Payroll/HR Generalist, U.S.

The Company:

Univers provides the world’s most comprehensive decarbonization system.

We help companies and countries optimize energy systems and reduce carbon emissions with accurate, reliable, and actionable decarbonization data. Our EnOS platform connects on-the-ground operational technology and in-the-cloud intelligence to deliver real-time energy data and data-driven carbon monitoring, reporting, and abatement.

With 220 million devices connected, over 560GW of renewable energy under management, and a community of over 500 customers including Microsoft, Starbucks, and HSBC, we’re helping leading businesses get the world to net zero—and what comes after it.

The challenge is immense, but so are the rewards. Join our team and help move the planet towards sustainability.  For more information, please visit https://univers.com

Univers is seeking a Payroll/HR Generalist that supports a wide range of HR operations, focusing on benefits administration, HRIS management, compliance, and the employee lifecycle processes across the U.S.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Payroll Administration
• Process bi-weekly and semi-monthly payrolls accurately and on time, including review of time entries, deductions, and adjustments.
• Coordinate payroll funding requests and ensure alignment with Finance for funding deadlines and accuracy.
• Maintain knowledge of and ensure compliance with multi-state payroll tax laws and reporting requirements.
• Partner with Finance on payroll reconciliation, journal entries, reporting, and month-end close processes.
• Manage year-end payroll activities including W-2 and T4 generation, audits, and tax filings.
• Act as the primary point of contact for payroll-related inquiries and issue resolution.

2. Benefits Administration
• Administer U.S. employee benefits through ADP and direct carrier systems, including plan setup, employee enrolment(s), changes, terminations, and issue resolution.
• Serve as the primary liaison for COBRA and employee leave programs (e.g., FMLA, STD/LTD).
• Support ACA compliance, ensuring accurate system configuration and timely submission of required filings.
• Collaborate with benefits brokers on plan design, compliance, renewals, and employee communications.
• Co-lead the annual U.S. open enrolment process, including system configuration, communications, and logistics.
• Coordinate and promote employee wellness initiatives.

3. HRIS & Systems Management
• Maintain HRIS data integrity, including security roles, benefit plan configuration, and routine audits.
• Generate and analyze HRIS reports to support decision-making and compliance tracking.
• Support ADP Workforce Now administration, including system updates and process improvements.

4. Employee Lifecycle & Compliance
• Manage onboarding processes for U.S. hires via ADP, including compliance documentation and system setup.
• Facilitate onboarding for Canadian employees via Globalization Partners (GP).
• Manage termination workflows, including exit documentation, system updates, and coordination of final pay and benefits.
• Conduct employment verifications and manage background check processes in compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation of employee changes and updates across systems.

5. Compliance & Risk Management
• Partner with insurance brokers to manage workers' compensation coverage and ensure ongoing compliance.
• Maintain compliance with federal and state employment regulations, including those related to ACA, COBRA, and wage and hour laws.
• Support HR Director in annual budgeting and benefits cost forecasting.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in Payroll, HR operations or benefits administration, preferably in a multi-state environment.
  • Proficiency with ADP Workforce Now required; experience with Globalization Partners (GP) a plus.
  • Strong understanding of U.S. benefits regulations (ACA, COBRA, ERISA) and Canadian employment practices.
  • Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

Univers is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.