Full job description
Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced HR Operations Coordinator to manage critical employee-related functions across our front-line retail store network. This role will serve as the central point of contact for team management support, enforcement of company policies, assistance with timekeeping and scheduling, training coordination, and cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring operational efficiency and compliance with labor regulations.
The ideal candidate will have a solid background in HR support for chain store operations, a keen eye for detail, and strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
This role requires regular travel (40%) to store locations across states in the Eastern U.S. for on-site support, employee engagement, and operational coordination.
Key Responsibilities
(1) Scheduling Timekeeping Management
Create and maintain weekly schedules for all store employees using scheduling software to optimize labor costs while meeting operational needs;
Monitor and enforce attendance policies, including tracking tardiness, early departures, and unexcused absences, and handle time-off requests in accordance with company policies and state laws (e.g., FLSA, paid sick leave requirements);
Reconcile timekeeping records with payroll systems, ensuring accurate tracking of work hours, overtime, and breaks to prevent compliance risks.
(2) Onboarding, Offboarding Employee Relations
Lead local recruitment efforts for store employees, including candidate screening, interviewing, and extending offers;
Manage onboarding and offboarding processes, including completion of employment documents (e.g., I-9, tax forms, COBRA notice) and system access (e.g., time clock systems, training portals);
Respond to employee inquiries regarding policies, benefits, and scheduling, acting as a liaison between staff and management to foster a positive team environment;
Serve as the first point of contact for employee relations matters at the store level, promptly reporting and addressing conflicts, performance issues, and violations of attendance or workplace policies;
Support the HR team in investigating and documenting complaints, reports, or other misconduct, ensuring timely, fair, and legally compliant resolution;
Assist in implementing disciplinary actions, including verbal/written warnings and performance improvement plans (PIPs), and maintain documentation for audit readiness;
Manage initial workplace injury reporting, coordinate medical evaluations, and follow up on Workers' Compensation claims in compliance with OSHA and state-specific laws;
Provide guidance to both managers and employees on how to raise concerns and complaints, promoting a respectful, inclusive, and compliant workplace culture.
(3) Training Coordination Performance Tracking
Facilitate new hire onboarding training;
Develop and maintain a training calendar for mandatory programs (e.g., food safety, anti-sexual harassment) and skill-based workshops (e.g., customer service, POS system operations);
Use a Learning Management System (LMS) to track training completion, ensuring compliance with federal and state requirements (e.g., food handler certifications, OSHA regulations);
Collaborate with store managers to identify training gaps and develop targeted growth plans for team members.
(4) Policy Compliance Process Improvement
Ensure compliance with company HR policies and local labor laws, including maintaining accurate employee records (e.g., attendance data, training certificates) for at least three years, per FLSA requirements;
Analyze scheduling and attendance trends to identify inefficiencies (e.g., excessive overtime, high no-show rates) and propose improvements (e.g., automated reminders, shift swap policies);
Assist in preparing for labor audits by organizing relevant documentation and ensuring compliance with biometric data privacy laws (e.g., California CCPA on fingerprint/face recognition systems).
Qualifications
Experience: At least 2 years of experience in HR operations, scheduling, or team coordination in retail, hospitality, or chain restaurant environments;
Technical Skills: Proficiency in HRIS/scheduling tools (e.g., ADP, Workday, When I Work) and MS Office software (especially Excel for data analysis and Outlook for communication);
Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with U.S. labor laws (FLSA) and state-specific regulations (e.g., scheduling and rest requirements, paid sick leave);
Language Skills: Bilingual in English and Chinese (spoken and written) to support effective communication with headquarters and a multicultural workforce;
Soft Skills: Strong organizational abilities, stress resilience, problem-solving mindset, and interpersonal skills to manage employee relations and resolve conflicts effectively.
What We Offer:
Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Employee discount on our tea products
A collaborative and entrepreneurial team environment
Opportunity to shape a key function in a rapidly expanding brand
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
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