HR Generalist (Contract, Part-Time)

About the role

We are looking for an experienced, hands-on HR Generalist to join our team and provide maternity leave coverage for our HR function.
This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys variety, ownership, and partnering directly with employees and managers. You will support day-to-day HR operations across payroll, employee relations, recruiting, onboarding, benefits, and compliance while helping ensure a positive and consistent employee experience.

This is a part-time, on-site position in Irvine, CA, working 3 full days per week (24 hours total). There is some flexibility in determining the 3 working days based on business and candidate needs. The position is initially temporary, with the potential to convert to a full-time opportunity based on business needs and performance.

What you'll do

HR Operations & Payroll

• Manage biweekly payroll for employees and contractors, including timesheets, reimbursements, deductions, and employee changes.
• Maintain accurate employee records and process new hires, compensation changes, leaves, and terminations in Rippling.
• Serve as a day-to-day HR resource for employees and managers.

Recruiting & Onboarding

• Support recruiting for open roles, including job postings, resume review, initial interviews, and interview coordination.
• Partner with hiring managers throughout the hiring process and coordinate new hire onboarding and orientation.

Employee Relations

• Support managers with employee relations, performance management, attendance, and other day-to-day people matters.
• Respond to employee questions and help address workplace concerns consistently and professionally.
• Escalate complex or higher-risk employee matters when appropriate.

Benefits & Compliance

• Manage day-to-day benefits administration, including enrollments, qualifying life events, terminations, and employee questions.
• Support leave administration, workers' compensation, and other HR-related matters as needed.
• Help ensure HR practices and documentation remain compliant with applicable federal, California, and local employment requirements.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in an HR Generalist, HR Manager, People Operations, or similar role.
• Hands-on experience processing payroll and supporting day-to-day HR operations.
• Working knowledge of California employment laws and HR compliance requirements.
• Experience supporting employee relations and providing guidance to managers.
• Experience with recruiting, onboarding, and benefits administration.
• Strong organization, judgment, attention to detail, and ability to handle confidential information.
• Experience with Rippling strongly preferred.