Senior Human Resources Generalist

Inspired by daring artists, MoMA PS1 is committed to the exploration of contemporary art and culture, broadening perspectives on the issues of our day, and engaging New Yorkers and communities across the world. Founded in 1976, the institution was a defining force in the alternative space movement in New York City, transforming a nineteenth-century public schoolhouse in Long Island City into a site for artistic experimentation and creativity. PS1 has been a member of New York City’s Cultural Institutions Group (CIG) since 1982 and affiliated with The Museum of Modern Art since 2000.

The Senior HR Generalist is a strategic partner and operational leader reporting to the HR Director. This role drives program improvements, leads complex employee relations matters, and provides expert guidance across payroll, compliance, labor relations, talent management, and workforce analytics. The ideal candidate operates independently, exercises sound judgment, and serves as a trusted resource across all levels of a mission-driven nonprofit.

• Own end-to-end bi-weekly/semi-monthly payroll for all employee types; serve as the primary institutional payroll system expert
• Lead audits, reconciliations, year-end close (W-2, ACA 1094-C/1095-C), and regulatory compliance
• Design and maintain HR dashboards covering headcount, turnover, compensation equity, and benefits utilization; prepare EEO-1, OSHA, Form 5500, and NYC-specific filings

• Lead full-cycle onboarding (offer letters, I-9/E-Verify, benefits enrollment, orientation) and structured offboarding (exit interviews, COBRA notices, final pay)
• Analyze exit interview data and surface retention insights to leadership

• Partner with hiring managers on job architecture, salary bands, and equitable full-cycle recruitment for mid-level and senior roles
• Execute sourcing strategies advancing diversity; maintain ATS compliance with EEOC and NYC Pay Transparency Law

• Advise on complex ER matters; lead workplace investigations with rigor and thorough documentation
• Administer collective bargaining agreements; manage grievance processes and support contract negotiations

• Serve as subject matter expert on federal, NYS, and NYC employment law; own the employee handbook and compliance calendar
• Function as primary HRIS administrator (UKG, BambooHR, or equivalent); lead system improvements and staff training
• Design engagement initiatives, administer climate surveys, and contribute actively to DEI strategy

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 5–7 years of progressive HR generalist experience with expertise in payroll, benefits, leave, employee relations, and compliance
• Hands-on payroll platform experience (UKG, ADP, Paycom, or equivalent)
• Expert knowledge of federal, NYS, and NYC employment law
• Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP); experience with ATS and HRIS platforms
• Strong interpersonal skills; ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion

• Experience in a nonprofit, cultural institution, or mission-driven organization
• PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP certification
• Experience in unionized environments with CBA administration
• Passion for the arts and public cultural institutions