About the role

The Payroll & Financial Accountant is responsible for accurately processing payroll, managing financial records, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, a strong understanding of accounting principles, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

1. Payroll Processing:

• Calculate and process employee salaries, wages, bonuses, and deductions accurately and on time.
• Manage the time and attendance system (ADP).
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of bi-weekly payroll.
• Maintain payroll records, including timesheets, tax withholdings, and benefits information.
• Prepare WCB, WSIB and WorkSafeBC filings and returns.
• Prepare payroll journal entries and monthly payroll accruals.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations.
• Prepare T4’s, T5’s, and other tax returns and schedules, as required.
• Liaise between group benefits provider and company.
• Address payroll-related inquiries and discrepancies from employees.

2. Financial Accounting:

• Maintain and balance various accounts using computerized bookkeeping systems (SAGE).
• Record financial transactions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger entries.
• Reconcile bank statements and financial accounts to ensure accuracy.
• Post month end journal entries and reconcile balance sheet accounts.
• Prepare financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
• Assist in the month-end and year-end closing processes.

3. Compliance and Reporting: 

• Stay updated on relevant tax laws, labor regulations, and accounting standards.
• Prepare and submit payroll and tax reports to government agencies as required.
• Ensure compliance with internal financial policies and procedures.

4. Data Analysis:

• Analyze financial data to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for cost savings or revenue generation.
• Assist in budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Perform variance analysis on expense accounts as needed

5. Documentation and Record Keeping:

• Maintain organized and accurate records of financial transactions and payroll-related information.
• Assist in audits by providing necessary documentation and explanations.

6. Other ad hoc projects (process improvement, best practices) as required.
7. Other duties as assigned by Supervisor or Management

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is a plus.
• Prior experience in payroll processing and financial accounting.
• Strong knowledge of payroll software and accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, ADP).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other relevant software applications.
• Excellent attention to detail and numerical accuracy.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of tax laws, labor regulations, and accounting principles.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• High level of integrity and ability to maintain confidentiality.