Jacquie Gonoza

• Lead all HR operations for a multi-location school bus transportation company, supporting over 500 employees and contractors.
• Developed and implemented over 30 professional, compliant HR and operational policies, aligning with DOT regulations and state labor laws.
• Created and manage a yearly HR calendar covering benefits enrollment, safety training, drug testing, unemployment reviews, and strategic planning.
• Partner with recruiting, safety, operations, and finance to drive retention initiatives, compliance programs, and seasonal hiring campaigns.
• Oversee employee relations, handle investigations, coach managers, and ensure consistent application of policies.
• Manage benefits administration, open enrollment, payroll deductions, and vendor relationships.
• Conduct MVR/Clearinghouse pulls, random drug screens, and manage SAP follow-ups for DOT compliance.
• Spearheaded the onboarding training plan for CDL Drivers.
• Partnered closely with company attorneys on all litigation and legal compliance matters, including employee disputes, terminations, unemployment hearings, and policy defense, ensuring risk mitigation and alignment with employment law best practices.

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS

• Collaborated with leadership to develop a digital onboarding platform, streamlining the new hire process and increasing new hire engagement.
• Designed and implemented a comprehensive CDL driver training and onboarding program, increasing new hire retention by 35% year-over-year.
• Authored a company-wide employee handbook tailored for both seasonal and year-round employees, with specific sections addressing CDL driver responsibilities and compliance.
• Developed and rolled out a 360-degree performance review system, improving leadership engagement and peer accountability.

• Advised organizations on HR compliance, policy creation, and employee relations, helping businesses maintain legal integrity and foster positive work environments.
• Supported clients with recruitment strategies, onboarding frameworks, and training programs, tailoring initiatives to align with workforce needs and company culture.
• Led the development of HR infrastructure, including benefits administration processes, employee handbooks, and performance management systems.
• Directed office management setup, organizational design, and internal workflow systems; created org charts, defined departmental roles, and developed SOPs to streamline operations and enhance cross-functional clarity.

• Served as the primary HR contact for employees and managers, leading a team of 5 HR staff.
• Developed onboarding and performance evaluation programs, boosting retention and employee growth.
• Managed training initiatives including workplace safety, HIPAA, compliance, and diversity.
• Led employee relations, investigations, and performance management to maintain a positive work environment.
• Oversaw benefits administration (FMLA, Disability, COBRA, Workers’ Comp) and open enrollment.
• Directed full-cycle recruitment, from job posting through onboarding.
• Ensured compliance with labor laws, supported culture initiatives, and managed unemployment claims.