Payroll Specialist

About Taproot Community Support Services

Taproot Community Support Services is a 100% employee-owned organization operating under an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). As a Certified B Corporation, Taproot uses business as a force for good with operations in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario across more than 90 contracts. With over 800 employee-owners, the organization supports around 1,600 children, youth, families, and people with diverse abilities, generating revenues exceeding $70 million annually. The company upholds values such as collaboration, optimism, respect, and dedication to excellence.

Role Overview

The Payroll Specialist is integral to the Payroll & Benefits team, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant payroll services for over 800 employees across multiple provinces, managing a variety of collective agreements, benefit plans, pension schemes, and funding structures. The role supports employee experience by handling payroll processing, benefits administration, and compliance, offering significant opportunity for professional growth in a dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute bi-weekly payroll for staff in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario with precision and timely reporting.
• Address and resolve any discrepancies or payroll-related issues swiftly.
• Collaborate with HR, IT, and Finance departments to maintain accurate employee information within HRIS and payroll software.
• Keep abreast of provincial payroll legislation and employment standards to sustain compliance.
• Prepare and submit payroll reports including tax filings, Workers' Compensation Board reports, and union dues.
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding payroll matters such as pay differences, deductions, and tax withholding.
• Support HR initiatives concerning payroll and benefits enhancement, including adjustments due to collective agreements.
• Work alongside the HRIS Specialist to troubleshoot system issues ensuring smooth payroll operations.
• Manage end-of-year payroll tasks like issuance of T4 slips, Records of Employment, and statutory reports.
• Provide exemplary customer service in all payroll and benefits interactions.
• Administer employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, life insurance, pension, retirement plans, and other voluntary benefits.
• Coordinate benefit plan open enrollments, renewals, contract premium updates adhering to payroll deadlines.
• Serve as the primary contact for employee questions about benefits coverage, eligibility, and claims.
• Liaise with benefits providers and brokers to handle administrative concerns.
• Verify and update employee data changes such as onboarding, terminations, compensation updates, and deductions.
• Applicants must provide a current Criminal Record Check and/or Government Screening Letter as part of employment confirmation, with province and sector specifics conveyed by the hiring team.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate enjoys ownership of their work, displays curiosity, professionalism, and is dedicated to continuous improvement. They thrive in collaborative environments, are adept at problem solving, and are committed to confidentiality and high service standards.

Qualifications and Experience

• Between 3 to 5 years' experience in Canadian payroll and benefits administration.
• Possession or willingness to pursue Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) or Payroll Leadership Professional (PLP) certification.
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, employment standards, and benefits administration.
• Experience in unionized payroll environments is a significant asset.
• Comfortable with technology, eager to learn and adapt to new HRIS and payroll platforms.
• Excellent communication skills suited for interaction with employees, management, vendors, and colleagues.
• Meticulous attention to detail while managing competing priorities in a fast-paced setting.
• A proactive problem-solving attitude and readiness to support the team.
• Commitment to integrity, confidentiality, and exceptional customer service.

Work Schedule and Location

This is a permanent full-time position with a typical schedule of Monday through Friday, from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, totaling 40 hours per week. The role is based primarily at the Support Staff office in Langley, British Columbia, with flexible options for a hybrid remote work model to be discussed during the interview process.

Additional Information

Taproot values diversity and inclusion and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization fosters a welcoming environment committed to equitable opportunities and support for all employee-owners.

Employee Benefits and Culture

• Employee ownership from day one through the Employee Ownership Trust, including profit-sharing dividends.
• Balanced work-life integration.
• Opportunities for professional growth and career development.
• Competitive salary and paid vacation.
• Eligibility for defined benefit pension plans and matching RRSPs depending on province.
• Access to Employee and Family Assistance Programs.
• Recognition for long service milestones.
• Employee referral bonuses.
• A mission-driven and values-oriented workplace environment as a Certified B Corporation.