Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Human Resources Specialist to join our Oakland office. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys being the go-to HR resource in a collegial, fast-paced professional services environment. You will own the day-to-day HR function, from onboarding and benefits to compliance and employee relations, while partnering with firm leadership on the programs that keep our team thriving. Prior experience in a law firm or other professional services setting is strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Full-cycle recruiting support: Coordinate job postings, schedule interviews, communicate with candidates, and manage offer logistics for attorney and staff roles.
• Background checks and pre-employment screening: Administer background check processes through our third-party vendor, verify results, ensure FCRA and California ICRAA compliance, and manage adverse action procedures where applicable.
• Onboarding and offboarding: Run new hire orientation, coordinate I-9 verification, set up benefits enrollment, and manage departure logistics and exit interviews.
• Benefits administration: Serve as the first point of contact for questions on health, dental, vision, 401(k), FSA, commuter, and leave programs. Coordinate open enrollment and partner with brokers and carriers.
• Leaves of absence: Administer FMLA, CFRA, PDL, PFL, and ADA accommodation requests with sensitivity and attention to California-specific requirements.
• HRIS and records: Maintain accurate personnel files, process changes in the HRIS, and generate reports for leadership as needed.
• Compliance: Keep the firm current with multi-state, federal, California, and local employment law requirements, including required trainings, postings, and recordkeeping.
• Employee relations: Provide a thoughtful, confidential sounding board for employees and managers on day-to-day workplace questions, escalating to firm leadership when appropriate.
• Payroll coordination: Partner with the payroll function to ensure accurate, timely processing of new hires, terminations, and status changes.
• Culture and engagement: Help plan firm events, recognition programs, and professional development initiatives that support retention and morale.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant HR experience.
• 3+ years of generalist HR experience, with at least 1–2 years in a law firm or other professional services environment strongly preferred.
• Working knowledge of California employment law, including leave laws, wage and hour basics, and pre-employment screening rules (FCRA, ICRAA, Ban the Box).
• Direct experience managing background check and onboarding workflows end-to-end.
• Excellent judgment and discretion — this role touches confidential information daily.
• Strong written and verbal communication, with a warm, approachable style.
• Proficiency with HRIS platforms (e.g., ADP, Paylocity, BambooHR, or similar) and Microsoft Office.
• PHR, SHRM-CP, or California-specific HR certification is a plus.

Why Join Us

• Mission-driven work. Support a firm whose practice is dedicated to protecting employees and holding employers accountable.
• Real ownership. This is a seat with visibility, not a box-checking role. Your work will shape the employee experience at the firm.
• Competitive compensation. A market-competitive salary based on experience, plus an annual bonus opportunity.
• Comprehensive benefits. Medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) with firm contribution; generous PTO; paid holidays; commuter benefits; and paid parental leave.