Payroll Administrator

About the Role

The City of Victoria's Finance Department is looking for a meticulous and organized Payroll Administrator responsible for accurately processing payroll and managing employee benefits for approximately 1400 staff. Initially, the emphasis will be on benefits administration with the possibility of expanding to comprehensive payroll operations. This temporary full-time role spans up to 12 months with a standard Monday to Friday workweek totaling 35 hours. The position is primarily onsite at City Hall with eligibility for hybrid work, allowing up to two days remote per week in accordance with City policy.

Core Responsibilities

• Administer payroll records, including personal details, pay rates, deductions, and benefits across unionized and exempt employees.
• Calculate payroll adjustments such as senior pay and manual cheques; batch, verify, and post payroll transactions, reconciling totals against controls.
• Manage payroll deductions including income tax, CPP, EI, superannuation, medical and dental benefits, extended health, group life insurance, charitable donations, and savings bonds.
• Assist with preparation of T4 slips, pension reports, and payroll year-end processes.
• Oversee WorkSafeBC claims and premium calculations and remittances.
• Administer employee benefits programs, including medical, dental, extended health, and collect recoveries from those on leave or retired.
• Calculate and apply garnishments and family maintenance orders.
• Maintain and track vacation and sick leave balances, following up on any overpayments of benefits.
• Monitor payments for temporary appointments to ensure accuracy.
• Respond to payroll and benefit inquiries from employees, unions, departments, and external agencies.
• Prepare required reports and forms including records of employment and WorkSafeBC earnings.
• Conduct financial analyses and reconciliations as needed.
• Perform additional duties as qualified and assigned.

Working Context

• Work follows firm schedules, policies, and procedures under supervisor direction; deviations require supervisor approval.
• Physical demands include frequent use of keyboards and calculators and occasional unsupported sitting.
• High mental focus required for meeting multiple deadlines, processing payroll accurately, and conducting reconciliations.
• Office setting with use of computer screens and source documents requiring visual attention.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• High school diploma required; completion of level two of CGA or CMA accounting programs preferred.
• Certification as a Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) is required.
• A minimum of two years relevant payroll experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proficiency in payroll legislation and accounting techniques related to payroll.
• Strong Excel and spreadsheet competency as used by the City of Victoria.
• Effective use of calculators with speed and precision.
• Capable of organizing work efficiently and meeting strict deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities and ability to maintain good working relationships.

Additional Information

• This unionized position (CUPE Local 50) has a salary of $44.25 per hour, Pay Grade 11.
• There is one vacancy available.
• The role may require substitution in a more senior capacity as needed.
• The City of Victoria values diversity and inclusivity and encourages individuals from Indigenous, racialized, immigrant, disabled, 2SLGBTQIA+, or other underrepresented communities to apply.
• Accommodations are provided upon request throughout the hiring process.