HR Generalist

Senior HR Operations & Compliance Specialist The Senior HR Operations and Compliance Specialist is responsible for ensuring the integrity, compliance, and operational effectiveness of Human Resources programs, policies, and processes at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL). The role serves as the primary owner of HR compliance activities, reporting, policy management, audit readiness, contract administration, and HR operational controls, working closely with Princeton University, the Department of Energy (DOE), and other stakeholders to monitor regulatory requirements and maintain adherence to applicable federal, state, local, contractual, and organizational requirements. Responsibilities Lead HR reporting, coordinate internal and external audits, and maintain critical HR governance documentation and communication channels. Continuously evaluate HR processes to identify opportunities for improvement, strengthen controls, mitigate risk, and enhance operational efficiency. Oversee the administration of employee leave programs, ensuring compliance with laws and policies while providing effective support to employees and managers. Serve as a trusted steward of confidential employee, organizational, and regulatory data, maintaining the highest standards of discretion, integrity, and professional judgment. Own the development, review, implementation, and management of HR policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and contractual obligations. Establish and maintain a policy review framework, including schedules, version control, and change management processes. Monitor regulatory and contractual developments and assess impacts on HR programs, policies, and practices. Develop communication and training plans to ensure employee and management understanding of policy updates and compliance obligations. Manage all HR compliance reporting requirements, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timely submission of required reports, including AppendixA and other contractual deliverables. Lead HR audit readiness efforts by establishing and maintaining documentation, records, controls, and processes necessary to support internal and external audits. Coordinate HR participation in audits, including payroll, benefits, compliance, compensation, and governmental reviews. Conduct periodic internal compliance reviews and process audits to assess adherence to policies, procedures, contractual requirements, and regulatory standards. Develop and implement corrective action plans to address audit findings and strengthen compliance controls. Track and report compliance metrics, audit outcomes, and risk mitigation activities to HR leadership. Manage and oversee HR operational communication channels, including the HR shared mailbox, ensuring timely and accurate responses and escalation of complex matters. Maintain HR intranet content to ensure information remains accurate, accessible, and compliant. Ensure all required labor law postings and notices are current, compliant, and properly displayed. Lead process improvement initiatives, including workflow redesign, documentation, automation, and measurement of outcomes to enhance compliance, efficiency, and employee experience. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in business, Human Resources, or another business‑related field. Minimum of 6years of demonstrated hands‑on HR compliance and operations experience. Strong written and verbal communication skills with a proven track record of collaboration across all levels of the organization. Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities. Demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement, operational excellence, and proactive identification of opportunities to strengthen compliance, efficiency, and employee experience. Strong knowledge of HR compliance, governance, risk management, internal controls, audit readiness, and corrective action planning. Experience preparing contractual compliance reports and managing compliance obligations associated with government‑funded organizations. Extensive knowledge of leave requirements and other legal protections afforded by applicable laws. Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or Google Suite tools. Preferred experience working in a DOE laboratory, federal contractor, or similarly regulated environment. Working Conditions Typical indoor office setting; on‑site presence is essential. Occasional remote work one day per week possible after trust has been established and onboarding is completed. Not supportive of visa or relocation assistance. Eligible for overtime: No; standard weekly hours: 40.00. Benefits The University offers a comprehensive benefits program to eligible employees and a salary range of $93,400 to $149,200 for this full‑time position. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr