At GEAR AID, we champion renewal in all things that we do in the places where we live, work and play. With our values of championing renewal, seeking unsolved problems, caring for gear and having fun—we see a world where people are empowered to buy less, make their gear last longer, and find connection in the outdoors. Founded in 1981 with a small line of repair adhesives, divers realized our products were stronger than wetsuits. Shortly after, we expanded to include more adhesives, sealants, repair tapes, water repellents, cleaners plus an expansive adventure tool line. With more than 100 products that share the same tenacity, quality and utility, people rely on us for products that last. Because we believe gear should last. For anyone who enjoys playing or working in the outdoors, GEAR AID designs essential camp tools and effective products that fix and restore gear. Whether you're climbing a mountain, diving the deep blue sea, fishing in the rain, or camping, we make tools for any adventure.
OUR TEAM
Serving the full spectrum of outdoor enthusiasts, we are leaders of care and repair products supported by a small, but passionate team. We're looking for team members who are adaptable, self-motivated and creative. To attract the best and brightest, we are committed to providing opportunities, training and a full benefits package. We're proud of our commitment to our employees, our community and our environment and welcome you to submit your application to join the GEAR AID team.
Available Opportunities
For information on career opportunities at Gear Aid, email us at jobs@gearaid.com.
Full Time, On-Site
Manufacturing, Whatcom County
Salary Range: $60,000-$80,000 Annually
We champion renewal in all things we do in the places we live, work and play. With our values of championing renewal, seeking unsolved problems, caring for gear and having fun—we see a world where people are empowered to buy less, make their gear last longer, and find connection in the outdoors.
Serving the full spectrum of outdoor enthusiasts, we are leaders of care and repair products supported by a small, but passionate team.
We're looking for a team member who is adaptable, self-motivated and creative to join our administrative group. We are committed to providing opportunities, training and a full benefits package.
If you are looking for an opportunity to support adventure and sustainability, we look forward to hearing from you.
Position Summary
The Payroll & HR Specialist manages payroll processing, benefits administration, employee records, recruitment, onboarding, compliance, and daily support for our local manufacturing team.
This role partners with company leadership to ensure the workplace remains fair, welcoming, compliant, and growth-focused, serving as a champion for both operational excellence and inclusive culture.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Process biweekly payroll, verifying accuracy of timekeeping and deductions
- Administer employee benefits including wellness, retirement, and insurance programs
- Maintain HR documentation and confidential employee records in compliance with laws and company policy
- Coordinate recruitment, job postings, candidate screening, and interview logistics
- Organize onboarding and orientation activities for new hires
- Respond to employee and manager HR/payroll inquiries with professionalism and care
- Assist with employee relations, coaching, and support for workplace issues
- Update and maintain Employee Handbook and company policies
- Track and plan employee training, certifications, and recognition programs
- Represent administration/management on the Safety Committee, monitor incident reporting
- Remain current on HR laws, recommending policy updates as needed
- Support special projects, company events, and community involvement as assigned
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred (relevant experience will be considered)
- 3 years Payroll experience, ideally in WA state. In manufacturing or a small business setting
- 2 years HR experience in a manufacturing or production environment
- Knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll and employment laws
- Familiarity with payroll and HRIS/HRMS software, ADP experience strongly preferred
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Organized, dependable, detail-oriented, and able to multitask
- Demonstrated ability to handle confidential information
Physical Requirements
- Able to sit at a desk, use a computer for extended periods
- Occasionally lift up to 20 pounds
- Ability to spend time in production environments
- Some local travel for events or training may be required
Work Environment
- Collaborative small team; mix of office and shop floor interaction
- Community-focused, supportive culture; office based in Bellingham, WA
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary, paid holidays, PTO, health/dental/vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan
- Opportunities for professional development
- Flexible scheduling and employee-focused atmosphere
ADA Statement
Gear Aid is committed to the principles of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities, as required by law. If you require accommodation during the application or recruitment process, please contact our HR department.
EEO Statement
Gear Aid provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
GEAR AID is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.