Accounting and Payroll Specialist

Who we are? 

The pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (pCPA) brings together provincial, territorial, and federal governments for the purpose of increasing and managing access to clinically relevant and cost-effective medicines. Through collective negotiations, the pCPA has realized overall savings as of April 1, 2025) for governments of $3.94 billion annually for brand name drugs and $935 million annually for generic drugs totaling $4.87 billion annually.  The pCPA offers a 100% remote (within Canada) work environment.  

About the role  

The Accounting and Payroll Specialist is responsible for full-cycle accounting and financial operations including payroll and financial close processes.  This role ensures accurate, timely and compliant financial activities in accordance with legislative and organizational requirements, maintains strong internal controls and provides reliable accounting support across the organization. 

The role supports continuous improvement in financial processes and the enhancement of internal controls and delivers consistent, high-quality service to employees and leaders that support effective decision-making. 

Specific deliverables and authorities 

Main function 

• Support financial operations through budgeting assistance, financial reporting, variance analysis and maintenance of accurate financial records. 

• Prepare financial statements, dashboards, and documents; assists with audit preparations and inquiries. 

• Manage full-cycle Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable, including invoice processing, reconciliations, billing and follow ups. 

• Process and audit bi-weekly and monthly payroll for employees across multiple jurisdictions 

• Maintain payroll systems, update employee records, ensure compliance with legislation, and prepare payroll reports and tax-related documents 

• Administer group benefits and pension plans, including enrolments, remittances, reconciliations, and employee support. 

• Educate employees on benefits (including eligibility, coverage details, and program changes). 

• Update and reconcile benefits information and invoices int the system and serve as the primary point of contact for all benefits-related inquiries and issues.  

• Maintains internal controls and ensures compliance with organizational policies and procedures.  

• Identify process improvements, maintain accurate electronic files, and support cross-departmental initiatives and organizational activities.  

• Serve as the primary point of contact and communicate with external entities, including CRA, benefit plan administrators and auditors, ensuring accurate information exchange and timely resolution of inquiries or issues.     

• Provides guidance and support to managers and employees on payroll-related questions. 

Accountability  

• Accountable to the Executive Director, Corporate Services 

• Acts as a backup for other accounting and payroll positions. 

Qualifications  

Education and experience  

• Bachelor's degree in business administration with a specialization in accounting, finance, commerce or related field.  

• 5 years of experience working as an accounting and payroll specialist or in a similar role, including 1 to 3 years in a unionized environment. 

• Extensive knowledge and application of accounting principles, payroll practices and compliance across multiple jurisdictions, including Quebec. 

• Member of National Payroll Institute/Canadian Payroll Association or equivalent certification is an asset. 

• CPA designation is an asset. 

• Experience working in a government or regulatory organization is an asset. 

Skills and abilities

• As English is the primary working language at the pCPA, exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English are required.    

• Effective written and verbal communication skills in French (asset). 

• Strong knowledge of payroll and/or accounting system is required. 

• Exceptional abilities in time management, work duties organization and prioritization. 

• Ability to exercise diplomacy, tact and discretion when working with confidential and/or sensitive information.   

• Strong detail orientation and drive for accuracy  

• Exceptional partners engagement abilities, committed to building an effective and dynamic organizational culture.  

• Proven problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and ability to exercise astute judgment 

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and SharePoint.  

• Strong business and digital acumen. 

Employment terms

• Temporary job; 12-month contract. 

• The salary range for this full-time temporary position, is $89,404 - $126,175. This range reflects the salary for candidates with varying experience levels, job knowledge, and qualifications relevant to the position. Specific offers will be based on individual backgrounds and qualifications.

• The work hours for this position is 36.25 hours per week.   

• The pCPA provides a group benefits package for temporary employees from the first day of employment.

• The ideal candidate must be legally eligible to work in Canada and can work from any location within Canada
• This position requires frequent travel in different provinces and territories, including periodic multi-day, overnight trips.  

If you are interested in this position, please submit your application by the end of Wednesday, June 17, 2026.

We thank all those who apply; however, only those chosen for further consideration will be contacted.

The pCPA is an equal-opportunity employer. In accordance with the Accessible Canada Act, 2019, and all applicable provincial accessibility standards, the pCPA will provide accommodation for applicants with disabilities upon request throughout the recruitment, selection, and/or assessment process.