Human Resources Operations Manager

Harlem Grown•New York, NY

22h•$67,000 - $75,000•Onsite

About The Position

Harlem Grown is seeking an experienced, highly organized, and proactive Human Resources Operations Manager to lead day-to-day HR operations and ensure efficient, accurate, and responsive people processes. Reporting to the Chief of Staff, the manager independently oversees core HR functions including recruitment operations, onboarding, payroll, benefits administration, HR systems, employee support, and compliance processes. This hands-on role on a lean team calls for sound judgment, exceptional organization, clear communication, and consistent follow-through. The manager owns work, anticipates needs, resolves problems, manages competing demands, improves systems, and determines when to act independently or escalate issues. The Chief of Staff sets HR strategy and priorities; the manager translates them into effective processes and reliable execution. The role also collaborates with the Chief Operating Officer on legal and regulatory compliance matters. Harlem Grown is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit that inspires youth to lead healthy and ambitious lives through mentorship and hands-on education in urban farming, sustainability, and nutrition. Its 14 urban agricultural sites in Central Harlem include soil-based urban farms, hydroponic greenhouses, and a mushroom chamber. Programs provide food and farm education, free produce and nutritious meals, community resources, academic support, internships, and career readiness opportunities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
At least 5 years of progressive HR experience.
Demonstrated experience managing core HR functions, including payroll, benefits, recruitment, onboarding, HR systems, and employee support.
Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to independently manage competing priorities, maintain accuracy, and complete work.
Strong judgment, initiative, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to anticipate needs, navigate ambiguity, and recognize when to escalate issues.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Demonstrated accountability, attention to detail, and discretion handling confidential matters.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a nonprofit or similarly sized organization with a lean HR team.
Knowledge of New York State and NYC employment requirements.
Experience with HRIS/ATS platforms or PEOs.
Direct experience with OCFS, DYCD, or DOHMH clearance and compliance requirements.
Experience advising managers on HR matters.
SHRM-CP or PHR certification.

Responsibilities

Own day-to-day HR operations and provide accurate, timely, and consistent employee support.
Manage semi-monthly payroll, including timekeeping, tax setup, deductions, payroll changes, audits, and discrepancy resolution.
Oversee benefits administration, including new-hire enrollment, annual open enrollment, employee communications, and vendor coordination.
Maintain accurate employee records and HR systems, including workflows, tracking mechanisms, and quality controls.
Manage recruitment operations with hiring managers, including job postings, candidate tracking, interview coordination, offer preparation, and hiring communications.
Oversee applicant tracking systems and hiring workflows, ensuring accurate records, consistent processes, and timely candidate movement.
Own end-to-end onboarding, including background checks, employment verification, required clearances, documentation, HRIS entry, and coordination with hiring managers.
Identify and resolve hiring and onboarding challenges while supporting a positive candidate and new-hire experience.
Serve as the primary HR resource for employees on policies, benefits, procedures, and routine employment matters.
Support managers with employee communications, documentation, and performance management; coordinate review cycles and employee engagement initiatives with the Chief of Staff.
Lead the weekly staff newsletter by compiling organization-wide and department-specific updates.
Support the design, administration, and analysis of employee engagement surveys and other initiatives.
Manage recurring compliance requirements, including mandatory trainings, staff clearances, certifications, audits, and policy acknowledgments.
Identify potential compliance risks, maintain knowledge of applicable employment requirements, and partner with the Chief of Staff and COO on compliance matters and policy implementation.
Translate HR priorities into actionable plans, timelines, and deliverables, and independently manage execution.
Anticipate needs, manage competing priorities, and proactively communicate progress, challenges, and decisions requiring input or approval.
Identify operational gaps and lead improvements to HR systems, workflows, and processes.
Maintain HR reports and workforce data to support decision-making, and collaborate across departments to ensure clear expectations and follow-through.