Payroll Specialist - US and Canada

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 ResponsibilitiesFull-Cycle Payroll ProcessingProcess bi-weekly payroll for Canadian and U.S. employees (hourly and salaried)Ensure accurate calculation of earnings, deductions, and benefit premiumsPayroll Compliance & Tax FilingPrepare and reconcile year-end filings, including:T4s, T4As, RL-1s, W-2sManage and reconcile: EHT and WSIB filingsU.S. workers' compensationLiaise with and respond to inquiries from: CRA, WSIB, IRS, and U.S. state/local tax authoritiesPayroll Reporting & AnalysisGenerate payroll reports for HR and Finance using system dataPrepare payroll analysis, headcount reporting, and variance insightsSupport budgeting and forecasting activities with payroll dataProduce reports related to benefits (e.g., 401(k), RRSP uploads) and distribute to internal stakeholdersSystem & Process OptimizationAct as a key contributor in improving payroll processes and workflowsReview and streamline existing payroll proceduresMaximize use of Dayforce functionality and reduce manual tasksCollaborate with HRIS and HR teams to improve data flow and integrationSupport or lead payroll system enhancements and implementation initiativesIdentify opportunities for automation, efficiency, and accuracy improvementsHR & Cross-Functional SupportPartner with HR on employee data changes (new hires, terminations, job changes)Ensure proper segregation of duties between HR and payrollRespond to employee inquiries related to payroll, deductions, and benefitsYear-End & Audit SupportCoordinate and execute year-end payroll processesPrepare audit-ready documentation and support internal and external auditsEnsure accurate reconciliation of all payroll accounts and remittancesQualificationsDiploma or Degree in Accounting, Payroll, Human Resources, or a related fieldPCP or PLP designation is highly preferredMinimum 5+ years of full-cycle payroll experienceStrong experience processing both Canadian and U.S. payroll (multi-province and multi-state)Solid understanding of U.S. state/local payroll tax requirementsExperience with payroll systems such as Dayforce (highly preferred); ADP WFN or UKG also consideredExperience with payroll system implementation or optimization is a strong assetTechnical SkillsAdvanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, lookups, reporting)Strong experience generating reports directly from payroll systemsFamiliarity with payroll tax filings and reconciliations across jurisdictionsKey CompetenciesStrong attention to detail and high level of accuracyHighly organized with the ability to manage multiple prioritiesExcellent verbal and written communication skillsStrong problem-solving and analytical abilitiesAbility to work independently with minimal supervisionConfidentiality and discretion in handling sensitive dataProcess improvement mindset—always looking for better ways to do thingsWhat's in it for youOpportunity to own and improve a complex, cross-border payroll functionDirect impact on streamlining processes and enhancing Dayforce utilizationCompetitive base salary and bonusComprehensive benefits and RRSPPaid vacation and sick daysHybrid work modelCollaborative environment with HR and FinanceRobert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.This job posting is for a current vacancy with our client.Our specialized recruiting professionals apply their expertise and utilize our proprietary AI to find you great job matches faster.Questions? Call your local office at View phone number on ca.talent.com. All applicants applying for Canadian job openings must be authorized to work in Canada.Only job postings for jobs located in Quebec appear in French.© 2025 Robert Half. By clicking "Apply," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use and Privacy Notice.