HR Specialist

Valdes Architecture & Engineering is seeking an experienced Human Resources Specialist to support the day-to-day HR needs of our growing organization. This position will provide hands-on support across a broad range of human resources functions, including benefits administration, employee relations, onboarding, compliance, performance management, recruiting support, employee communications, and HR programs. The ideal candidate is a dependable, highly organized HR professional who demonstrates sound judgment, discretion, strong common sense, and the ability to independently manage multiple priorities. This individual will regularly handle confidential and sensitive information and must be comfortable working with employees and leadership at all levels of the organization.

Responsibilities Coordinate and administer employee benefits programs and serve as a resource for employee benefit questions

Maintain a strong working knowledge of benefit plan designs, administration requirements, and applicable regulations

Maintain confidential employee information and records with a high level of professionalism and discretion

Coordinate background checks, employment verifications, and professional references for prospective and current employees

Support compensation administration and the annual performance review process

Assist with organizational development initiatives and other HR programs

Support employee relations matters such as planning, communicating, and attending events during work hours and non-work hours as available

Coordinate and facilitate new employee orientation and onboarding activities including pre-employment drug testing and background checks, communication, and other processes

Assist with employee development and training initiatives

Assist the Talent Acquisition team with recruiting, staffing, interview, and hiring logistics if applicable

Conduct research and fact-finding related to candidates, employment information, recruiting sources, and other HR matters as needed

Prepare and review offer letters, payroll documentation, employee changes, and other HR paperwork to ensure accuracy and completeness

Provide HR support for year-end activities and other cyclical HR initiatives

Provide confidential administrative and HR support to the President, Vice Presidents, Directors, and other members of leadership as needed

Respond to employee questions and provide employee services, guidance, and support

Maintain accurate HR documentation, records, reports, and electronic files

Assist with special projects and evolving HR department priorities

Perform other duties as assigned by the HR Manager or company management

Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Communications, or a related field required.

5+ years of Human Resources experience required

Experience supporting multiple areas of Human Resources, including benefits administration, employee relations, onboarding, talent acquisition, and general HR administration

Experience with benefit administration, benefit plan designs, and applicable legal and regulatory requirements

Experience working in a professional services engineering, architecture, consulting, or similar environment is highly preferred

Experience working with ADP is a plus

SHRM-CP, PHR, or similar professional HR certification is a plus

Must be comfortable providing front desk/reception coverage at least one day per week, including greeting visitors and supporting general office needs as required

Strong computer and keyboarding skills

Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications

Strong research and fact-finding skills, including the ability to appropriately research candidate information, employment information, and recruiting sources

Exceptional attention to detail, particularly when preparing offer letters, payroll documentation, employee records, and other employment-related materials where accuracy

Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines

Ability to learn and effectively utilize HR systems, recruiting platforms, and other business technology

Must possess exceptional interpersonal and organizational skills

Must be able to work in the US without sponsorship now or in the future