Human Resources Specialist

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort isn't just a place to work—it's a place to thrive Located on Florida's gorgeous Emerald Coast, our resort is packed with sunshine, scenic views, and a team that feels more like family. As our HR Payroll Specialist, you'll play a key role behind the scenes, keeping things running smoothly while enjoying a fun, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same. If you're passionate about people, love staying organized, and want to work where others vacation—this is the opportunity for you

Job Summary

The Human Resources Professional supports daily HR operations for Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort and Hotel Effie Sandestin, with a focus on employee housing management, international workforce programs (H-2B and J-1), compliance, and employee relations. This role plays a vital part in fostering a positive and professional workplace culture while ensuring all HR, housing, and visa processes run smoothly across both properties.
On-Site ONLY position.

This position rotates between Sandestin and Hotel Effie, reporting directly to the HR Director. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates exceptional organization and follow-through, and remains calm under pressure while balancing multiple priorities and deadlines.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Core HR Functions

• Support daily HR operations and employee inquiries with professionalism and confidentiality.
• Assist with onboarding coordination and compliance training schedules.
• Maintain personnel files and ensure record retention compliance.
• Coordinate and track performance evaluations, disciplinary actions, and employee relations documentation.
• Manage and maintain workers' compensation reporting, documentation, and follow-up with internal and external parties.
• Support HR Director in investigations, employee relations, and compliance processes; act independently when assigned.
• Participate in HR compliance audits, safety initiatives, and reporting programs.

International Programs (H-2B / J-1)

• Lead and manage the H-2B and J-1 visa programs from start to finish, including recruitment coordination, compliance, onboarding, housing support, and employee relations.
• Serve as a key contact for seasonal and international team members, ensuring a supportive and welcoming experience.
• Collaborate with Pabian Law, Finance, and Operations to ensure petition compliance and timely documentation.

Housing Operations

• Work collaboratively with Housing and Engineering on employee housing, including assignments, occupancy tracking, communication with residents, maintenance coordination, inspections, and lease compliance.
• Maintain accurate housing records, deposits, and policy compliance.
• Work collaboratively with the Engineering, Finance, and Operations teams to resolve housing issues and maintain safety and compliance standards.

ADP Workforce Now

• Assist with data integrity, workflow approvals, ongoing maintenance and system updates of ADP and other systems used in the HR department.
• Provide troubleshooting support for employees and supervisors as needed.

Training, Safety & Compliance

• Coordinate and facilitate training sessions, including compliance and leadership training.
• Participate in safety, risk management, and compliance programs to ensure adherence to regulatory and internal standards.
• Support HR audits, reporting, and internal initiatives as directed by the HR Director.

Backup & Secondary Responsibilities

• Serve as secondary support for immigration processes (H-2B, J-1, and Green Card applications).
• Support new hire orientation when primary staff is unavailable.
• Assist with unemployment claims as needed.
• Provide backup support for payroll processing when primary staff is unavailable.
• Support benefits open enrollment, wellness events, and employee engagement initiatives.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 3 years in a solo HR role or 5+ years of HR experience in a multi-functional environment.
• Proven experience managing HR processes independently, with strong prioritization and organizational skills.
• Experience with international employment programs (H-2B, J-1) strongly preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).
• Experience with ADP Workforce Now preferred; Rent Manager familiarity a plus.
• Strong understanding of U.S. labor laws, payroll regulations, and employee relations principles.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Calm, professional demeanor with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Team-oriented approach with a focus on collaboration, fairness, and balanced decision-making.

Work Environment & Schedule

• Office-based position
  with regular movement across resort properties.
• May require occasional after-hours or weekend work for housing needs, international arrivals, or audit preparation.
• Frequent interaction with internal departments, housing staff, and international partners.
• Maintains a professional, approachable presence representing HR and the Sandestin brand.

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and holiday pay.
• Resort-wide employee discounts and access to resort amenities.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.

EOE M/D/F/V