Human Resources Operations Manager (Benefits & Compliance)

In this role, you’ll report to the VP of People and manage all aspects of HR Operations. You’ll be responsible for managing the HRIS, onboarding and offboarding, training, compliance, payroll, and benefits. You will identify opportunities to become more efficient and effective in how we operate as a team to support growth at scale. This role requires a high attention to detail, the ability to create and follow frameworks autonomously, and an eagerness to make an impact at a high-growth startup. Responsibilities Own end-to-end payroll, benefits, and HR administration across North America and international employees via PEO partners, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely execution Manage the full employee lifecycle, including onboarding, offboarding, compensation changes, and employee status updates across all systems and workflows Serve as the primary point of contact for employees on compensation, benefits, perks, policies, compliance, and general HR inquiries Lead benefits strategy and administration in partnership with the VP of People, including plan design, vendor management, and annual renewals across the U.S. and international markets Ensure compliance with all applicable employment laws and regulations (with deep focus on California and New York), including required trainings, reporting (EEO-1, CA/NV wage reporting), and policy adherence Own compliance-related processes such as audits, due diligence requests, unemployment claims, employment verifications, and background checks Partner with legal counsel to draft, review, and maintain company policies and employment agreements Oversee and execute all termination processes (including restructures/RIFs), including timelines, documentation, manager coaching, payroll, and severance Manage leave of absence processes, including policy guidance, state-specific requirements, and payroll coordination Capture, analyze, and report on HR data to support compliance, audits, and strategic decision-making Identify process gaps and drive improvements across HR systems, workflows, and policies to support scalability Partner cross-functionally with Finance, IT, and other teams to implement efficient, scalable people operations processes Manage HR and office-related vendors, including PEOs, benefits providers, and office services Support office operations in partnership with the Office Manager/EA, including vendor coordination, access control (key cards), and building management communication Oversee employee experience initiatives such as events, gifting, and perks (e.g., gratis distribution), in collaboration with internal stakeholders Build strong relationships across the organization and provide guidance and coaching to managers and employees on policies and best practices Requirements 5+ years of experience in People Operations across the full employee lifecycle (onboarding, offboarding, compliance, payroll, benefits, etc.) Proven experience managing a PEO and owning payroll and benefits administration ( required ) Experience supporting both exempt and non-exempt populations, with a strong understanding of associated legal implications Deep knowledge of U.S. labor laws, particularly in California and New York Demonstrated ability to build and scale systems, processes, and frameworks in a growing organization Strong analytical and data-driven mindset, with the ability to identify root causes and implement effective solutions Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills Strong problem-solving abilities and sound judgment in decision-making Ability to prioritize and adapt in a fast-paced, evolving environment Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) with a proactive, service-oriented approach MERIT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We believe in creating and maintaining a workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their full selves to work. #J-18808-Ljbffr MERIT