HR & Business Operations Manager

Company Description

Harken Research is an ISO17025 accredited testing laboratory located in the Los Angeles area with two core business units: consumer product testing and pharmaceutical contract research. Within the consumer product testing unit dietary supplements, food, and cosmetics are the focus – with additional testing services catering to other industries. Our strengths are our ability to offer customized testing and problem solving to address client needs; excellent customer service; and quick turnaround times.

Summary

Harken Research is seeking a highly capable and proactive HR & Business Operations Manager to take ownership of human resources, administrative operations, and core accounting support functions within our growing laboratory.

This is a critical, high-impact role responsible for bringing structure, consistency, and accountability to internal processes. The ideal candidate will serve as a trusted HR partner to leadership, helping navigate employee performance, disciplinary matters, and communication, while also ensuring smooth day-to-day business operations.

Duties

Human Resources & Employee Relations

* Manage full-cycle recruiting coordination:

* Post job openings, screen candidates, and conduct first-round interviews for all roles

* Prepare candidate summaries, notes, and hiring recommendations for management

* Coordinate and attend on-site interviews

* Partner with leadership to address employee performance and behavioral issues

* Prepare and maintain clear, compliant documentation for underperformance, warnings, and terminations

* Attend employee review and disciplinary meetings to:

* Structure conversations and keep discussions focused and professional

* De-escalate tension and guide effective communication

* Ensure managers communicate effectively and appropriately

* Advise management on best practices for employee communication, performance management, and conflict resolution

* Coordinate onboarding, including all new hire paperwork and orientation

* Administer employee benefits and maintain HR records

* Process payroll and ensure accuracy

* Enforce company policies (e.g., break/lunch compliance) and ensure consistency

* Train employees on core policies and procedures

* Maintain an open-door policy to address employee concerns

* Issue employee badges and manage access-related documentation

* Recommend and implement improvements to HR policies, forms, and the employee handbook

Accounting, Billing & Financial Coordination

* Assist with invoicing and billing processes to ensure accuracy and timeliness

* Review vendor invoices, resolve discrepancies, and process payments

* Perform collections outreach (calls and emails) to ensure timely client payments

* Coordinate with the company’s external CPA/accounting firm

* Help ensure taxes and other financial obligations are paid on time

* Maintain organized financial records and documentation

* Support additional accounting and financial processes as needed

Business Operations & Office Management

* Serve as the primary point of contact for facility-related issues

* Coordinate contractors for building maintenance, repairs, and security needs

* Communicate with landlord regarding building and facility issues

* Oversee janitorial services and ensure quality of work

* Maintain organized records (physical and digital), including scanning and filing

* Manage compliance-related renewals (business licenses, insurance, waste disposal permits)

* Coordinate visits from clients, vendors, and service providers

Purchasing & Vendor Management

* Order laboratory and office supplies

* Compare pricing across vendors to optimize cost and quality

* Build and maintain strong vendor relationships

* Track orders and follow up on deliveries and backorders

* Address and resolve vendor issues proactively

Qualifications

* 5 years of experience in HR, operations, or administrative leadership roles (multi-functional roles strongly preferred)

* Demonstrated experience handling employee relations, performance management, and disciplinary processes

* Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills

* Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism

* Experience supporting accounting, billing, or financial coordination functions

* Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook); experience with HR/payroll/accounting systems is a plus

* Experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, or regulated environment is a plus

Key Traits for Success

* Strong emotional intelligence and ability to navigate difficult conversations professionally

* Confident communicator who can guide and redirect conversations in real time

* Highly dependable with excellent follow-through and attention to detail

* Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset

* Ability to operate independently while supporting leadership

* Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-growth environment

Compensation & Benefits

* $85,000 – $110,000/year (depending on experience)

* Health, dental, and vision insurance

* Paid holidays and PTO

* 401k with company match

* Opportunity for advancement

To Apply

Please include your resume and cover letter.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $85,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year

Benefits:

* 401(k)

* 401(k) matching

* Dental insurance

* Health insurance

* Paid time off

* Vision insurance