HR Operations Manager

Discovery Cube•Santa Ana, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The HR Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day execution of core HR operations, with primary responsibility for payroll, benefits administration, workers’ compensation, and leave of absence management. This role ensures accuracy, consistency, compliance with federal and California regulations, and a smooth employee experience across the full employee lifecycle. This position reports to the Senior Human Resources Manager and serves as a key partner in owning the administration and execution of HR operations. The HR Operations Manager will act as the primary point of contact for employees on payroll, benefits, and leave matters, while contributing to process improvements and supporting a well-rounded HR function across the organization.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience)
5+ years of progressive HR experience with a strong focus on HR operations
3+ years of hands-on experience with payroll processing (ADP preferred)
Strong knowledge of California labor laws, leave regulations (FMLA/CFRA/PDL), and benefits compliance
Experience managing workers’ compensation claims and leave administration
High attention to detail and strong organizational skills
Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism
Strong communication and problem-solving skills

Nice To Haves

Experience in a nonprofit or multi-site environment
Experience with 401(k) administration and audits
HR certification (PHR, SHRM-CP)
Payroll certification (CPP or FPC)

Responsibilities

Own the day-to-day execution of HR operations, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and timely completion of all processes
Serve as the primary point of contact for employee inquiries related to payroll, benefits, leaves, and HR processes
Identify process gaps and recommend improvements to enhance efficiency and consistency
Process bi-weekly payroll in ADP, ensuring accuracy and compliance with applicable laws
Process final paychecks in accordance with California wage and hour requirements
Prepare payroll reports and support internal and external audits
Partner with Finance as needed on payroll-related reporting and reconciliation
Support year-end activities, including W-2 processing and tax reporting
Administer employee benefits programs, including enrollments, changes, and terminations
Oversee COBRA administration and ensure timely and accurate processing
Audit and reconcile benefit enrollments with carriers and brokers to ensure accuracy
Track eligibility and support ACA compliance requirements
Support open enrollment execution, including system setup and employee communications
Manage workers’ compensation claims from initial report through resolution
Coordinate with employees, managers, adjusters, and medical providers
Ensure timely reporting and compliance with workers’ compensation requirements
Oversee return-to-work and modified duty assignments in alignment with medical restrictions
Maintain accurate records and monitor claim activity and trends
Administer all leaves of absence, including FMLA, CFRA, PDL, and company leaves
Track leave eligibility, usage, and required documentation
Serve as the primary HR contact for employees on leave, ensuring clear and timely communication
Coordinate with managers on leave planning and return-to-work transitions
Support the interactive process and accommodation tracking in partnership with the Senior HR Manager
Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and reporting requirements
Prepare and support audits, including payroll, benefits, and 401(k) audits
Manage 401(k) administration, including contributions, reporting, and vendor coordination
Conduct routine audits to identify discrepancies or risks and implement corrective actions
Support required reporting, including California annual pay data reporting
Act as primary liaison with ADP for payroll-related matters and with benefits brokers for benefits administration, including issue resolution and enrollment coordination
Ensure accurate data flow between ADP and external providers
Support system updates, testing, and process improvements within HRIS
Support employee wellness initiatives and HR programs
Partner with the Senior HR Manager on process improvements and operational priorities
Provide support on broader HR initiatives as needed