HR Generalist

HR Generalist

ExistX was founded in 2023 with the goal to combine cutting edge invention with practical implementation in the unique environments our customers demand to solve national security problems in the real world.

Our team of software and systems engineers bring experience working with cutting-edge advancements in cryptography, cyber-physical systems, MBSE, and formal methods for both government and commercial applications. We leverage a unique suite of capabilities—incubated through our sister R&D firm, Galois, and other key research partnerships—to rapidly prototype and deliver impactful solutions to the warfighter.

The solution exists. Let's build it together.

About This Role

We are currently seeking a HR Generalist with at least five (5) years of relevant industry experience developing a team-first culture, robust human resources processes, and a team that thrives on great communication.

The Human Resources Generalist is responsible for providing comprehensive HR support to a workforce that includes Department of War (DoW / DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) cleared employees. This role partners closely with leadership, security, and program teams to ensure HR policies, practices, and employee relations align with federal regulations, contract requirements, and organizational goals. The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience supporting cleared populations and demonstrates discretion, regulatory awareness, and strong interpersonal skills.

You will join a small, growing team where every person's contributions directly shape the Company's growth and impact. You'll collaborate with Human Resources, Marketing, Business Development as well as work with a group of world class engineers, researchers, and leaders. We value curiosity, accountability, and collaboration.

Responsibilities

These responsibilities are executed in close collaboration with the CEO, COO, and Engineering leadership.

Employee Relations & HR Support

• Serve as a trusted HR partner for employees and managers supporting DoW / DoD / IC programs and cleared contracts.
• Ensure consistent application of HR policies while accounting for cleared environment requirements and contract-specific obligations.
• Support sensitive employee matters with a high degree of confidentiality and professionalism.
• Advise leadership on employee relations matters, including performance management, corrective action, investigations, and conflict resolution.

Talent Lifecycle

• Lead and oversee all recruiting efforts including coordination with third-party talent acquisition partners and Security teams.
• Coordinate onboarding and offboarding processes for cleared and non-cleared employees, ensuring compliance and positive employee experience.
• Assist with promotions, job changes, compensation actions, and workforce planning initiatives.

HR Programs & Administration

• Administer and continually refine HR policies, procedures, and benefit programs.
• Maintain accurate employee records and HRIS data, ensuring compliance with internal controls and external regulations.
• Support performance review cycles, employee engagement initiatives, and training programs.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of HR processes and documentation.

Cleared Workforce Compliance

• Support HR processes for employees holding security clearances (e.g., onboarding, transfers, terminations, leave considerations).
• Partner with Security, Legal, and Program Management to ensure compliance with customer, FAR/DFARS, and contract-specific requirements.
• Maintain awareness of how security clearance status impacts employment decisions and workforce planning.
• Assist with audits, reviews, and data requests related to cleared programs.

Organizational Support

• Coach managers on best practices related to leadership, employee development, and compliance in a cleared environment
• Support organizational change initiatives, including restructuring or contract transitions
• Analyze HR metrics and trends to inform leadership decision-making

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• At least 5 years of progressive human resources experience in a generalist or business partner role
• Possess a current/or recent U.S. Government Security Clearance (Secret minimum; higher levels preferred) or the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance.
• Demonstrated experience supporting employees working on federal contracts or in a cleared environment.
• Working knowledge of U.S. employment laws and HR best practices
• Experience handling sensitive and confidential information with sound judgment
• Benefits enrollment understanding and implementation / negotiation experience
• Knowledge and implementation experience working with HRIS to support ongoing maintenance, reporting, and workflows.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to adapt tone for internal and external audiences
• Proficiency in content tools such as Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, or similar

Preferred:

• Prior experience in defense, aerospace, government contracting, or technology organizations supporting DoW / DoD / IC programs.
• Familiarity with security clearance processes and terminology (e.g., Secret, Top Secret, SCI).
• HR certification (PHR, SHRM-CP, or equivalent).
• Experience partnering closely with Security or Facility Security Officers (FSO).

General Attributes

• High attention to detail and time-management skills
• Sound judgment and discretion in sensitive situations
• Highly organized and proactive, with excellent multitasking and prioritization skills
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, growth-focused environment with evolving priorities
• Collaborative mindset with a focus on clarity, accountability, and follow-through
• Curiosity for both technology and storytelling — eager to bridge people, culture, and brands
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build trust across all levels
• Ability to balance employee advocacy with organizational and contractual requirements

Location

ExistX is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia with additional locations in Dayton, Ohio and Baltimore, Maryland. We have some remote employees distributed across the US.

Position may require eligibility to work with cleared programs (active clearance not required, but preferred). Hybrid or onsite presence may be required depending on contract or security requirements. Occasional interaction with government customers, auditors, or security personnel will be required.

While we have a high preference for co-location in either Washington, DC (and surrounding metro) or Dayton, Ohio, we will not be limited geographically for hiring this position.

Benefits

ExistX offers a highly competitive benefits program to support employees and their families, including:

• Competitive salaries
• Employer paid medical insurance plan
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions
• Employer paid dental and vision insurance plans
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
• Flexible work location with a remote friendly culture
• Paid time off (25 days per year)