Fractional HRBP / HR Generalist (Consultant, Contractor)

POSITION DETAILS Location: Chicago, IL Type: Contract / Fractional Work Model: Hybrid Compensation: $30-$50/hr M&A Experience Required | Paylocity Required Duration: 3-month contract with option to convert to permanent hire WHO WE ARE livingHR is The Work Agency™, a national boutique HR advisory and consulting firm built to make work better. We partner with organizations to deliver human-centric, future-of-work-ready HR managed services, professional services, and products. We believe in taking exceptional care of our people so they can deliver exceptional outcomes for clients, partners, and communities. POSITION OVERVIEW We are seeking an experienced HR Business Partner / Generalist with demonstrated M&A integration expertise to support a client engagement based in Chicago. This hybrid role requires a consultative professional who can operate independently, navigate complex organizational change, and deliver credible HR partnership at pace. RESPONSIBILITIES • Deliver human-centric HR solutions that improve workplace experiences • Support M&A integration activities including org design, cultural onboarding, workforce transitions, and employee communications • Serve as a trusted advisor throughout the engagement lifecycle • Apply consulting, project management, and communication best practices • Partner with livingHR Principals and client stakeholders to drive measurable value • Manage and optimize HR workflows and employee data within Paylocity • Track billable work and maintain accurate project documentation • Align people strategies with broader business objectives REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS • Paylocity experience is required -- hands-on configuration, reporting, and day-to-day HR operations • Demonstrated M&A HR experience including due diligence support, integration planning, and workforce transition • 5+ years in an HRBP or HR Generalist role, ideally within a consulting, professional services, or multi-client environment • Availability to work on-site in Chicago on a hybrid schedule as client needs require • Experience working directly with clients in consulting, professional services, PEOs, or agencies • Strong advisory, stakeholder management, and executive communication skills • Ability to operate independently in a fast-paced, client-facing environment • Comfort working in flexible, project-based engagements PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS • PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or platform certifications • Experience supporting PE-backed or high-growth organizations through rapid change • Familiarity with multi-state HR compliance, particularly Illinois employment law • Willingness to travel occasionally as client needs require WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT livingHR engages contract consultants on a project-by-project basis. Engagement timing, scope, and duration vary based on client needs. Consultants may be considered for multiple opportunities over time as part of our long-term talent community. This engagement is structured as a 3-month contract with the potential for conversion to a permanent hire based on mutual fit. livingHR · The Work Agency™ · livinghr.com