Payroll, Pension & Benefits Analyst

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT); Calgary; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading educational institution as a Payroll, Pension & Benefits Analyst. This role involves ensuring financial accuracy in payroll and pension management, collaborating with various partners, and implementing process improvements. Ideal candidates are detail-oriented with strong analytical and communication skills, and possess relevant certifications and experience.

Benefits

4 Weeks Vacation

14 Flex Days per year

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in payroll, pension, benefits administration.
• Experience in financial accounting and a unionized environment is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Reconcile payroll accounts and statutory deductions.
• Support internal and external payroll and pension audits.
• Prepare payroll, pension, and benefit-related journal entries.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Customer Service

Analytical Skills

Problem Solving

Communication

Education

Post-secondary diploma or degree in human resources

Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) certification

Tools

HRIS systems

Excel

Job description

Join to apply for the Payroll, Pension & Benefits Analyst role at Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)

The Finance department loves when the math balances out — so we’re looking to add to our team. If you have a nose for numbers and believe your skills and passion match our requirements, you will have our undivided attention and we want to meet you.

The Opportunity

Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for payroll and pension management? We are seeking a dedicated Payroll, Pension & Benefits Analyst to join our team. Reporting to the Manager, Payroll, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the financial accuracy of our payroll, pension, group savings, and benefits accounts. This is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with internal and external partners, including Finance, Total Rewards, Alberta Pension Services (APS), and other benefit providers.

The Role

1. Reconcile payroll accounts and statutory deductions (CPP, EI, income tax).
2. Assist with calendar and year-end activities, including balancing and T4 / T4A reporting.
3. Support internal and external payroll and pension audits.
4. Provide backup for semi-monthly payroll processing.
5. Perform financial reconciliations of defined benefit and group savings programs.
6. Reconcile semi-monthly pension contributions; prepare and submit remittances.
7. Reconcile benefit payroll deductions, premiums and vendor invoices.
8. Collaborate with Total Rewards on pension-related changes, processes and audits.
9. Prepare payroll, pension and benefit-related journal entries, working papers and reconcile general ledger accounts.
10. Prepare and submit the annual WCB return.
11. Stay updated on pension plans, payroll legislation, and collective agreements.
12. Act as the main point of contact for pension and benefit deduction inquiries.
13. Prepare detailed reports and present findings to management.
14. Identify and implement process improvements.
15. Collaborate with HR, Finance, and external partners.
16. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Experience

1. Post-secondary diploma or degree in human resources, business administration, finance, or a related field.
2. Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) certification.
3. Minimum 5 years of experience in payroll, pension, benefits administration, or consulting.
4. Experience in financial accounting.
5. Experience in a unionized environment is an asset.
6. Knowledge of payroll and pension regulations and laws.
7. Experience with continuous improvement or project management initiatives is preferred.
8. Strong written and presentation skills.
9. Ability to manage priorities independently.
10. Strong customer service and professional judgment skills.
11. Proficiency with HRIS systems, preferably Banner.
12. Proficiency with LAPP & APS Portal is an asset.
13. Advanced Excel skills (designing spreadsheets, creating macros, key functions).
14. Critical thinker with the ability to evaluate and interpret data.
15. Problem solver who seeks opportunities for improvement.
16. Capable of working in ambiguity and finding optimal resolutions.
17. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
18. Effective communication and collaboration abilities.

Additional Information

Job classification : Pay and Benefits Specialist II

Salary range : $80,000-95,000

Paid Leave : 4 Weeks Vacation / 14 Flex Days per year

Number of positions : 1

About SAIT

SAIT is a global leader in applied education. Named one of Alberta’s Top Employers, we offer the chance to work with a purpose — preparing the next generation of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates and explorers.

Building on our 100+ year history, we’re looking for innovative, bold and collaborative employees who embrace change and deliver world-class customer experiences. Your future starts now at SAIT.

Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is essential to achieving SAIT’s vision to be a global leader in applied education. It creates the conditions for a healthy campus where everyone feels welcome, respected and empowered to succeed. SAIT values fairness, shared accountability and the importance of representation. The institution expects a commitment from its students and employees to continuously develop an equitable and inclusive mindset that celebrates diverse experiences and perspectives. Learn more about EDI at SAIT.

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