HR and Payroll Administrator

Portage Mutual; Canada; Hybrid; CAD 53,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Portage Mutual is seeking an HR and Payroll Administrator to support bi-weekly payroll, HRIS maintenance, and benefits administration. The role involves onboarding, offboarding, recruitment support, and ensuring compliance withCanadian employment standards.

The ideal candidate has 3–4 years of HR/payroll experience, post‑secondary education in HR or business, and familiarity with payroll software such as Workday. A professional designation is preferred and confidentiality is essential.

Qualifications

• 3-4 years of combined HR and payroll experience.
• Post-secondary education in HR, Business Administration, or a related field.
• An HR designation (or working towards one) is preferred; PCP certification is an asset.
• Experience with payroll software and HRIS platforms, ideally Workday or similar.

Responsibilities

• Provide backup support for bi-weekly payroll processing, including salary, benefits, deductions, and statutory remittances.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date records across our HRIS and payroll systems.
• Administer employee benefits programs, including enrollments, changes, and inquiries.
• Support day-to-day HR administration, including maintaining employee files and assisting with various HR tasks.
• Guide new hires through onboarding and support departing employees through a smooth offboarding process.
• Assist with recruitment by posting job ads, screening resumes, scheduling interviews, and conducting reference checks.
• Respond to employee questions regarding payroll, benefits, and HR policies with professionalism and discretion.
• Support HR projects and initiatives as needed.
• Help ensure compliance with employment legislation and company policy.

Skills

HR/payroll experience

Communication skills

Time management

Organization

Independence

Education

Post-secondary education in HR/Business Admin

Tools

Workday

HRIS

Job description

About Portage Mutual

Where Your Talent Makes a Difference Imagine a workplace where your contributions are not only valued but also directly impact the lives of Canadians. At Portage Mutual Insurance, we’re more than just a trusted national property and casualty insurer—we’re a community of passionate individuals dedicated to serving our policyholders since 1884. Owned by our policyholders, we proudly offer competitive home, auto, commercial, and farm insurance products 100% through our broker network across Canada. Join a company rooted in tradition, driven by innovation, and powered by a people-first culture.

Why Portage Mutual?

At Portage Mutual, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. Here, you’ll find:

• Total Rewards: We care about your well-being and financial security. That’s why we offer a competitive salary, incentive plan, comprehensive health benefits, a pension plan and generous paid time off, including personal days.
• Career Growth & Development: Propel your career forward with access to diverse learning resources, tuition reimbursement for relevant programs, and bonuses recognizing your achievements in pursuing insurance designations.
• Flexibility: We support work-life integration by offering a flexible environment where you can choose to live wherever you prefer in Canada. Enjoy the freedom to select remote, in-office, and hybrid work arrangements that best suit your lifestyle.
• Inclusivity and Belonging: Be a part of a supportive and diverse team that embraces your unique perspective and empowers you to succeed. We’re dedicated to creating a workplace where every employee feels welcomed, valued and respected.
• Making a Difference: Find purpose in your career by aligning with an organization that shares your values and is committed to making a difference in the communities we serve.

What You’ll Do

• Provide backup support for bi-weekly payroll processing, including salary, benefits, deductions, and statutory remittances.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date records across our HRIS and payroll systems.
• Administer employee benefits programs, including enrollments, changes, and inquiries.
• Support day-to-day HR administration, including maintaining employee files and assisting with various HR tasks.
• Guide new hires through onboarding and support departing employees through a smooth offboarding process.
• Assist with recruitment by posting job ads, screening resumes, scheduling interviews, and conducting reference checks.
• Respond to employee questions regarding payroll, benefits, and HR policies with professionalism and discretion.
• Support HR projects and initiatives as needed.
• Help ensure compliance with employment legislation and company policy.

What You Bring

• Post‑secondary education in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 3-4 years of combined HR and payroll experience.
• Experience with payroll software and HRIS platforms, ideally Workday or similar.
• Strong understanding of Canadian payroll legislation and employment standards.
• Experience supporting HR practices across multiple jurisdictions is an asset.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• An HR designation (or working towards one) is preferred; PCP certification is considered an asset.

Job Title: HR and Payroll Administrator

Reports To: Director, HR Strategic Programs & Initiatives

Location: Canada - Remote or Hybrid

Salary Range: $53,400 - $60,000 - Our pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum target for new hire pay for the full‑time position determined by role and level. The pay range shown is based on our compensation structure in place at the time of posting and may be updated periodically based on business needs. Individual pay is based on additional factors including job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education and/or training.

Recruitment Technology

Portage Mutual uses artificial intelligence and automations in its recruitment practices for activities that may include searching for qualified candidates, screening applications, preparing interview questions, recording interviews, drafting transcripts and other administrative tasks. AI is never used for decision making purposes.

Our Commitment to Diversity

We value diversity in backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives because the communities we serve are diverse. Rooted in a long‑standing commitment to trust, community, and mutual support, Portage Mutual Insurance is proud to foster an inclusive workplace where employees are encouraged to collaborate, learn from one another, and grow together. We are looking for individuals who bring both professional expertise and a genuine commitment to supporting their teammates as we continue to protect what matters most for Canadians.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

Portage Mutual Insurance is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace. Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process upon request. If you require accommodation, we will work with you to ensure a fair and positive candidate experience.

To be considered for this opportunity, candidates must have the legal right to work in Canada. Any employment offer will be conditional upon the successful completion of applicable pre‑employment screening requirements.

Life at Portage Mutual

Life at Portage Mutual is built on connection – to our work, the communities we serve, and each other. Our people work among collaborative teams where trust, respect, and support guide how we show up every day. We value shared success, open dialogue, and looking out for one another, creating an environment where employees feel welcomed, included, and proud of the impact they make together. Here, you’re not just joining an organization; you’re becoming part of a community.