Human Resources Business Partner

Formentera Operations LLC is the operator for Formentera Partners, an energy-focused, private equity strategy based in Austin, Texas. We responsibly acquire and optimize producing oil and gas assets in onshore United States basins, prioritizing integrity, collaboration, and a positive workplace culture.

About the role

We are looking for a proactive, people-focused HR Generalist to serve as a key point of contact for employees across four core areas: benefits administration, learning and development programs, employee relations, and payroll support. The ideal candidate is organized, empathetic, detail-oriented, and passionate about creating a positive employee experience.

As a key first initiative, this role will play an active part in the organization's transition to a new Human Resources Information System (HRIS). The selected candidate will be expected to hit the ground running in supporting this effort while building relationships and establishing themselves across all core HR functions.

Responsibilities

HRIS Implementation (Initial Priority)

• Partner with HR leadership, IT, and vendors to support the implementation and rollout of the new HRIS platform
• Assist in data migration, system configuration, and testing to ensure accuracy and functionality
• Help develop and deliver end-user training to ensure a smooth adoption across the organization
• Serve as a resource for employees and managers during the transition period, troubleshooting issues and answering questions
• Contribute to the documentation of new processes and workflows within the system

Benefits Administration

• Administer and manage employee benefits programs, including health, voluntary, and retirement plans
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee benefits inquiries and resolve issues with benefits providers
• Coordinate open enrollment processes, ensuring employees have the information and support needed to make informed decisions
• Monitor benefits utilization and make recommendations to leadership for program improvements and other employee perks

Learning & Development

• Design, coordinate, and deliver training programs that support employee growth and organizational goals
• Partner with managers to identify skills gaps and develop targeted learning solutions
• Manage the onboarding experience to ensure new hires are set up for success
• Maintain and evaluate the effectiveness of L&D initiatives using data and employee feedback

Employee Relations

• Act as a trusted resource for employees navigating workplace concerns, conflicts, or policy questions
• Conduct fair and thorough investigations into employee complaints or misconduct
• Advise managers on performance management, disciplinary actions, and terminations in line with company policy and employment law
• Promote a positive, inclusive workplace culture through proactive engagement and communication

Payroll Support

• Serve as a backup to the primary payroll administrator, processing payroll accurately and on time when needed
• Assist with payroll data entry, timesheet audits, and reconciliation as required
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations
• Maintain confidentiality and accuracy of all payroll records

Key Competencies

• Discretion and confidentiality: Handles sensitive employee and payroll information with the utmost professionalism and integrity
• Attention to detail: Maintains accuracy and thoroughness when managing benefits data, payroll records, and employee information
• Communication: Clearly conveys information to employees at all levels, both verbally and in writing
• Employee advocacy: Balances the needs of the organization while genuinely supporting employee wellbeing and experience
• Organizational skills: Manages multiple priorities and deadlines across benefits, training, payroll, and employee relations simultaneously

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field
• 4+ years of HR experience, with exposure to system analytics, benefits, training, employee relations, and payroll
• Strong knowledge of employment laws, HR best practices, and payroll regulations
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion and professionalism
• High attention to detail, particularly when working with payroll and benefits data
• Proficiency with HRIS platforms (e.g., Workday, ADP, Rippling or similar)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing or facilitating employee training programs
• Active participation in HRIS deployment or system migration projects
• SHRM-CP or PHR certification
• Prior experience serving as a payroll backup or administrator
• Background in the oil & gas or energy industry

Physical Requirements

This position is primarily sedentary, with regular requirements to communicate verbally and listen. The employee will frequently need to stand, walk, handle objects with their hands, and reach with their arms. Close visual acuity is required to view a computer screen, read, transcribe, and analyze data. Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds may be necessary. Sufficient manual dexterity is needed to operate a computer keyboard and related equipment.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary
• Annual bonus eligibility
• 100% employer-covered health insurance premiums
• 401K with 4% employer match