Payroll, Pension & Benefits Analyst

SAIT; Calgary; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll, Pension & Benefits Analyst to ensure the accuracy of payroll and benefits accounts. This role involves collaborating with various internal teams and external partners, managing payroll reconciliations, and supporting audits. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in payroll management and financial accounting, along with excellent analytical and communication skills. Join a forward-thinking organization that values equity, diversity, and inclusion, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others while advancing your career in a supportive environment.

Benefits

4 Weeks Vacation

14 Flex Days per year

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in payroll, pension, and benefits administration.
• Strong written and presentation skills are essential.
• Experience with continuous improvement initiatives is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Ensure accuracy of payroll, pension, and benefits accounts.
• Support payroll and pension audits and assist with year-end activities.
• Collaborate with HR and Finance on pension-related processes.

Skills

Payroll Management

Pension Management

Financial Accounting

Customer Service

Analytical Skills

Problem Solving

Communication Skills

Education

Post-secondary diploma or degree in HR, Business Administration, or Finance

Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) certification

Tools

HRIS systems (preferably Banner)

Advanced Excel

Job description

The Finance department is seeking to expand its team. If you have a strong aptitude for numbers and are passionate about finance, we would like to meet you.

The Opportunity

Are you detail-oriented with a passion for payroll and pension management? We are looking for a dedicated Payroll, Pension & Benefits Analyst to join our team. Reporting to the Manager, Payroll, you will ensure the accuracy of our payroll, pension, group savings, and benefits accounts. This role offers the chance to collaborate with internal teams and external partners, including Finance, Total Rewards, Alberta Pension Services (APS), and other benefit providers.

The Role

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

Qualifications & Experience

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

Job classification

Pay and Benefits Specialist II

Salary range

$80,000-95,000

Paid Leave

4 Weeks Vacation / 14 Flex Days per year

# of positions

1

Hours Per Week

37.5

Posting closing date

May 15, 2025

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) are 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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