People Operations HR Generalist

Description We are looking for temporary coverage for People Operations Manager duties during a maternity leave. This is a part-time role with a strong emphasis on payroll and benefits administration, along with supporting general People Operations responsibilities. The role is expected to begin in July, with a gradual onboarding period. The individual in the People Operations HR Generalist role must be highly independent, self-directed, and resourceful, as day-to-day guidance will be limited. Success in this role requires a high-trust approach, a can-do, get-it-done mindset, comfort making informed decisions, and a strong ability to proactively identify solutions. Exceptional attention to detail and absolute precision with numbers and math is required for success in this role. During bi-weekly payroll weeks, hours may increase to approximately ~30 hours, with lighter weeks averaging ~10 hours, for an overall estimated average of ~20 hours per week. Compensation: $25–$30 per hour The hourly rate for this role will be based on qualifications, experience, market data, and internal equity. Actual pay may vary due to factors such as skills, education, and performance. Pay is determined transparently, using market benchmarks and ensuring internal equity. The People Operations HR Generalist role is hybrid, requiring some onsite days (preferred) and flexibility to be remote at times. Job Responsibilities Payroll Administration (Primary Focus) Independently administer bi-weekly payroll processing for multiple company groups, including Monday/Tuesday payroll runs, payroll reminder communications, and holiday schedule notifications, etc. Research, troubleshoot, and resolve payroll issues, escalating high-risk matters as needed Process manual payroll adjustments, including off-cycle corrections, new hire anomalies, termination management, timecard error reconciliation, etc. Calculate and administer monthly production bonuses and other specialized payroll items (e.g., Critical Staffing Incentives, Spot Awards) Manage wage garnishments and levies, including required manual processing each pay period and timely remittance of payments Oversee 401(k) contributions and deposits on a bi-weekly basis Review and approve all expense reports for accuracy, legitimacy, and policy compliance; proactively follow up to resolve discrepancies and escalate as necessary. When applicable, use AI tools to validate calculations, draft payroll communications, identify errors, and improve payroll documentation and workflows Benefits Administration & Billing (Primary Focus) Lead and independently manage benefits administration activities, prioritizing accuracy, timeliness, and compliance Support preparation for benefits renewal and discussions. Administer and reconcile monthly benefits billing for Accounting, including list-bill and self-bill processes. This work requires exceptional accuracy, strong Excel skills, and high attention to detail. Manage Minnesota Paid Family Leave (MNPFL) and Disability self-billing based on monthly earned wages, including reconciliation of multiple invoices and coordination with accounting Support Team Member benefits enrollments, changes, and life events, ensuring accuracy without close supervision Identify opportunities to simplify, automate, or document benefits processes using AI tools General People Operations (HR) Support Ensure accurate new hire setup in Paylocity, including compensation, PTO and benefit enrollments Deliver new hire benefits onboarding sessions Proactively flag and manage new hire start dates and termination dates to prevent payroll or benefits errors Support the administration of leave programs (FMLA, LOA, MNPFL) with strong documentation Manage salary team member unemployment claims, including agency notices, hearing requests, and responses Respond to employment verification requests accurately and efficiently Assist with administrative elements of PIPs, Team Member exits, and transitions with strong documentation, discretion and follow-through Support the company’s Team Member Anniversary Recognition platform through funding coordination and administrative support Specific Measures of Success in the People Operations HR Generalist Position Payroll is processed accurately and on time for every pay cycle, with minimal corrections or downstream impacts Benefits billing is reconciled monthly with no late payments, penalties, or unresolved discrepancies Payroll, benefits, and compliance issues are identified and resolved proactively AI tools are actively leveraged to reduce manual effort, improve accuracy, and enhance documentation New hire, termination, and leave actions are reflected correctly across systems with no preventable errors Key processes are improved, clarified, or documented during the contract period, leaving operations stronger than at start Job Competencies Payroll & Benefits Mastery – Demonstrated expertise managing payroll and benefits independently Exceptional Attention to Detail – Highly accurate in deadline-driven, compliance-oriented environments Independence & Ownership – Self-starting, resourceful, and comfortable operating with limited direction AI Fluency & Innovation – Actively uses AI to improve work quality, efficiency, and process design Problem Solving & Judgment – Assesses risk, identifies solutions, and takes initiative to resolve issues Execution Mindset – Brings a “figure it out and get it done” approach to work Requirements Education & Experience Minimum 3 years of experience in a People Operations HR Generalist or Human Resources role required Paylocity HRIS experience required Hands-on, end-to-end payroll ownership experience required Benefits administration and billing experience preferred High school diploma or equivalent required Degree or certification in Human Resources preferred Skills & Capabilities Meticulous attention to detail with a high level of organization Able to independently manage recurring processes and deadlines Strong interest in leveraging AI tools to enhance workflows, accuracy, and productivity Physical Requirements: Ability to sit for extended periods, with occasional standing or walking Perform repetitive hand and finger movements (e.g., typing, mouse use) Communicate effectively in person, by phone, and through virtual meetings Occasionally bend, reach, or stoop to access files or office equipment Lift and carry light items, generally up to 10–15 pounds Maintain focus and attention in a standard office environment PURIS is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are welcome, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. The hiring process includes successfully completing a background check, and drug screen. We E-verify all new hires. INTEGRITY | LEADERSHIP | OPENNESS | GLOBAL VISION | ADAPTABILITY | PARTNERSHIP