HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST - TALENT ACQUISITION AND COMPENSATION

Human Resources Specialist is a professional classification responsible for performing entry-level professional tasks within a human resources discipline. Under general supervision, incumbents perform tasks involving recruitment, selection, classification, compensation, benefits, risk management, labor relations, human resources information systems, payroll processing and/or assist higher-level human resources staff in the daily operation of a human resources office, and provide advice and information to department managers.

Incumbents are expected to gain experience and demonstrate proficiency, which qualifies them to promote to the higher-level classifications within the Human Resources department. Human Resources Specialists allocated in a County perform a wide range of human resources functions.

Human Resources Specialists are privy to highly confidential and sensitive information regarding decision making processes affecting recruitment and selection, classification, compensation, benefits, risk management, labor relations, payroll processing and employment transactions.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

The examples of essential functions listed in this class specification are representative but not necessarily exhaustive or descriptive of any one position in the class. Management is not precluded from assigning other related functions not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment for the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.

Essential Functions:

• Acts as a liaison with a variety of County departments and outside agencies on human resources related matters.
• Reads and interprets Civil Service rules, laws and regulations, Administrative Code, Memorandum of Agreements, Compensation Ordinance, and related reference materials.
• Assists in investigations, gathering data and report preparation on proposed disciplinary actions and employee grievances.
• Provides advice, direction and information on a variety of human resources related matters.
• Participates in recruitment and selection programs. Performs a variety of recruitment efforts such as creating job postings and evaluation mechanisms, reviewing applications, processing and reviewing employment lists, and advising on the selection and placement of employees.
• Conducts classification and compensation studies.
• Enters and processes human resources related transactions and information into applicant and employee tracking systems.
• Coordinates and administers a variety of insurance and benefits plans for County employees and their dependents.
• Monitors and reconciles employee accounts.
• Reviews, approves, and performs final calculations and on-line entry of County payroll actions, including general deductions, taxes, court-ordered garnishments, leaves, and other payroll adjustments.
• Performs quality control and maintenance duties of human resources system.
• Prepares and presents on human resources related training topics.
• Performs information gathering, research, analysis, and report generation on human resources related topics.
• May update policies and procedures, desk and training manuals.
• Assists and answers human resources related questions from County departments, employees and the public.
• Composes and types letters and memos on human resources matters.
• Assists and provides information to staff.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

• Public human resources administration methods, techniques and related terminology
• Data collection and statistical methodology
• Theories, principles, and functions on matters of human resources administration
• County of Benton governmental organization and Department of Human Resources policies, procedures, and operations
• County of Benton Civil Service Rules and regulations, Compensation Ordinance
• County customer service objectives and strategies
• Telephone, office, and online etiquette
• Current technology and trends in the profession
• Validation and test development principles
• Recruitment strategies and methods
• Staffing patterns and organizational structures common to public sector agencies
• Federal, state, and local legislation/laws relevant to benefits administration
• Principles of organization and management
• Communication techniques for gathering, evaluating and transmitting information
• Basic methods of dispute resolution

Skills and Abilities to:

• Maintain confidentiality
• Collect and analyze facts and information
• Understand, interpret and follow laws, ordinances, regulations and procedures
• Write various types of reports, plans and instructions
• Produce work products using computerized equipment and records
• Evaluate quantitative and qualitative information
• Prepare recommendations and design plans for studies
• Communicate effectively in oral and written form
• Prepare and interpret organizational data
• Manage a caseload and respond to requests in a timely manner
• Negotiate solutions to personnel problems/issues
• Enter and retrieve data from a computerized record keeping system
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of staff and the public
• Communicate effectively with a variety of individuals representing diverse cultures and backgrounds and function calmly in challenging situations, which require a high degree of sensitivity, tact and diplomacy
• Treat County employees, representatives of outside agencies and members of the public with courtesy and respect
• Provide prompt, efficient and responsive service
• Exercise appropriate judgment in answering questions and releasing information; analyze and project consequences of decisions and/or recommendations

Desirable Traits

Communicates Effectively, Knowledge Worker, Customer Focused, Values and Respects Others, Drives to Excel, Teamwork and Collaboration, Continuous Learning, Demonstrates Ethical Behavior, Supportive of Change

Education and/or Experience

Education, training, and/or experience that demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills and abilities listed above. Examples of qualifying education/experience:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited U. S. college or university or a certified foreign studies equivalency; OR,
• Two (2) years of human resources experience.

Notes: Education and work experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

REQUIRED LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS OR REGISTRATIONS

License

A valid Arkansas driver's license, which must be maintained throughout employment in this class, is required at time of appointment, or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel. Employees in this class may be required to use their own vehicle.

Certification/Registration

None Required.

SPECIAL NOTES

Working Conditions

Office environment; exposure to computer screens.

Essential Physical Characteristics

The physical characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this classification. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.

Continuous: upward and downward flexion of the neck. Frequent: sitting, repetitive use of hands to operate computers, printers and copiers; bending and stooping; twisting of waist, side-to-side turning of neck; fine finger dexterity to operate keyboards and writing materials. Occasional: walking, reaching above and below shoulder level, and lifting and carrying files weighing up to 10 pounds.

Background Investigation
Must have a reputation for honesty and trustworthiness. Misdemeanor and/or felony convictions may be disqualifying depending on type, number, severity, and recency. Prior to appointment, candidates will be subject to a background investigation.