Human Resource Compliance Specialist

Location: Chesapeake, VA (in-office)

Reports To: Director of Human Resources

Employment Type: Full-Time Exempt

Work Week: M – F (40 hours, in-office)

Position Summary: The Human Resource Compliance Specialist is responsible for ensuring the organization's HR policies, procedures, and practices comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations. This role will serve as the primary point of contact for compliance-related matters within the HR department, including audits, reporting, and policy development. In addition to compliance duties, this position will provide support across various HR functions when needed to include recruiting, onboarding, benefits administration, open enrollment, and other HR initiatives when necessary. Background check and US Citizenship are requirements of this position.

Compliance Management

• Monitor and ensure compliance with all applicable employment laws and regulations (e.g., FLSA, FMLA, ADA, EEO, HIPAA).
• Develop, update, and maintain HR policies and procedures to align with legal requirements and best practices.
• Document internal processes and procedures and plans for internal audit to maintain compliance with all federal and state record retention guidelines and safe handling and destruction of such records.
• Conduct regular audits of HR processes, employee files, and documentation to ensure compliance.
• Prepare and submit required compliance reports to regulatory agencies.
• Serve as the primary liaison for internal and external audits related to HR compliance.
• Stay current on changes in labor laws and regulations and communicate updates to HR leadership and management teams.

HR Support Functions

• Assist with full-cycle recruiting, including job postings, candidate screening, and interview coordination.
• Support onboarding processes for new hires, ensuring compliance with documentation and training requirements.
• Assist during annual benefits open enrollment, including employee communication and troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with HR team members on employee relations and other HR initiatives as needed.
• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records in HRIS systems.

Desired Attributes:

• Self-Starter: Demonstrates initiative and resourcefulness; proactively researches and identifies solutions rather than relying solely on others for answers.
• Independent & Collaborative: Thrives both in team settings and when working autonomously, maintaining accountability without the need for close supervision.
• Problem-Solver: Approaches challenges with curiosity and persistence, leveraging available tools and information to resolve issues effectively.
• Adaptable & Resilient: Comfortable navigating ambiguity and adjusting priorities as needed while maintaining a positive, solution-focused mindset.

Core Competencies

• Integrity and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing regulations and organizational needs.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Standard office environment with occasional travel for training or events.
• Ability to sit for extended periods and use a computer regularly.
• Bending, lifting up to 15 lbs.

Education: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Experience:

• 5+ years of HR experience with a specific focus on compliance.
• Experience in recruiting, onboarding, and benefits administration preferred.

Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of employment laws and HR compliance requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work collaboratively in a team environment.

Certifications: PHR, SPHR, or SHRM-CP preferred.