Description Cuhaci Peterson is seeking a highly organized and service-oriented People & Culture (HR) Operations Lead to oversee the day-to-day operations of the People & Culture function. Supporting a multi-state workforce, this role serves as the operational backbone of the department, leading employee lifecycle administration, HR systems management, payroll coordination, compliance, workforce reporting, and employee support services. The People & Culture Operations Lead drives process improvement, operational efficiency, and data integrity while ensuring a consistent, compliant, and employee-focused experience that supports Organizational growth and delivers exceptional service to employees and leaders across the firm. Essential Responsibilities People & Culture Operations • Serve as the primary administrator for People & Culture operational processes, policies, and procedures. • Develop, document, and maintain standard operating procedures to ensure consistency and compliance across the employee lifecycle. • Identify opportunities to improve efficiency through process enhancements, automation, and system optimization. • Act as a trusted resource for employees and managers regarding People & Culture programs, policies, and employment-related questions. • Support the execution of department initiatives, projects, and organizational priorities. HRIS, Data Management & Reporting • Maintain the integrity, accuracy, and security of employee data within the HRIS. • Process employee status changes, compensation updates, promotions, transfers, and organizational changes. • Generate and analyze workforce metrics including headcount, turnover, retention, absenteeism, and staffing trends. • Prepare recurring and ad hoc reports for leadership to support business decisions and • workforce planning. • Conduct regular audits to ensure data accuracy and compliance. • Create reports, dashboards, and workforce analytics to support strategic decision-making. Payroll Administration & Coordination • Partner with Finance and payroll providers to ensure timely and accurate multi-state payroll processing. • Review payroll changes, employee updates, and supporting documentation for accuracy. • Assist with payroll audits, reporting requirements, and issue resolution. • Maintain payroll-related records and ensure compliance with applicable regulations. • Support annual compensation updates, bonus administration, and employee compensation records. Employee Lifecycle Administration • Coordinate onboarding activities including background screening, employment documentation, I-9 verification, HRIS setup, and new hire orientation. • Ensure a positive and efficient onboarding experience for all new employees. • Administer employee changes including promotions, transfers, compensation adjustments, and employment status updates. • Manage offboarding processes, exit interviews, separation documentation, and final employment records. • Coordinate leave of absence administration and maintain related documentation. • Maintain personnel files and employee records throughout the employment lifecycle. Compliance & Policy Administration • Support compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws across all company locations. • Maintain employee records, required employment documentation, labor law postings, and policy acknowledgments. • Coordinate EEO-1 reporting, unemployment claims administration, and compliance-related audits. • Assist with workplace investigations, corrective actions, and documentation as needed. • Track professional licenses, certifications, continuing education requirements, and related records. • Maintain and update employee handbook content, policies, forms, and People & Culture documentation. Employee Experience & Engagement • Support employee engagement, recognition, wellness, and culture initiatives. • Coordinate employee communications and department-wide announcements. • Assist with employee events, celebrations, service awards, volunteer initiatives, and culture building activities. • Partner with department leaders to promote a positive, inclusive, and engaging workplace environment. • Serve as a responsive and approachable resource for employee support and guidance. • Support performance management, employee surveys, and other organizational development initiatives. Requirements Education & Experience • Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred. • 5+ years of progressive experience in HR operations, human resources administration, • payroll, or related functions. • Experience supporting a multi-state workforce preferred. • Professional services, architecture, engineering, consulting, or similar industry experience • preferred. • Experience administering HRIS systems and supporting workforce reporting and analytics. Knowledge & Skills • Strong knowledge of HR operations, employee lifecycle administration, payroll processes, and employment compliance. • Experience with HRIS platforms such as Paylocity, ADP, UKG, Workday, or similar systems. • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and workforce reporting. • Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail. • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and process improvement capabilities. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. • Ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines. • Ability to handle highly confidential information with professionalism and discretion. • Strong customer service orientation and commitment to delivering an exceptional employee experience. Preferred Qualifications • SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification preferred. • Experience supporting a growing, multi-office organization. • Experience developing HR processes, policies, and operational procedures.