Payroll Administrator (Contract)

Reporting to the Payroll Supervisor, the Payroll Administrator (Contract) will be responsible for end‑to‑end payroll processing and providing comprehensive administrative support across all payroll activities. This role ensures accurate payroll execution, timely employee lifecycle processing, journal entries in the accounting system and continuous improvement of payroll templates and processes. The successful candidate is highly proficient in Microsoft Excel and comfortable using AI tools to improve efficiency, accuracy, and analysis.

What We Offer
•    Employee & Family Assistance Program
•    Product Purchase Program
•    Opportunities to take part in job-related training and development
•    Growth & progression opportunities within the larger J.D. Irving group of companies (if applicable)

Payroll Processing & Employee Lifecycle

• Process full-cycle payroll accurately and on schedule in compliance with applicable legislation and company policies
• Set up new hires in payroll and HR systems, ensuring accurate pay, deductions, and benefits
• Process employee terminations, including final pay calculations and issuance of Records of Employment (ROEs)
• Maintain accurate employee payroll records and respond to payroll-related inquiries

Payroll Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare and post payroll-related journal entries
• Develop, maintain, and update payroll analysis sheets to support reconciliation, reporting, and audits
• Assist with payroll costing, variance analysis, and internal reporting as required

Invoicing & Templates

• Prepare and process payroll-related invoices with accuracy and attention to detail
• Create, update, and maintain payroll templates, spreadsheets, and standard documents
• Continuously improve templates and workflows to enhance efficiency and data integrity

Administrative & Payroll Support

• Provide administrative support across all payroll activities, including documentation, tracking, and reporting
• Support audits, reviews, and compliance requests related to payroll
• Collaborate with HR, Finance, and other departments to resolve payroll issues and improve processes

Technology & Process Improvement

• Use advanced Microsoft Excel functions (e.g., formulas, pivot tables, lookups) to manage and analyze payroll data
• Leverage AI tools to automate repetitive tasks, improve accuracy, and streamline payroll and reporting processes
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in payroll systems, processes, and controls

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience in payroll processing, including new hires and terminations
• Strong knowledge of Records of Employment (ROEs) and payroll compliance requirements
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Experience preparing journal entries, analysis sheets, and invoices
• Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion and professionalism

Preferred Qualifications 

• Payroll certification (e.g., PCP or equivalent) – preferred, but not required
• Experience in a multi‑payroll environment (Canadian and US payroll)
• Familiarity with payroll and accounting systems
• Knowledge of payroll benefits and labor laws (Canada and US)
• Demonstrated experience using AI tools to support administrative, analytical, or payroll functions

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and accuracy