Specialist, Payroll

Position Overview

The Specialist, Payroll is responsible for ensuring timely and precise payment of employees in compliance with relevant legislation, collective bargaining agreements, and internal policies. Reporting to the Manager of Finance, this role supports payroll functions through processing, reconciliation, and effective utilization of integrated payroll and HR systems. The individual will collaborate closely with HR and Scheduling departments to verify data accuracy, resolve discrepancies, and prepare audit-supporting reports, ensuring compliance and aiding workforce planning. Additionally, the position participates in continuous improvements by providing feedback on workflows and contributing to system upgrades.

Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and execute biweekly payroll processing via integrated Payroll and HR Information Systems, confirming accuracy of wages, entitlements, shift premiums, statutory holidays, and deductions authorized.
• Maintain comprehensive payroll documentation, including tax forms, banking details, and leave balances, ensuring confidentiality and alignment with privacy laws and organizational policies.
• Track attendance and leave submissions, producing reports to flag excess usage, pending approvals, or potential payroll liabilities, escalating concerns to HR as outlined by collective agreements and organizational procedures.
• Address payroll queries from staff and supervisors, providing accurate, clear, and prompt responses and documentation.
• Handle payroll adjustments such as manual payments, retroactive payroll, leave supplements, WSIB advances, and court-ordered garnishments.
• Coordinate pension and benefit deduction processes, including HOOPP contributions and modifications related to employment status changes, leaves, and terminations.
• Work collaboratively with HR, Scheduling, and Occupational Health and Safety to ensure accurate system data entry, appropriate pay coding, and accommodate modified duties or workplace adjustments.
• Engage in payroll system testing, assist with configuration updates, and suggest workflow enhancements for improved accuracy and efficiency.
• Use reporting tools to verify payroll data integrity, identify discrepancies, and support reconciliation and remittance activities.
• Prepare detailed reports for internal audits, compliance checks, workforce planning, and approved external submissions.
• Escalate any privacy concerns or breaches following organizational policies and reporting requirements.
• Assist with statutory remittance reconciliations and year-end processes, including union dues, third-party transactions, T4 slips, Records of Employment, and pension adjustments.
• Periodically review payroll procedures and documentation to confirm they meet current legislation, collective agreements, and internal standards.
• Provide training or guidance to colleagues to ensure payroll continuity during absences and support administrative cross-coverage as necessary.

Qualifications and Experience

• Post-secondary diploma or degree in a relevant field.
• Certified Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) designation is mandatory.
• Two to four years of advancing payroll experience, preferably within unionized and/or not-for-profit organizations.

Skills and Competencies

• Thorough understanding of payroll legislation and regulatory frameworks.
• Skillful interpretation and application of collective agreements and internal policies.
• Strong analytical capabilities coupled with problem-solving skills to resolve payroll discrepancies.
• Excellent organizational aptitude to manage competing deadlines effectively.
• Meticulous attention to detail ensuring accuracy in payroll documentation and reporting.
• Effective communication and interpersonal abilities for collaboration and addressing internal inquiries.
• Proficiency in payroll and HRIS systems, advanced Excel skills, and data reporting tools.
• Adaptability and a willingness to learn new technologies and process improvements.

Working Conditions and Expectations

• The role requires extended periods of sitting during meetings and computer work.
• The job may entail moderate stress given day-to-day duties.
• Valid G class driver’s license and reliable transportation are required.
• Flexibility in working hours may be necessary to meet operational demands.

Employee Benefits

• Competitive compensation that acknowledges the role's importance.
• Participation in the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Access to Employee & Family Assistance Program (FSEAP).

Accessibility and Inclusion

The organization is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible workplace environment. Reasonable accommodations are provided throughout the recruitment and employment phases in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Applicants needing accommodations are encouraged to connect with Human Resources.

Additional Information

File Number: MNU-26-14
Posting Date: September 10, 2026
Hours of Work: 70 hours per pay period
Wage Range: $64,100 to $80,116 annually
This is a permanent vacancy.
Cover letter and current resume referencing the file number are required upon application.
The company does not employ artificial intelligence in selection decisions.