Talent Acquisition and HR Operations Lead

About the position

Lessard Design Inc. (LDI) has been shaping the future of architecture for over 35 years. With a $25M Architecture division and a $20M Real Estate Development arm, the firm is renowned for its innovative designs and its commitment to creating vibrant, thriving communities. LDI’s diverse portfolio includes award-winning projects across the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, ranging from high-rise towers to garden apartments. By blending creative ingenuity with real estate expertise, LDI is redefining what’s possible in the built environment. This is a fully in-office position based in McLean (Tysons/Vienna), offering competitive compensation and benefits. Position Overview LDI is conducting a search for an experienced Talent and HR Operations professional to lead full-cycle recruitment and people operations. This role partners closely with senior leadership to understand staffing needs and recruit top talent across design, technical, project management, and administrative roles, ensuring a seamless onboarding experience. In addition to recruitment, the role oversees employee records, performance reviews, compensation tracking, benefits administration, and compliance with employment and immigration regulations. The ideal candidate is a proactive self-starter with strong sourcing and communication skills, capable of assessing candidates for both technical expertise and cultural fit. Acting as a trusted partner to leadership and staff, this person will balance hands-on operational responsibilities with initiatives that foster a positive, collaborative, and engaging studio culture. Responsibilities Talent, People & Studio Operations Lead full-cycle hiring for a growing architecture and design studio, supporting roles across design, technical, project management, and studio operations Work closely with Principals and Studio Leads to understand immediate project needs, long-term staffing plans, and studio culture Develop authentic, relationship-driven sourcing strategies through professional networks, academic connections, referrals, and industry events Review resumes, portfolios, and work samples with an eye for design quality, technical skill, and cultural fit Coordinate and participate in interviews and reference checks, ensuring a thoughtful and welcoming candidate experience Manage pre-hire processes and lead new hire onboarding, helping new team members integrate smoothly into the studio Maintain accurate, confidential candidate and employee records Track recruiting activity and provide clear, practical insights to leadership on hiring progress and market conditions Continuously improve recruiting and onboarding processes to support a positive studio experience Serve as a trusted point of contact for candidates and staff, acting with discretion and care Anticipate staffing needs and address gaps proactively to support project continuity Build and maintain relationships with architecture and design schools; attend career fairs and studio events as needed Compensation, Records & Employee Relations Maintain personnel files and ensure documentation is accurate, organized, and compliant Coordinate performance review cycles and support Principals and Studio Leads with timelines, guidance, and documentation Prepare and track compensation and bonus review materials Support offboarding processes, including exit conversations and documentation Ensure compliance with employment regulations, including EEOC requirements and state labor postings (MD, DC, VA) Assist with performance improvement conversations and related documentation Draft and share studio communications and help plan team gatherings, celebrations, and culture-building activities Immigration and Work Authorization Coordinate employment-based visa processes in partnership with immigration counsel Track documentation, timelines, and approvals, serving as a resource for international team members Maintain I-9 records and public access files in compliance with regulations Benefits & Well-Being Administer employee benefit programs, including health, dental, vision, life, disability, and retirement plans Process enrollments, changes, and terminations and provide clear guidance to staff Coordinate COBRA administration and track benefits for employees on leave Reconcile monthly benefits invoices Support 401(k) administration, including enrollments, required notices, and annual audits Studio Support and Professional Development Manage relationships with external HR, benefits, and professional development partners Maintain and update the studio organizational chart Coordinate professional development efforts, including licensure tracking, certifications, and informal learning opportunities such as lunch-and-learns Provide administrative support to Marketing, Accounting, and Office Management as needed Assist with special projects that support studio operations and growth Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience 5+ years of progressive experience in recruiting and human resources, preferably in a professional services, creative, or design-focused environment Proven experience managing full-cycle recruitment across a variety of roles and seniority levels Strong knowledge of HR operations, employee relations, and personnel recordkeeping Working knowledge of U.S. employment laws and regulations, including EEOC compliance and I-9 requirements Experience coordinating employee benefits programs and working with external vendors and brokers Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion, professionalism, and confidentiality Excellent interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Preferred Qualifications Experience recruiting for architecture, design, engineering, or other creative/technical disciplines Familiarity with immigration processes and working with immigration counsel on employment-based visas Experience administering 401(k) plans and supporting benefits audits Experience developing employer branding, university partnerships, or early-career recruiting programs HR certification (PHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP) preferred but not required Experience with HRIS, ATS, and benefits administration platforms

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