Senior Analyst, Payroll

Senior Analyst, Payroll

WHO WE ARE

Our Power, Your Possibilities

At TransAlta , we don’t just generate electricity-we generate opportunity. As one of Canada’s largest publicly traded power generators, we’ve been powering communities for over 100 years across Canada, the U.S., and Australia. Our diverse energy portfolio and passionate team are driving the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

We believe in the power of purpose, the strength of collaboration, and the value of continuous learning. If you’re ready to make a real impact in a dynamic industry, you bring the energy - we’ll provide the platform .

ABOUT THE ROLE

We’re looking for a Senior Analyst, Payroll to join our Total Rewards team. Reporting to the Manager, Payroll & HR Data, you’ll play a critical role in maintaining payroll integrity while supporting system enhancements, compliance requirements, and audit readiness.

In this role, you’ll take ownership of end-to-end U.S. payroll processing for a multi-state and union workforce, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely delivery of payroll outputs, filings, and financial postings within our SAP system . You’ll also provide cross-border support to Canadian payroll, helping ensure continuity across our operations.

This position is based out of our Downtown Calgary Head Office , with the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule .

A DAY IN THE LIFE

• Lead end-to-end U.S. payroll processing in SAP for a multi-state workforce (hourly and salaried)
• Execute the full payroll cycle including calculations, validations, payments, and GL postings
• Manage third-party remittances including benefits, garnishments, and payroll taxes
• Administer garnishments end-to-end, including setup, compliance, remittance, and employee support
• Ensure compliance with U.S. federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including quarterly and annual filings (SUTA, FUTA, W-2s)
• Investigate payroll discrepancies, resolve complex issues, and respond to employee inquiries
• Act as a subject matter expert for U.S. payroll within SAP, supporting testing, system updates, and UAT activities
• Support payroll for unionized employees, interpreting and applying collective agreement provisions
• Perform payroll reconciliations, maintain strong controls, and support audit readiness
• Collaborate with HR, Finance, and business stakeholders to continuously improve payroll processes

ABOUT YOU

• PCP or PLP designation is required
• 5+ years of U.S. payroll experience in a multi-state environment is preferred
• Hands-on SAP Payroll experience, including testing and UAT is essential
• Strong knowledge of U.S. payroll legislation, tax filings, and compliance requirements
• Experience managing full-cycle payroll, including payments and GL postings
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines in a high-volume environment
• Strong communication skills and ability to partner across teams
• Experience with union payroll and/or cross-border (Canada/U.S.) payroll is an asset
• High level of discretion handling confidential employee information

THE PERKS

• Competitive salary
• Annual Incentive Compensation
• Company-matching pension plan
• Flexible health benefits for you and your family
• Generous vacation and personal days
• Learning and development programs
• Employee recognition and rewards
• Annual wellness allowance

Explore our Careers site to see how we support your growth and wellbeing .

OUR CULTURE

At TransAlta, we’re driven by a Culture of Results, Learning and Purpose. We prioritize psychological safety, wellbeing, inclusion and belonging - creating a space where everyone can thrive. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation and progress, and we’re committed to building a workplace where you can be your authentic self.

Ready to Power Up With Us? Excited about this role but don’t meet every single requirement? We still encourage you to apply. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for a job unless they meet every single qualification. You might just be the candidate we are looking for.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The successful candidate may be required to complete background checks appropriate to the role and may include criminal record, education and employment verification or credit checks. ‘Safety sensitive’ positions will be required to complete pre-employment testing.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, only those progressing will be contacted.