Human Resources (HR) Generalist

About the role

We are looking for an HR Generalist to join an accountancy organization in San Marcos, California on a contract basis with the potential for a permanent position. This role supports core human resources operations across payroll, onboarding, employee records, benefits administration, and compliance while helping create a consistent and well-organized employee experience. The ideal candidate brings a practical understanding of HR administration, strong attention to detail, and the ability to handle sensitive information with professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Administer payroll activities accurately and on schedule, ensuring employee pay data is processed and maintained correctly within the organization's systems.
• Guide the onboarding process for new employees by preparing required documentation, coordinating pre-employment steps, and supporting orientation activities.
• Maintain personnel records, HR files, and related documentation with a high level of accuracy, organization, and confidentiality.
• Review and update HR policies, procedural documents, and employee handbook content to keep information current and aligned with business needs.
• Support compliance efforts by applying federal, state, and California employment regulations to daily HR practices and recordkeeping.
• Oversee benefits administration, timekeeping review, and leave tracking to help employees receive timely support and accurate information.
• Assist with recruiting operations by scheduling interviews, coordinating candidate logistics, and facilitating onboarding documentation.
• Partner with leadership on employee relations matters, performance documentation, and separation processes while ensuring proper records are maintained.
• Coordinate background screenings, employment verification requests, and completion of onboarding paperwork for incoming employees.
• Contribute to HR process improvements and support the integration of employees from newly acquired businesses into HR and payroll workflows.

Qualifications

• Experience in human resources administration with responsibility for employee records, onboarding, and day-to-day HR support.
• Working knowledge of payroll processing, benefits coordination, timekeeping, and leave administration.
• Familiarity with employee relations practices and HR documentation standards, including performance and separation records.
• Understanding of federal and California employment law and the ability to apply compliance requirements in HR operations.
• Proficiency with HRIS platforms and maintaining accurate data within human resources systems.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage confidential information carefully and accurately.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to coordinate with employees, candidates, and internal stakeholders with strong attention to detail.