HR Operations Specialist

Location: New York, NY / Jersey City, NJ (3 days per week onsite)

Hire Type: Contract (6 months+)

POSITION SUMMARY:
The HR Operations Specialist is responsible for managing core HR processes using Workday HCM, ensuring data accuracy, compliance, and operational efficiency across the employee lifecycle. This role acts as a Workday subject matter expert, supporting system users, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and contributing to process improvements. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, detail oriented, able to work well independently as well as part of a team, technology savvy, and excel in a fast-paced environment. The HR Operations Specialist supports two offices and will be primarily based in midtown Manhattan, with regular travel to Jersey City.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Manage and execute employee and consultant lifecycle transactions (onboarding, job changes, consultant extensions, terminations) using Workday HCM and Helix ticketing system
Maintain data integrity and ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Payroll, HRSSC, IT) to streamline HR processes and resolve system-related issues
Manage a high volume of Helix support tickets, prioritizing and escalating as needed
Process complex severance payments in coordination with HRSSC & Payroll
Manage severance reporting
Assist with maintaining consultant and intern tracking spreadsheet
Manage the process for anniversary awards inclusive of Workday processing
Other projects, assignments as needed.

EDUCATION, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor's degree in a related field
3+ years of experience in HR Operations, with hands-on Workday experience
Strong understanding of HR processes, compliance, and data privacy
Experience with Workday EIBs
Familiarity with ticketing tools
Excellent attention to detail, organizational, and communication skills
Proven track record of effectively prioritizing and multitasking
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
Self-started with excellent interpersonal skills
Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
Experience working in a fast-paced environment
Basic knowledge of federal and state employment laws and regulations
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Outlook
Familiarity with applicant tracking systems.