Sr HR Operations Specialist - Hybrid

Sr HR Operations SpecialistPosition Overview:Success and excellence at Benchmark mean not only executing but executing at a high level consistently. The Sr HR Operations Specialist plays a pivotal part in ensuring our execution of HR operations is at the highest level with the utmost customer service. This role ensures efficient, compliant, and scalable HR operations in a dynamic, multi-state environment. The Sr HR Operations Specialist is responsible for owning and performing HR-related duties in the following areas: benefits, employee relations, and performance management, with backup support on payroll tax administration and payroll processing.Ideal candidates for this position have (1) a strong operational mindset with advanced critical thinking skills; (2) proven relationship-management skills; and (3) the ability to independently manage complex, high-volume workflows in a fast-paced environment.Essential Functions of the Role:Maintain, interpret, and continuously improve HR SOP's to ensure processes remain efficient, compliant, and scalable.Administer company benefits including health programs, life event changes, leaves of absence, and accommodation requests.Reconcile monthly benefit vendor invoices and process self-bill payments.Respond to employee relations issues, conduct investigations, and partner with management on the best next steps.Provide backup support on multi-state payroll tax account maintenance, including new state registrations and tax rate updates.Support payroll administration through the processing of semi-monthly payroll.Communicate and administer human resource policies and procedures along with multi-state employment laws.Coordinate Company unemployment responses.Process new hires, terminations, and employee changes within the HRIS where support is required.Remain current on evolving regulations and legal requirements to minimize legal risk and ensure compliance.Other duties as assigned.Classification: Full Time, ExemptEssential Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:Strong operational and process-oriented mindset with the ability to own outcomesProven relationship-management skillsEssential Knowledge/Skills/Abilities Cont'd:Ability to take ownership of complex processes and drive resolution independentlyAdvanced critical thinking skillsAbility to solve problems and make sound decisions with incomplete informationEffective written and verbal communication skillsAbility to work across organizational boundariesExtensive organization skillsAbility to navigate ambiguity and adapt to shifting prioritiesProven ability to prioritize and multi-taskWorking knowledge of HR best practicesWorking knowledge of payroll and benefits reconciliation processesExperience Requirements:Minimum of five (5) years of multi-state HR experience required.Minimum of three (3) years of company benefit administration experience required.Experience with ADP Workforce Now preferred.Mortgage experience preferred.Experience with payroll processing or multi-state payroll tax administration preferred.Education / Licensing Requirements:Bachelor's degree in human resources required; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.PHR or SHRM-CP preferred.Working Conditions:Fast-paced environment.Requires normal vision (corrected) both close and distant.Requires normal hearing levels (corrected).Requires working at a desk to use a phone and computer for extended periods of time.Requires sitting, bending.Works effectively with frequent interruptions.Lifting requirements of 10 lbs. occasionally.Minimal travel <5%.