Head of People Operations

Cogent Scientific, an insourced contract research organization in the Life Science industry, is looking for the right people to accomplish our Mission: to support the life sciences industry with specialized laboratory services delivered by professional scientists—advancing research, fostering collaboration, and accelerating innovation with quality and a commitment to excellence. As we continue to expand our footprint across the country, we have opened a role for the Director of People Operations who will be responsible for:

• Human Resources Leadership

• Serve as the company's primary HR expert and advisor to leadership and employees.

• Develop and maintain HR policies, procedures, and employee handbook to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
• Partner with management to align HR practices with company goals and culture.
• Identify opportunities to improve HR processes and employee experience.

• Develop and implement a plan to develop and retain employees as well as talent development and succession plans for key roles.

• Compensation & Benefits

• Administer and manage employee compensation programs, including salary structure, pay adjustments, and incentive plans.

• Manage employee benefits programs (health, dental, vision, retirement, etc.), including renewals, enrollment, and vendor relations.
• Conduct periodic market analysis to ensure competitive and equitable compensation and benefits offerings.

• Support leaders in hiring decisions and workforce planning.

• Employee Relations & Performance

• Serve as a trusted resource for employees and managers on workplace issues, performance management, and policy interpretation.

• Guide and coach leaders on handling employee relations matters, investigations, and performance improvement plans.

• Promote a culture of communication, accountability, and respect.

• Compliance, Risk Management, and HR Administration

• Ensure compliance with all employment laws and regulations, including FLSA, FMLA, ADA, EEOC, HIPAA, and state-specific requirements.

• Manage employee files, HRIS records, and reporting requirements (EEO-1, ACA, etc.).
• Maintain accurate HR data, records, and documentation through the HRIS system.

Fostering relationships with existing employees is essential to be successful in this position, so impeccable communication skills – both verbal and written – are necessary. Flexibility is required, as collaboration between all leaders across the various parts of the company is expected. This position requires a transformational candidate who can think and act strategically to support Cogent's existing and future employees.

Finally, it is imperative that candidates embody our Core Values:

• Client Focused: We only succeed when our clients succeed.
• Outstanding: We deliver meticulous results through outstanding performance.
• Good: We act ethically and morally.
• Employee-Centric: We honor and support our employees.
• Nimble: We are prepared to adapt in an ever-changing industry.
• Team-Oriented: We collaborate with each other and with our clients.

In return, Cogent Scientific offers competitive pay, an attractive benefits package (including medical, dental, and vision healthcare, matching 401(k) and Health Savings Account contributions, parental leave program, generous PTO, hybrid work schedule, etc.) and an opportunity to help build and own the HR function in a growing company. In addition, you'll have the autonomy to design people programs, shape company culture, and ensure that our workplace remains supportive, compliant, and forward-thinking.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have The Following Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
• 7+ years of progressive HR experience, including generalist and leadership responsibilities; experience in a small business or startup strongly preferred.
• Comprehensive knowledge of federal and multiple state employment laws and HR best practices.
• Experience managing benefits, compensation, employee relations, and compliance.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and credibility across all levels of the organization.
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• HR certification (SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR) preferred.

This job posting will close by 12/31/2025 or when a candidate is identified, whichever comes first.