Human Resources Generalist

The HR Generalist serves as a member of the Human Resources team at Bloomsbury Publishing US, providing operational excellence across core HR functions while contributing to broader people initiatives. This role is ideal for an HR professional who thrives on getting things right. Someone equally comfortable managing day-to-day transactions and partnering with managers on people-related matters. The HR Generalist will be the first point of contact for employees and a key operational partner to the HR Business Partners.

Payroll & Benefits Administration

• Partner with the Finance team to process biweekly or semi-monthly payroll accurately and on time

• Maintain payroll records and resolve discrepancies with appropriate urgency

• Support open enrollment processes and respond to employee benefits inquiries

Onboarding & Offboarding

• Coordinate end-to-end onboarding for new hires, including I-9 verification, new hire paperwork, system access setup, and orientation scheduling

• Manage offboarding logistics including separation paperwork, exit interviews surveys, and payroll and benefits system deactivation.

HRIS & Records Management

• Maintain accuracy and integrity of the HRIS system, including employee data updates, status changes, and reporting

• Organize and maintain personnel files (digital) in accordance with legal requirements and internal standards

• Manage the HR shared drive to ensure documentation is current, organized, and accessible

Employee Relations

• Serve as the first point of contact for general employee questions related to policies, benefits, time off, and HR processes

• Triage inquiries, resolve routine issues independently, and escalate complex or sensitive matters to the HR Business Partners appropriately

• Maintain a professional, approachable presence that builds trust across the organization

Compliance & Audits

• Assist in maintaining HR compliance across federal, state, and local regulations, including multi-state requirements

• Conduct periodic HR audits of personnel files, I-9s, and HRIS data to ensure accuracy and compliance

• Support reporting requirements including EEO-1, benefits compliance, and other regulatory filings as needed

HR Operations & Projects

• Contribute to HR team projects and process improvement initiatives with increasing ownership over time

• Assist with policy updates, HR communications, and special projects as assigned

• Support the HR Business Partners in day-to-day operations and strategic priorities as needed

Required

• 2–4 years of HR experience in a generalist, coordinator, or operations-focused role

• Working knowledge of core HR functions: payroll processing, onboarding/offboarding, benefits employee relations, and compliance

• Experience with HRIS platforms; Paylocity is preferred

• Experience with project and task management systems (ex. Trello, Asana)

• Familiarity with federal employment law 

• Must have experience supporting multi-state employers and hands-on experience with California employment law.

• Strong attention to detail and a high degree of discretion with confidential information

• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities

• Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in human resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

• PHR or a PHR certification (or active pursuit)

• Experience in publishing, media, nonprofit, or mission-driven organizations

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Reliability & Follow-Through — builds trust by doing what they say they will do, when they say they will do it

• Operational Precision — catches what others miss, takes pride in accuracy

• People-Centeredness — approaches employees with warmth and professionalism

• Adaptability — comfortable shifting priorities in a dynamic environment

• Collaborative Mindset — strong team player who also works well independently

WORK ENVIRONMENT & EXPECTATIONS

This is a hybrid role based out of our NYC or Greenbelt, MD office. The HR Generalist is expected to be on-site on up to 3 business days consistent with team norms and business needs. 

Equal Opportunity Employment

Bloomsbury Publishing USA is committed to a merit-based, equal-opportunity workplace. We hire, retain, and promote employees based on individual qualifications, skills, and performance, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Our company fosters an inclusive environment where all employees are treated fairly and have the opportunity to succeed based on their abilities and contributions. We remain dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and fairness in all aspects of employment. 

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Vision insurance
• Dental insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid parental leave
• Hybrid Work Schedule