Payroll Technician | Payroll and Benefits Specialist | Payroll Manager
Definition of payroll roles
Payroll jobs ensure the accurate management and processing of employee salaries, benefits, and legal obligations. From the Payroll Technician who handles day-to-day operations, to the Payroll and Benefits Specialist who manages compensation programs, and the Payroll Manager/Director who defines strategy and leads teams, these roles guarantee compliance and employee satisfaction.
Typical responsibilities by level
Payroll Technician
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Process the full payroll cycle for employees.
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Verify timesheets, bonuses, commissions, and deductions.
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Prepare tax slips (T4, Relevé 1, etc.).
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Answer employee questions regarding payroll.
Payroll and Benefits Specialist
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Administer group insurance and pension plans.
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Ensure compliance with tax laws and labor standards.
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Analyze and optimize payroll and benefits processes.
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Act as a resource person for employees and managers.
Payroll Manager
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Supervise payroll teams and coordinate large-scale operations.
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Define payroll and benefits policies and strategies.
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Collaborate with Finance and HR on labor cost management.
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Manage relationships with external providers and payroll systems.
Key skills required for a Payroll position
Payroll Technician
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Solid knowledge of tax laws and labor standards.
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Proficiency with payroll software (Nethris, ADP, Ceridian, Employeur D).
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Attention to detail, confidentiality, and accuracy.
Payroll and Benefits Specialist
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Strong knowledge of group insurance and retirement plans.
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Analytical skills to improve processes.
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Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Payroll Manager
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Leadership and team management experience.
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Strategic vision of total compensation.
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Proficiency with integrated HR and ERP systems.
Education and experience requirements
Payroll Technician: DEC or AEC in accounting or administration. PCP (Payroll Compliance Practitioner) certification is an asset. 2–5 years of experience.
Payroll and Benefits Specialist: Bachelor’s degree in administration or human resources. CPM (Certified Payroll Manager) certification valued. 5–8 years of experience.
Payroll Manager/Director: Bachelor’s or master’s degree, CPM certification strongly recommended, 8–15 years of experience in payroll and team leadership.
Differences between SMEs and large corporations
In SMEs
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Payroll Technicians are versatile, handling payroll, benefits, and compliance.
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Specialists are less common, as responsibilities are often combined.
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Payroll management may be overseen by a Controller or Finance Director.
In large corporations
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Roles are more specialized: Payroll Technicians, Benefits Specialists, Managers.
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More complex processes (multi-province, international payroll).
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Payroll Directors are involved in HR and financial strategy.
Career outlook and progression
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Payroll Technician : Payroll Specialist or Compensation Analyst.
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Payroll Specialist : Payroll Manager/Director.
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Payroll Director : VP of Total Rewards, HR Director, or Payroll Consultant.
Salary in payroll in Quebec
Payroll Technician: CAD $55,000 – $70,000.
Payroll and Benefits Specialist: CAD $70,000 – $90,000.
Payroll Manager/Director: CAD $95,000 – $130,000+.