California HR Leader for Law Firm Compliance

Position Summary The Human Resources professional in this role will support employment law compliance, employee relations, benefits administration, performance management, and firm-wide HR initiatives. This position requires strong knowledge of California employment law and experience supporting California-based offices and employees. Essential Responsibilities Interpret and apply federal and state employment laws, with advanced working knowledge of California employment regulations. Partner with attorneys, paralegals, and administrative staff to address performance concerns and identify training needs. Administer employee benefits programs, including FMLA, medical leave, parental leave, and short-term disability; update payroll records and communicate policy updates to staff. Facilitate and support the professional staff performance management process. Prepare and distribute new hire, departure, and employee change notifications. Serve as a trusted advisor to managers, providing coaching, guidance, and ensuring compliance with established policies and procedures. Administer disciplinary processes when necessary. Collaborate with the HR team on firmwide initiatives including compensation, diversity and inclusion, governance, policy development, change management, talent development, employee engagement, and HRIS-related projects. Work closely with the Benefits team to support the administration of benefit programs. Conduct exit interviews and follow-up interviews for new administrative hires, as assigned. Partner with office managers across multiple locations to ensure consistent implementation of firmwide policies and procedures. Oversee the accurate maintenance of employment records and personnel files in coordination with HR support staff. Collaborate with Payroll on timekeeping administration, timecard review, and related employee inquiries. Assist in the development and implementation of attorney and staff policies. Develop initiatives to enhance employee retention and engagement. Create and maintain job descriptions for professional staff positions. Respond to employee and attorney concerns using a structured and consistent approach. Support the creation, implementation, and enforcement of policies and procedures. Demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, creativity, and a commitment to continuous improvement and client service. Maintain strong organizational skills, prioritize competing demands, and meet tight deadlines with attention to detail. Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience). Professional certification such as PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP strongly preferred. Minimum of five (5) years of progressive HR experience, preferably within a law firm or professional services environment. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Experience working with an HRIS platform (Dayforce experience preferred). Comprehensive knowledge of HR functions including compensation, performance management, recruitment, and employee relations, with the ability to ensure regulatory compliance. Ability to interact confidently and effectively with leadership and staff at all levels. Additional Information May be required to provide additional support as directed by management. Occasional travel to other office locations and external events may be required. Job responsibilities may be modified as business needs evolve. #J-18808-Ljbffr