Human Resources Associate

This is a hybrid position reporting two days a week to our Norwalk, CT office.The HR Associate reports to the Senior HRBP & Benefits Manager and will be immersed in and responsible for all HR procedures and administrative needs throughout the People and Culture department. This position provides leverage to the HR team with the goal of supporting employees during every phase of their employment life cycle, including recruitment, onboarding, termination, etc. and ensuring a positive work experience and environment. This role is ideal for someone who is looking to explore the many different facets of Human Resources.This position has an active role in ensuring all HR functions are complying with local, state, and federal regulations. We are looking for an individual who is driven and has a strong inclination for getting things done while providing white glove service. Strong attention to detail is critical for success in this role. You’ll be part of a great team who thrives on partnering with our business leaders, supervisors, and employees.Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:HR Systems, Operations & AdministrationAssist the department in carrying out a variety of HR programs and procedures for all employees.Provide hands-on administrative support for the People & Culture function across systems and processes.Enter, manage, and audit sensitive employee information.Initiate HRIS changes for personnel events such as job or organizational changes and salary actions.Ensure HRIS data accuracy through self-audits and reports.Assist TA team in management and maintenance of Recruitment 3rd party vendors.Coordinate meetings, events, and activities with HR Department staff.Maintain internal trackers and provide backup to the HR team.Perform other related duties as assigned.Employee Lifecycle: Onboarding, Changes & OffboardingSupport new hires through pre-boarding and onboarding, ensuring information is accurate and the company complies with employment laws.Manage the offboarding process and ensure departing employees receive all necessary and required employment-departure information.Develop offer letters and acknowledgment forms for new hires, promotions, and transfers.Assist with employment verification and eligibility documentation, including I-9s, in a timely manner.Assist with recruitment efforts as needed.Benefits & Payroll CoordinationSupport benefits data administration, including activations and terminations in various third-party systems.Communicate with the payroll department about new hires, departing employees, deduction changes, and other information needed to ensure payroll accuracy.Assist the Benefits Manager as needed with audits, third-party systems and enrollmentsEmployee Support & ComplianceAnswer fundamental employee questions.Handle confidential employee information with professionalism, discretion, ethics, and integrity.Help ensure HR activities comply with legislative updates, applicable laws, regulations, and agency compliance guidelines and standards.Utilize AI tools to improve workflow efficiency, support research, streamline administrative tasks, and enhance day-to-day productivity.Collaboration, Ownership & Organizational SupportWork respectfully and effectively both independently and as part of a team to achieve quality results.Demonstrate ownership and self-motivation, ensuring goals are met in a timely manner.Manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment, with strong organization, time management, and deadline management.Develop a thorough understanding of the agency's hierarchy, jobs, qualifications, compensation practices, and related administrative practices.