Dayforce HCM (HR/Payroll) System Consultant

Accountabilities: Lead end-to-end implementations: Manage the Dayforce Payroll workstream throughout the implementation lifecycle, including discovery, requirements gathering, gap analysis, solution design, configuration, testing, cutover, go-live, and post-implementation support. Translate business requirements into solutions: Document and validate client needs, map requirements to Dayforce functionality, recommend best practices, and challenge processes when improvements can deliver better outcomes. Configure payroll and HR functionality: Set up and validate pay groups, payroll calendars, earnings, deductions, tax configurations, garnishments, general ledger mapping, payroll reports, organizational structures, positions, and employee data. Manage data conversion and integrations: Develop data mappings, validate payroll data migration, and ensure accurate transfers of year-to-date balances, tax and deduction history, and banking information. Prepare functional specifications and collaborate with integration specialists on general ledger, benefits, banking, and third-party interfaces. Lead testing and reconciliation: Develop test scenarios and coordinate unit, system, user acceptance, and parallel testing. Investigate discrepancies, perform root-cause analysis, reconcile payroll results, and oversee issues through resolution. Coordinate cutover and go-live readiness: Plan final data loads, support initial payroll processing, and manage implementation readiness, paying particular attention to quarter-end and year-end requirements. Facilitate client collaboration: Lead workshops and working sessions, communicate recommendations, and produce clear design documentation, configuration workbooks, and meeting notes. Provide ongoing support: Deliver post-go-live assistance and knowledge transfer to help clients maintain their systems confidently and independently. Manage project performance: Oversee multiple client engagements simultaneously, maintain accurate timesheets, forecast project hours, monitor performance indicators, and communicate risks or issues promptly to project managers and practice leaders. Contribute to team development: Share implementation best practices, document reusable solutions, mentor colleagues, and stay up to date with Dayforce product releases and evolving capabilities. Requirements Professional experience: At least 3 years of hands-on Dayforce implementation experience, including direct configuration of Dayforce Payroll and delivery of full implementations from discovery through go-live and post-go-live support. Payroll expertise: Strong understanding of U.S. payroll practices and compliance, including multi-state taxation, earnings and deductions, garnishments, general ledger mapping, payroll reconciliation, and quarter-end and year-end processing. Implementation and testing skills: Proven experience gathering requirements, designing solutions, writing test scenarios, managing testing cycles, conducting parallel payroll testing, and troubleshooting discrepancies. Technical capabilities: Practical knowledge of Dayforce Payroll configuration and the HR data structures that support payroll. The ability to navigate integrations, data conversions, and payroll reporting is essential. Education: A bachelor's degree in Business, Accounting, Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience. Client-facing communication: Excellent written and verbal English communication skills, with the confidence to facilitate workshops, present technical information clearly, build client trust, and respond constructively to feedback. Organization and accountability: Strong time-management skills and the ability to balance multiple client engagements, maintain accurate documentation and timesheets, meet utilization targets, and deliver high-quality work with minimal defects. Problem-solving and collaboration: A proactive, analytical approach to identifying root causes, resolving issues, managing risks, and collaborating effectively with clients, project managers, and technical specialists. Preferred qualifications: Experience with Dayforce Activate, previous employment with a Dayforce implementation partner or Dayforce itself, or Dayforce Payroll certification. Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) credentials are also advantageous. Additional technical knowledge: Familiarity with other Dayforce modules, including Workforce Management, Time and Attendance, Scheduling, Benefits, Recruiting, or Onboarding. Knowledge of integration tools, data exchange methods, the Dayforce Extensibility Framework, SQL, or XML is a plus. Additional industry experience: Exposure to Canadian or multi-country payroll, other HCM platforms such as UKG, Workday, or ADP, or a background in payroll processing, accounting, or HR operations is beneficial. Professional mindset: A willingness to learn, take ownership, share knowledge, and pursue ongoing professional development. Candidates who meet the core requirements are encouraged to apply even if they do not possess every preferred qualification. Benefits Competitive compensation: Base salary ranging from CAD $80,000 to $100,000 per year , plus incentive pay. Retirement savings: Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (GRSP) with employer matching contributions. Health coverage: Medical benefits through Medavie Blue Cross, dental and vision coverage, and extended healthcare benefits. Financial protection: Life insurance coverage for you and your family, along with travel insurance. Convenient healthcare: Access to an online doctor service. Work flexibility: Remote-first working environment, allowing you to work from anywhere in Canada. Predictable schedule: Monday to Friday, aligned with U.S. Eastern Time business hours. Time off: Open vacation policy and paid volunteer days. Learning and development: Ongoing training, professional development opportunities, and support for expanding your Dayforce and HCM expertise. Collaborative culture: Work alongside experienced consultants in a supportive, knowledge-sharing environment. Varied client projects: Exposure to diverse organizations, payroll requirements, and implementation challenges. Travel: Travel is required for this position, depending on client and project needs. Inclusive workplace: Join a team committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and equal employment opportunities.