Payroll & Benefit Specialist

Job Description

Payroll & Benefit Specialist

Downtown Toronto

Our client, an outstanding law firm located in the core of downtown Toronto seeks a Payroll & Benefits Specialist who will support the Payroll Manager and will assist in processing all payroll and compensation for the firm and administering the benefit programs.

Candidates require a minimum of 5 years' experience processing full cycle payroll, preferably in a law firm.

The ideal candidate must be highly organized, detail oriented, and have the ability to work with and identify confidential information. The successful candidate should be a strong team player with customer service mentality for both internal and external clients, as well as a strong sense of urgency and judgement is essential in this role.

Responsibilities:

Payroll

• Process payroll for all firm employees in compliance with applicable legislation and firm policies;
• Maintain and update Payroll and HRIS systems (UKG) for new hires, terminations, salary changes, promotions, leaves of absence, and other status changes as directed;
• Calculate and validate amounts due and statutory taxes to be withheld and remitted on special payments, such as bonus, retroactive pay, leave of absence and termination pay, in accordance with legislative requirements;
• Validate, reconcile, and remit all statutory deductions and source withholdings (CPP, EI, Income tax, EHT), liaising with government agencies as required;
• Prepare payroll journal entries and perform monthly reconciliations of payroll‑related general ledger accounts;
• Conduct post‑payroll analysis to identify discrepancies, trends, and required adjustments;
• Prepare and submit Records of Employment (ROEs) through Service Canada;
• Complete year‑end payroll reconciliation, ensuring accurate reporting of wages, benefits, taxes, and related expenses;
• Assist year‑end payroll processes, including preparation and filing of T4 slips;
• Monitor changes in payroll legislation and recommend process or system updates to ensure ongoing compliance;
• Support the evaluation and implementation of payroll technology enhancements and process automation initiatives;

Benefits

• Enrol and terminate employees in benefit plans, including management of life event changes;
• Ensure accurate setup in payroll and benefit systems;
• Reconcile monthly benefits invoices (Health & Dental, AD&D, LTD) and submit for management approval;
• Audit benefit plan participation against payroll deductions and resolve discrepancies promptly;
• Administer the firm’s RRSP program, including eligibility tracking, enrolment, payroll deductions, and record maintenance;
• Reconcile RRSP contributions monthly and prepare reports for management review;

Other

• Respond promptly and professionally to confidential payroll, compensation, and benefits inquiries from firm members;
• Assist the Payroll Manager and departmental leaders with annual salary review and budgeting processes;
• Generate payroll and benefits reports for Finance and HR as needed;
• Maintain accurate, confidential records and supporting documentation in iManage for audit and compliance purposes;
• Support payroll audits and internal reviews by providing documentation and explanations as required;
• Support payroll and benefits projects and special initiatives as required;
• Produce the highest quality of work;

Requirements:

• Minimum 5 years' experience in a similar capacity, preferably in a law firm or professional services environment;
• Post-secondary education or professional training in Accounting, Payroll, HR or a related field;
• Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) designation required;
• Sound knowledge of employment standards, payroll legislation, and compliance requirements;
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (advanced Excel), payroll/HRIS systems (UKG preferred), and document management systems (iManage);
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines with accuracy;
• Some overtime is required;

Skills:

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications;
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills;
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• Customer‑service mindset with the ability to remain calm and composed under pressure;
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team;
• High level of professionalism and discretion when handling confidential information;

Interested candidates should apply today! We thank all applicants for their interest in this role however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Thank you for your interest in Linds & Associates Ltd.