Calgary, AB, CA
Tax Specialist, Indirect Tax
WHO WE ARE
Our Power, Your Possibilities
At TransAlta, we don’t just generate electricity-we generate opportunity. As one of Canada’s largest publicly traded power generators, we’ve been powering communities for over 100 years across Canada, the U.S., and Australia. Our diverse energy portfolio and passionate team are driving the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
We believe in the power of purpose, the strength of collaboration, and the value of continuous learning. If you’re ready to make a real impact in a dynamic industry, you bring the energy - we’ll provide the platform.
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are looking for an experienced Tax Specialist or Tax Manager to join our team in our new Tax Advisor, Indirect Tax role at TransAlta. This role is a critical part of our Corporate tax team and is primarily responsible for all aspects of indirect taxation, indirect tax policy and compliance related work for the company and its subsidiary operations, including at the federal, provincial/state, and local level for TransAlta’s North American entities.
Reporting to the Supervisor of Corporate Tax, this role requires a senior specialist who enjoys a high degree of autonomy and independence in their role, with the opportunity to take ownership of key processes. This includes contributing creatively to the modernization and automation of our GST workflows, driving improvements in efficiency and effectiveness across the function, and providing advice and guidance on all aspects of indirect tax.
This position is based out of our Downtown Calgary Head Office, with the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
- Prepare and review indirect tax filings, including GST/HST, PST and U.S. sales tax returns, ensuring returns are filed accurately by their respective deadlines
- Ensure compliance and prompt payment of all required indirect taxes
- Stay current on changes in tax legislation and inform the Director, Corporate Tax of upcoming tax and/or compliance changes that could impact the Company
- Lead tax audits by Federal and Provincial/State income tax authorities and resolve any audit related issues, including reviewing, preparing and maintaining supporting documentation for government audits
- Prepare journal entries and account reconciliations to ensure completeness, accuracy and timeliness
- Prepare and review working papers and documentation to support internal and external audits, ensuring robust support for SOx compliance and control effectiveness
- Advise on the applicability of indirect tax on internal or external agreements, transactions or reorganizations as required
- Provide indirect tax advisory services to internal business units
- Build and manage relationships with various internal business units, tax auditors, and regulatory agencies
- Work with the SAP S/4HANA implementation team to support improvements to the function
- Manage indirect tax exemption certification with external vendors and customers
- Ensure indirect tax elections are properly filed and tracked
- Perform processes as well as continuously review, improve and document processes and controls around indirect taxes
ABOUT YOU
- Equivalent experience as a Tax Manager or Senior Tax Specialist
- Business/Accounting degree or equivalent
- CPA designation and completion of the CPA Canada In-Depth GST/HST program
- Minimum 10 years of indirect tax experience
- Knowledge of IFRS and understanding of SOx compliance
- US indirect tax experience is desirable
- Proficiency with SAP, S/4HANA is an asset
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities with strong organisational skills and a results-oriented mindset.
- Skilled in analysing complex data to draw logical conclusions, while taking ownership of issues and driving collaborative problem-solving.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to foster strong working relationships.
- High level of integrity, accountability, and discretion, with the flexibility and resourcefulness to adapt in a dynamic environment.
- Experience in the energy, utilities, or infrastructure sector is preferred
THE PERKS
- Competitive salary
- Annual and long-term incentives available for select roles
- Company-matching pension plan
- Flexible health benefits for you and your family
- Generous vacation and personal days
- Learning and development programs
- Employee recognition and rewards
- Annual wellness allowance
Explore our Employee Experience Booklet on our Careers site to see how we support your growth and wellbeing www.transalta.com/careers
OUR CULTURE
At TransAlta, we’re driven by a Culture of Results, Learning, and Purpose. We prioritize psychological safety, wellbeing, inclusion, and belonging - creating a space where everyone can thrive. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation and progress, and we’re committed to building a workplace where you can be your authentic self.
Ready to Power Up With Us? Excited about this role but don’t meet every single requirement? We still encourage you to apply. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for a job unless they meet every single qualification. You might just be the candidate we are looking for.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The successful candidate may be required to complete background checks appropriate to the role and may include criminal record, education and employment verification or credit checks. ‘Safety sensitive positions’ will be required to complete pre-employment testing.
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, only those progressing will be contacted.