HR/Payroll Generalist - Compliance and Payroll

Human Resources Generalist

The Human Resources Generalist serves as a strategic partner and trusted resource, supporting the full spectrum of Human Resources functions throughout the employee lifecycle. This position collaborates with organizational leaders and Human Resources to ensure compliance with employment laws, promote employee engagement, strengthen organizational effectiveness, and deliver exceptional customer service. The Human Resources Generalist performs complex, confidential, and compliance-driven responsibilities while supporting HR operations, employee relations, talent acquisition, learning and development, and workforce initiatives. This position reports directly to the Human Resources Manager.

Operations & Administration

Maintain the integrity, confidentiality, and security of all personnel, medical, and legal records in accordance with organizational policies and applicable laws.

Administer employee personnel files and ensure compliance with document retention standards and audit requirements.

Process and maintain employee transactions, including new hires, promotions, transfers, status changes, and separations.

Review and audit Human Resources documentation to ensure accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance.

Maintain accurate employee records within the Human Resources Information System (HRIS) and generate reports to support operational and business needs.

Coordinate employment verifications, personnel documentation, and other administrative Human Resources functions.

Support payroll administration by reviewing pay-related transactions, coordinating final pay requirements, and assisting with payroll compliance activities.

Maintain departmental operations through inventory management, supply procurement, and administrative support functions.

Provide front office coverage and serve as a professional representative of the Human Resources Department when needed.

Employee Relations & Compliance

Serve as a resource to employees and leaders by providing guidance regarding Human Resources policies, procedures, employment practices, and organizational expectations.

Conduct or assist with workplace investigations, employee relations matters, corrective action processes, conflict resolution, and grievance management under the direction of Human Resources leadership.

Partner with management to provide consistent guidance regarding performance management, disciplinary actions, policy interpretation, and employment-related decisions.

Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, including but not limited to FMLA, CFRA, ADA, FEHA, Workers' Compensation, Wage and Hour requirements, EEO/AA regulations, and recordkeeping standards.

Manage unemployment claims, wage garnishments, regulatory reporting, and other compliance-related activities.

Assist with internal and external audits, legal documentation, and compliance initiatives while identifying opportunities to strengthen organizational practices.

Prepare and process employment documentation while ensuring compliance with organizational hiring standards.

Assist with new hire onboarding experiences and manage employee identification badges and related onboarding materials.

Coordinate employee engagement initiatives, recognition programs, and organizational events.

Prepare and submit required regulatory reports while ensuring data accuracy and compliance.

Participate in departmental projects and strategic Human Resources initiatives.

Perform other duties and special projects as assigned in support of departmental and organizational objectives.

A college degree or 4+ years of diverse human resources experience and/or any combination of education and experience providing the required skills and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying.

Working knowledge of employment law and regulations and wage and hour and their application in the day-to-day HR working environment

Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws regulating Human Resources

Professional public/employee relations skills, problem-solving, analysis, and decision-making ability

Previous experience working in all areas related to human resources in a corporate setting

Experience working for a company with multiple sites and an employee size of 500+

Strong working knowledge and experience with an HRIS and payroll software.

Ability to multitask and be flexible.

Software(s) & System(s)

Experience with HRIS system administration, preferably Ceridian/Dayforce or similar systems

Experience with Payroll systems, preferably Ceridian/Dayforce or similar systems

Experience with Microsoft Office Suite

PHR/SHRM Human Resources Certification

Knowledge of Ceridan, Dayforce HRIS system

Ensure personnel and legal files are compliant with document retention policies and HR standards. Compliance - Responds to inquiries regarding policies and procedures, including the HR Business Pillar functionalities. (EDD, Worker’s Comp, employee relations, etc.) Ensure personnel files are compliant with document retention policies and HR standards. Gathering and coordinating all legal files. Safety/ De-escalation - Safety of the HR area and the evacuation process. Training & Talent Development - Trains, coaches, and mentors interdepartmental and external departments on processes, policies, and procedures. Develops training standard operating procedures to improve effectiveness. Ensures alignment between HR/ Learning and Development Compliance and all departments

Interpersonal Skills - Must be able to work courteously and professionally with all employees and customers/visitors. The first point of contact for all employee relations concerns inquiries and guidance. Must be able to work courteously and professionally with all employees and customers/visitors. Collaborates with all new employees/ students and maintains photo files for name and replacement badges for identification purposes. Customer Service/ Team Collaboration - Maintain professional, courteous communication and teamwork. Develops training programs to improve team effectiveness. Ensures alignment between corporate goals and Human Resources Business Operations execution. Communicates with other departments regarding events, policies, collaborations, and grievances.

Performance Metrics & Accountability - Utilize KPIs for compliance and process efficiency. Uses data to drive decision-making and hold teams accountable. Must possess a valid California motor vehicle operating license and must have reliable transportation or be willing to use their personal vehicle in the course of employment.

Must possess a valid California motor vehicle operating license and must have reliable transportation or be willing to use their personal vehicle in the course of employment.