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
