Payroll and Benefits Analyst

Description

The Payroll and Benefits Analyst is responsible for processing payroll for approximately 250–300 employees (including about 40 in Canada) and administering U.S. and Canadian benefit programs. This role ensures accurate and timely payroll processing, compliance with all local, state, federal, and provincial regulations, and seamless coordination between HR, Accounting, and Finance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Process biweekly payroll for U.S. and Canadian employees 
• Manage employee benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and retirement plans 
• Serve as backup for leave of absence (LOA) administration and compliance tracking
• Partner with Accounting to complete payroll journal entries and monthly benefit reconciliations
• Support year-end activities, including preparation of the 401(k) census, participation in the annual 401(k) audit, and coordination of requested documentation and follow-up items. 
• Support administration of the Canadian RSP, including employee enrollment, contribution updates, and coordination with the plan provider.
• Maintain accurate employee records, wage and deduction data, and tax documentation
• Provide payroll and benefits reporting and analysis to HR and Finance leadership
•  Manage annual and quarterly workers’ compensation reporting requirements in Canada, and support participation in the annual U.S. workers’ compensation audit, including preparation and submission of required payroll and employee data. 
• Ensure confidentiality, accuracy, and adherence to all payroll and benefits regulations
•  Partner with the payroll and HRIS provider on system updates, enhancements, configuration changes, and issue resolution to support evolving business and HR needs. 

Requirements

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of payroll processes, deductions, and tax compliance
• Experience with benefit administration and vendor coordination
• Excellent analytical and reconciliation skills with a high level of accuracy
• Proficiency with HRIS and payroll systems (Paylocity experience preferred)
• Advanced Excel skills for reporting and reconciliation (pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, etc.)
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to meet deadlines
• High level of discretion and ability to manage confidential information
• Effective communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset
  

Qualifications:

• 5 years of experience in end-to-end payroll and benefits administration
• Proven ability to run payrolls independently and accurately, including reconciliations and reporting
• Experience with multi-state and/or Canadian payroll preferred
• Degree in Accounting, Human Resources, or a related field preferred
• Familiarity with federal, state, and provincial compliance requirements