HR Operations Specialist ( Europe and US payroll)

Description Robert Half's HR Solutions team is seeking an experienced HR Operations Specialist to support payroll, benefits, and HR operations for a growing, multi‑state and international workforce. This role partners closely with the HR Manager and owns the execution of critical HR operations while helping stabilize, scale, and improve processes as the organization grows. This is a highly hands‑on role for someone comfortable managing complexity, transitioning off a PEO environment, and owning payroll and benefits processes from beginning to end. Key ResponsibilitiesHR Operations Partnership + Partner closely with the HR Manager on all HR operations activities. + Support payroll, benefits, compliance, and operational execution across U.S. and global employee populations. + Ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance across HR operational workflows. Payroll Administration (U.S. & Global) + Own end‑to‑end payroll processing, including inputs, execution, reconciliation, and reporting. + Manage multi‑state U.S. payroll, including state tax compliance and state registrations. + Support global payroll across 3-5 countries, ensuring compliant and timely execution. + Process compensation changes including bonuses, merit increases, commissions, and one‑time payments. + Support the transition off a PEO and into internally managed payroll systems. Required European Payroll Experience + Hands‑on payroll experience supporting employees in at least 3 of the following 5 countries: + Germany + France + Italy + United Kingdom + Navigate country‑specific payroll regulations, taxation, and statutory requirements. + Partner with vendors or internal systems to ensure ongoing compliance. Benefits Administration + Support benefits administration and payroll‑related benefits deductions and allocations. + Partner with the HR Manager to manage employer‑paid benefits and resolve discrepancies. + Serve as a resource for employee benefits questions and issue resolution. Compliance & HR Operations Support + Support PEO‑related administration including workers' compensation, benefits billing, and employer obligations. + Assist with state registrations and re‑registrations as the organization transitions off a PEO. + Track and administer leaves of absence, ensuring accurate documentation and system updates (typically 2-3 per year). + Maintain accurate, audit‑ready payroll and benefits documentation. Requirements Must Have + Proven experience managing U.S. and global payroll, supporting 3-5 countries. + European payroll experience in at least 3 of the following: Germany, France, Italy, UK. + Strong background in multi‑state payroll, including state tax registrations. + Demonstrated ability to own payroll end to end, including reconciliation. + Working knowledge of benefits administration and payroll/benefits integration. + Experience transitioning off a PEO and supporting payroll/system migration. + High attention to detail and comfort operating in evolving or imperfect systems. Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more. All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms) and Privacy Notice (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/privacy) .