People Operations Specialist

AP Professionals is partnered with an amazing organization in search of a People Operations Specialist. The People Operations Specialist is a key member of the People and Culture team, reporting to the Vice President of People and Culture, and is responsible for driving initiatives and ensuring the effective execution of core HR functions. This role requires strong planning, decision-making, and interpersonal skills, with a focus on service and staying current on HR practices. Key areas of responsibility include HRIS management, benefits administration, total rewards, training coordination, compliance, and employee relations, while also serving as a team lead and mentor to the HR Generalist.

Leadership & Team Support

• Act as team lead for the People and Culture department and provide mentorship to the HR Generalist.
• Partner with the VP of People and Culture on employee relations by advising supervisors and staff; lead or support investigations, conflict resolution, and mediation as needed.
• Deliver ongoing performance management support to managers, including onboarding, coaching, and career development.

HR Project & Process Management

• Lead and oversee key HR projects, ensuring timely completion and alignment with organizational objectives.
• Manage the full-cycle recruitment process while actively advancing Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) initiatives to attract and retain a diverse workforce.
• Direct the design and administration of the annual performance review process.
• Develop and manage the annual training calendar; facilitate sessions on management, customer service, conflict resolution, and other professional development topics.
• Coordinate the annual benefits open enrollment process, including employee communications, vendor collaboration, and support.

HRIS, Data Management & Analytics

• Oversee daily HRIS operations to maintain accurate employee records, efficient workflows, and data integrity.
• Produce reports and conduct regular audits of HR systems to ensure compliance and accuracy.
• Maintain consistent audits of HR documentation and respond to audit requests related to benefits, insurance, and compliance.
• Leverage data analytics to monitor trends, evaluate program impact, support workforce planning, and inform strategy.

Benefits, Wellness & Total Rewards

• Administer benefits, compensation, and total rewards programs, including leave management and ADA-related processes.
• Manage retirement plan administration, including payroll transmissions, eligibility tracking, and contribution reconciliation.
• Collaborate with the HR Generalist to implement wellness initiatives that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Policy, Compliance & Recordkeeping

• Ensure compliance with employment laws, regulations, and organizational policies.
• Assist with developing, reviewing, and updating HR policies and procedures to reflect current laws and organizational values.
• Handle employee record requests and manage confidential or complex inquiries with discretion.
• Maintain compliance with document retention guidelines and required postings.

Cross-Functional Support

• Provide backup coverage to the HR Generalist and assist with daily HR operations as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities

• Deliver custom reporting and data requests from the HRIS as needed.
• Participate in committees, project teams, and cross-functional initiatives when requested.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; an equivalent mix of education and experience may be considered.

• At least 5 years of progressive HR experience with expertise in people operations, benefits administration, HRIS management, and employee relations.
• Ability to analyze HR data to identify trends, support strategic decisions, and proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Office Suite.
• Hands-on experience overseeing benefits programs, open enrollment, wellness initiatives, and ADA accommodations.
• Experience creating and facilitating training programs for employees and leaders.

• Solid understanding of federal, state, and local employment regulations (e.g., FMLA, ADA, FLSA, EEO) and compliance requirements.
• Skilled in managing and enhancing HRIS systems while ensuring accuracy and data integrity.
• Strong project management capabilities with a record of leading HR initiatives to successful and timely completion.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with a sense of urgency and strong organizational skills.
• Excellent communication, coaching, and relationship-building skills across all levels of an organization.
• Demonstrated professionalism with the highest level of confidentiality and discretion.
• Commitment to fostering Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) in workplace practices.