Payroll and Benefits Specialist

Who We Are:

Aird & Berlis LLP is a prominent Canadian business law firm located in the heart of Toronto’s and Vancouver’s financial districts. With over 250 lawyers, business advisors and patent agents, we serve clients across Canada and globally.

What We Believe In:

The firm is committed to ensuring that all members of the Aird & Berlis LLP community feel valued, respected and supported. We are a dedicated group of diverse individuals who care about each other, the work we produce and the client service we provide. We go to great lengths to foster a professional, supportive environment for all firm members so you can focus on the important things: client service, your career and your life.

What We Are Looking For:

Aird & Berlis LLP has an existing vacancy for 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;
• Accountable for all work assigned;
• Takes initiative;
• Confidential;

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;

Compensation:

• The salary range for this position is $65,000- $85,000 annually; the base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal and market equity.

Why You Should Apply:

• Opportunities for growth and on the job training and development
• Competitive compensation and benefits package
• We pride ourselves on being a mid-sized firm with a family feel
• Active involvement in our community with opportunities to volunteer
• Mentor program
• Wellness Programs

Any offer of employment will be conditional upon a criminal background check. 

We will review applications as they are received and all applications will be kept on file. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Aird & Berlis LLP is committed to providing equal access to employment. If you require accommodation, please contact ckelly@airdberlis.com and we will work with you to provide accessibility support.