Human Resources Operations Manager

The Quincy Institute seeks an experienced Human Resources (HR) Operations Manager who will build out and run the daily functions of human resources (HR) programming at the organization, in conjunction with a PEO (Trinet).

This is a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about strengthening a dynamic and impactful late stage start-up organization and who can demonstrate the strategic thinking, experience, judgment, careful attention to detail, and leadership skills required for this position.


The HR Operations Manager supports the institution's 40+ employees in all areas, including recruiting, onboarding, compliance, training and development, and employee relations. The HR Operations Manager produces robust and strategic internal team support, utilizing Trinet and other resources, to help grow, mentor, and support the staff; and leads on development and implementation of internal processes, documentation, policies, and procedures. This person will advise management on all HR matters, including internal communication strategies. This position is based in Washington, DC, and will work primarily from the office. The HR Operations Manager will report to the Director of Operations, who is based remotely, as are one-third of the organization's staff. This team player will also support and backup administration and operations, as needed.


Responsibilities

The HR Operations Manager will perform routine tasks required to administer and execute all human resource programs, including but not limited to benefits and leave; performance and talent management; productivity, recognition, and morale; occupational health and safety; disciplinary matters; and disputes and investigations. This is a dynamic role that requires a balance of operational excellence and strategic foresight. Success depends on the ability to handle difficult, sensitive personnel matters with empathy and integrity, while driving organizational initiatives that foster a culture of trust, inclusivity, and high performance.

Some specific responsibilities include:


Talent Acquisition

• Manage Lever (recruitment platform) and support hiring managers with job coordination, screenings, and interviews.
• Manage the entire hiring process by overseeing the full onboarding and offboarding processes in person and remotely, utilizing Trinet and our IT systems.

Employee Relations

• Identify training needs, maintain compliance records, and suggest improvements using data and emerging tech.
• Cultivate an inclusive culture of trust and open communication.
• Manage disciplinary meetings, terminations, and investigations.
• Oversee the performance review process and coach managers on providing effective feedback.

Compliance

• Maintain full and accurate employee records.
• Develop policies and/or procedures, and lead the alignment of HR strategies to organizational goals.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations.

HRIS/Payroll

• Analyze data from our PEO to be sure we are fully utilizing our resources.
• Support payroll and administrative duties within the Operations department.
• Lead the Benefits Open Enrollment process and Retirement Planning rollout and updates.

Skills and Attributes Required

• Proven ability to prioritize the right things and anticipate organizational needs.
• Excellent, clear verbal and written communication.
• Proven ability to work independently, be proactive, and take initiative, while also being a team player.
• A track record of responsibility and accuracy.
• High integrity, professionalism, and discretion.

Education/Experience Required

• Demonstrable successful responsibility for HR or high level administration, preferably at a for-profit or non-profit organization of comparable size.
• Bachelor's degree in business, human resources, or a closely related field preferred, plus strong relevant job experience in employee relations for a minimum of 5 years required.
• SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification is a plus.
• Experience working with Trinet, Google Work Suite, and Lever all strong pluses.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this role is $75,000 to $90,000 annually based on experience. Estimated start date is November 1, 2026. This position is based in Washington D.C. and is not a remote position.


Quincy Institute provides options for a benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision, 401k, Roth IRA, vacation, paid sick leave, life insurance, HSA, FSA, STD, LTD and other supplemental benefits.


To apply, candidates must submit:

A cover letter, CV/resume with relevant experience, along with three professional references (at least two who were your direct managers) validating strong communication, work ethic, and attention to detail. Please include all in your application to be considered for this position.


Candidates should submit their application by close of business on October 9, 2026. We will reach out to the candidates that we feel are the best match for our needs via email.

Candidates will work from the DC office and must be able to work East Coast based hours, 9:00am-5:30pm. Only candidates based in the United States will be considered.


About the Quincy Institute

The organization is a think tank and communications project that works to move the United States away from constant war and domination toward greater reliance on diplomacy and cooperation - to benefit the people of the United States and the world.

The Quincy Institute is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation or any other legally protected status.