HR Operations Generalist

TL;DR

HR Operations Generalist (HR Operations): Managing payroll, benefits, and HRIS administration for a leading animation studio with an accent on compliance and employee experience. Focus on streamlining people operations, ensuring adherence to California employment laws, and maintaining the UKG Pro system.

Location: Hybrid (Santa Monica, CA)

Salary: $80,000–$95,000 per year

Company

One of the entertainment industry’s leading producers of event-animated films, known for global franchises including Despicable Me and The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

What you will do

• Manage biweekly payroll processing, including auditing data, verifying timesheets, and resolving discrepancies.
• Administer and maintain the UKG Pro HRIS, managing workflows, automated file feeds, and system enhancements.
• Oversee employee benefits programs, including new hire enrollments, open enrollment, and coordinate education sessions.
• Manage employee leaves of absence (CFRA, FMLA, PDL, PFL, ADA) ensuring full compliance with federal and California regulations.
• Direct onboarding and offboarding processes, including I-9 compliance, final pay coordination, and exit interviews.
• Maintain the Employee Handbook and monitor changes in federal, state, and local employment laws.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in HR generalist, payroll, and/or benefits administration roles.
• Hands-on experience with HRIS platforms, preferably UKG Pro.
• Strong working knowledge of federal and California employment laws.
• Experience supporting HR operations for a small California-based workforce.
• Ability to manage sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Must be based in or able to work hybrid in Santa Monica, CA.

Nice to have

• SHRM-CP or PHR certification.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Psychology, Business, or a related field.
• Knowledge of New York and Connecticut employment laws.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid time off and tuition reimbursement.
• Opportunity to work within a world-renowned animation studio environment.