Payroll Specialist

Department: Finance Employment Type: Permanent Location: Toronto, ON Compensation: $65,000 - $75,000 / year

Description

Position Summary

Reporting to the Payroll Lead and operating within the Finance team, the Payroll Specialist provides operational and administrative support for the end-to-end payroll function. This role is responsible for assisting with payroll processing, employee data administration, reconciliations, compliance activities, and reporting, while also serving as a key backup resource to ensure business continuity and strengthen internal controls.

The Payroll Specialist works collaboratively with Human Resources, Finance, and employees to support accurate, timely, and compliant payroll operations while contributing to process improvements and enhanced payroll governance.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Processing Support Support the preparation and processing of semi-monthly payroll for GS1 employees. Review payroll input data including new hires, terminations, salary changes, benefits updates, RRSP deductions, taxable benefits, and other payroll adjustments. Validate payroll reports and identify discrepancies, variances, or unusual transactions for review. Assist with payroll balancing activities and post-payroll reconciliations. Support off-cycle payroll runs, retroactive adjustments, and special payments as required.

Payroll Administration & Employee Support

Maintain and update employee payroll records within payroll and HR systems. Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a timely and professional manner. Support administration of employee deductions, garnishments, benefits, pension/RRSP contributions, and taxable benefits. Assist with preparation and distribution of payroll-related documentation including Records of Employment (ROEs), T4s, T2200s and employment letters.

Compliance & Controls

Support payroll compliance with applicable federal and provincial legislation, CRA requirements, and internal policies. Assist with payroll remittances, reconciliations, and year-end activities. Maintain payroll documentation and audit support files. Participate in payroll process reviews and internal control enhancement initiatives. Ensure confidentiality and appropriate handling of sensitive employee information.

Reporting & Analysis

Prepare recurring and ad hoc payroll reports for Finance, HR, and management. Support payroll-related reconciliations to the general ledger. Assist in identifying trends, anomalies, and opportunities for process improvement.

Business Continuity, Process Improvement & Transformation

Act as backup support for payroll processing activities during absences or peak periods Assist in documenting payroll procedures and maintaining process documentation. Support payroll system enhancements, testing, and implementation activities. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, accuracy, and employee experience.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Diploma or degree in Payroll, Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field. PCP designation (Payroll Compliance Practitioner) or working toward designation is preferre 3-5 years of payroll administration experience, preferably in a mid-sized organization. Experience with payroll systems such as ADP, Ceridian, Workday, or similar platforms Strong understanding of payroll legislation, CRA regulations, and payroll best practices. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial reconciliation processes. Experience supporting payroll audits and year-end activities is an asset.