Payroll Specialist

Located within the traditional unceded territory of the syilx people, Westbank First Nation is a progressive and prosperous self-governing First Nation. The Okanagan Valley truly has it all, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

Westbank First Nation values diversity and we are committed to creating a healthy, strong and vibrant community through programs and services that promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. Come join our team and become part of an innovative and rewarding place to work.

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Accounting Manager, the Payroll Specialist is responsible for the preparation of Westbank First Nation Government computerized payroll, maintenance of the payroll databases, for hourly and salary employees, prepares the payroll journal entries, reconciles the payroll general ledger accounts, and prepares the payroll remittances.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Completion of Canadian Payroll Association’s Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) required
• Certified Payroll Manager (CPM) preferred
• Minimum 5 years recent experience in payroll, pension and benefits administration
• Minimum 2 years recent experience in full cycle accounting
• Proficiency and experience in a computerized payroll environment
• Previous experience with UKG software would be preferred
• Experience working with indigenous communities/people considered and asset
• Equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered

REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal Record Check and Credit Check with results acceptable to WFN
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and uses discretion on all matters relating to the affairs of the Westbank First Nation

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILTIES

• Understands the internal structure of the payroll system as it relates to payroll processing, benefits integration, time and attendance, Paid Time off (PTO) management, and compensation review
• Process in a timely and accurate manner the bi-weekly salary & hourly payrolls using UKG payroll system
• Validates, reviews and reconciles the hours from the timekeeping system (UKG – UTM) to final pay register
• Ensure that all payments, deductions, remittances and dues are accurate, submitted on time and are in accordance with the Federal and Provincial legislation
• Process payout requests, adjustments, deductions, and garnishments as necessary
• Process all new hires, terminations, and produce records of employment
• Responsible for accurate General Ledger journal vouchers and performance of month-end and year-end processes, including; calculating accruals, reconciling payroll accounts, preparing a variety of reports, and liaising with external agencies and auditors
• Monitors, evaluates and implements software updates in the UKG timekeeping system
• Preparing year-end employee tax slips and forms, and submitting government filings to meet deadlines
• Maintains employee leaves (annual leave, sick leave, family responsibility leave, etc.)
• Prepares and reconciles the Early Childhood Educators premium benefits
• Prepares and reconciles the Homemaker’s wages and benefits
• Responds to enquiries from employees regarding their pay, including those related to earnings, deductions, taxable benefits, salary administration, and leave entitlements
• Responsible for the process for manual pay cheques for one-time pre-approved requests and payroll errors and omissions in accordance with Canada Revenue Agency regulations
• Prepares quarterly remittances and reports for WorkSafe BC
• Ensures on-going documentation of Payroll systems, processes and procedures
• Reviews, recommends and implements internal controls, policies, procedures and other requirements pertinent to payroll processing and labour information-gathering procedures in consultation with relevant stakeholders
• Assists with preparation of year-end working papers and liaises with external agencies and auditors
• Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Westbank First Nation policies, standards, and procedures and as directed by the Accounting Lead, Operations

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Considerable knowledge of the methods, practices and principles used in the preparation, calculation and processing of payroll, including the associated federal rules, regulations and legislations
• Ability to understand and perform payroll calculations and to control and balance records and summaries
• Sound knowledge of payroll and accounting practices and principles
• Ability to execute and communicate payroll, pension, and benefits issues in a tactful, concise and accurate manner
• Ability to work in a fast-paced time sensitive environment
• Ability to effectively liaise with, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of internal and external stakeholders
• Advanced level of MS Office (MS Excel & MS Word) and Adobe
• Highly organized, accurate and attentive to detail
• Ability to identify and respect confidential information
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; particularly inter-personal and customer service skills

The median salary for this position is $71,405

To learn more about Westbank First Nation please visit our website at https://www.wfn.ca.

All applications must be submitted through our Employment Opportunities page. Ensure you attach your cover letter and resume. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.

This opportunity will close at midnight on Sunday, September 28, 2025

While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to qualified WFN Members & Indigenous applicants.