HR Operations Specialist

Shift5 is redefining the future of onboard operational technology (OT). As a fast-growing scale-up, we specialize in cutting-edge cybersecurity, predictive maintenance, and compliance for OT systems across defense, aerospace, and rail. We are a team of passionate, innovative professionals who thrive in a collaborative environment, driven by a shared mission to revolutionize how fleets operate. By unlocking and democratizing the vast potential of onboard OT data, we help our customers’ fleets run smarter, safer, and more efficiently. Ready to be part of the next frontier in transportation and critical infrastructure? Come join us.

Our Values:

• Mission First Mindset: We exist to protect the service members who defend our nation and secure the critical systems that keep our economy moving.
• Relentless Innovation: We are motivated by the challenge of solving the toughest problems facing transportation and defense industries. 
• Data Driven Decisions: We make decisions rooted in data. Giving our team and stakeholders a more informed perspective possible when lives and missions are on the line.

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Human Resources Operations Specialist with experience to join our team. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with Rippling and be responsible for the day-to-day administration and optimization of our HR and payroll systems. This role is critical to ensuring the smooth operation of our HR processes, including onboarding, offboarding, benefits administration, and payroll.

This role will be based at our Rosslyn, VA Headquarters. The expectation is that you are in the office 4-5 days per week. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Employee Support: Act as the first point of contact for employee inquiries related to HR policies, payroll, and benefits. Provide excellent customer service and resolve issues in a timely manner.
• Rippling Administration: Serve as the primary administrator for the Rippling platform, including managing employee data, user permissions, and system configurations.
• Onboarding & Offboarding: Manage the end-to-end onboarding and offboarding processes within Rippling, ensuring a seamless and positive experience for all employees. This includes new hire paperwork, I-9 verification, and system access.
• Payroll & Benefits Administration: Responsible for the semi-monthly payroll process by ensuring accurate data entry and system reconciliation. Lead with benefits enrollment, changes, and invoice reconciliation in coordination with Accounting.
• HRIS Management: Maintain data integrity and accuracy in Rippling and other HR systems. Generate reports and dashboards to support HR and business decisions.
• Process Improvement: Identify and implement opportunities to streamline HR operations and improve efficiency. Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for key HR processes.
• Compliance: Assist with maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations. Support internal and external audits as needed.
• Special Projects: Participate in and lead various HR projects as assigned, such as system implementations, policy rollouts, or employee engagement initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Experience in an HR Operations or similar role.

Required:

• Proven, hands-on experience with the Rippling platform for HRIS, payroll, and benefits administration.
• Strong understanding of HR principles, practices, and employment laws.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to work.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with other HRIS or payroll systems.
• Experience in a fast-paced or high-growth environment.
• PHR or SHRM-CP certification is a plus.

Compensation & Benefits: 

• Base Salary: $90,000-$125,000
• Bonus program and equity in a fast-growing startup
• Competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families
• Health Savings Account with annual employer contributions
• Employer-paid Life and Disability Insurance 
• Uncapped paid time off policy 
• Flexible work & remote work policy 
• Tax-deferred public transit benefits with Metro SmartBenefits (DC/MD/VA)  

We are committed to building an inclusive culture of belonging that embraces the diversity of our people and represents the communities in which we work and the customers we serve. We know the happiest and highest performing teams include people with diverse perspectives and ways of solving problems. We strive to attract and retain talent from all backgrounds and create workplaces where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.   

Shift5 is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, age, marital status, ancestry, projected veteran status, or any other protected group or class.