reviews of payroll inputs and perform quality assurance checks to maintain data accuracy and integrity.
• Calculate and track pension payments for employees on long-term disability (LTD), ensuring accurate updates to third-party systems with employee details. Develop and maintain payroll process documentation to support consistent, accurate, and timely execution of all payroll-related activities.
• Review and process documentation for new hires, terminations, and leaves of absence. Calculate and execute final payments, including vacation entitlements and termination payouts, ensuring accuracy and compliance with organizational policies and applicable legislation.
• Prepare and submit government and regulatory reports, including Records of Employment (ROEs), Employer Health Tax filings, and benefit remittances. Maintain comprehensive payroll documentation and ensure all activities comply with organization's policies and applicable legislation.
• Support year-end tax processes, including the preparation of T2200s, T4s, R1s, pension statements, and audits, ensuring accuracy and timely completion of all required deadlines.
• Reconcile payroll accounts, prepare third-party remittances, and provide detailed supporting documentation for Finance audits, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely reporting.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to streamline payroll processes, improve efficiency, and ensure accuracy across all payroll operations.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll inquiries. Provide clear and timely explanations of payroll deductions, verify employment information, and respond to staff questions to ensure a positive and accurate payroll experience.

Qualifications & Experience

• 3-5 years of hands-on payroll administration experience, ideally in a complex or multi-jurisdictional environment
• College diploma or undergraduate degree in Commerce, Business Administration, or equivalent education and experience
• Completed or in progress Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) designation
• Strong understanding of Canadian payroll legislation, including Quebec, and related compliance requirements
• Understanding of Defined Benefit Pension Plans
• Experience with HRIS systems, familiarity with Unit4 ERP is considered a strong asset
• Proficiency in Advanced Excel and general Microsoft Office Suite applications
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy, with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines while working in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a strong customer service orientation
• Fluency in English is required and bilingualism in English and French considered a strong asset
• Availability to start a new role ideally within 1 week of notice and commit to a contract running until Mar 31st, 2026