Human Resources Specialist

The Human Resources Specialist provides guidance, support, and coordination in consistently and effectively applying the human resources (HR) department's policies, procedures, and practices. This position performs routine, complex, and technical duties in various functional areas, including payroll, employee benefits, recruiting, records management, and new hire orientation. It also serves as the first point of contact for employees and the general public and performs clerical and administrative duties to contribute to efficient office operations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB

• Assists the public, employees, managers, and vendors by phone, correspondence, or in-person regarding HR processes, policies, and related procedures, referring to the appropriate HR staff member as needed;
• Assist in performing routine tasks required to administer and execute human resource programs including but not limited to payroll, compensation, benefits, and leave; disciplinary matters; disputes and investigations; performance and talent management; productivity, recognition, and morale; and training and development;
• Assist in handling employment-related inquiries from applicants, employees, and supervisors, referring complex and/or sensitive matters to the appropriate staff;
• Assist in reviewing, tracking and documenting compliance with mandatory and non-mandatory training, continuing education, and work assessments. This may include anti-harassment training, Title VI training, professional licensure, and certifications;
• Assist in implementing employee recognition programs;
• Performs and/or assists in department fiscal functions, including payroll processing, account reconciliations, vendor payments, and cash receipting, ensuring alignment with department goals and objectives and compliance with Blount County standards and practices;
• Ensure compliance with all County policies and local, state, and federal regulations, specifically associated with payroll processing, to ensure accuracy, compliance, and efficiency by working closely with the Central Accounting Department of Blount County;
• Process monthly billings from providers, review billings for accuracy and approve payment promptly, and resolve discrepancies with carriers and payroll;
• Maintains knowledge of trends, best practices, regulatory changes, and new technologies in human resources, talent management, and employment law; and 
• Performs other duties, tasks and special projects as assigned.

It is mandatory for Human Resources Specialists to

• Collaborate effectively within a team environment, actively contributing ideas, and supporting colleagues to achieve shared goals;
• Provide a high level of customer service at all times;
• Exhibit excellent verbal and written communication skills;
• Demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills;
• Willingness to provide backup to payroll, benefits, recruitment, onboarding, etc., and support various Human Resources & Payroll projects;
• Support the principles and methods used and set forth by departmental practices and systems;
• Propensity to work in a dynamic environment that requires adaptation to changing goals, priorities, and needs;
• Preserve a high degree of confidentiality while working with sensitive information;
• Maintain organized working space, projects, and assignments; and Bolster and sustain a professional demeanor with the citizens, colleagues, County employees, department heads, elected officials, vendors, and other agencies, including calm, kind, and effective communications.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK

• Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources preferred;
• Three (3) years of HR experience;
• Or equivalent training, education, and/or experience;
• and Valid driver’s license.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to sit, communicate, reach, and manipulate objects, tools, and/or controls. The position requires mobility. Duties may involve moving materials weighing up to 10 pounds regularly. Manual dexterity and coordination are required over 50% of the work period while operating equipment, such as computer keyboard, mouse, calculator, and similar machines. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Most work is performed in a well-lighted, modern office setting with centrally controlled heating and air conditioning.

BENEFITS

Exceptional full-time benefits include medical, prescription, dental, vision, FSA, HSA, optional USAble, paid holidays, paid sick days, paid vacation, EAP, retirement planning, pension with Tennessee Consolidated Retirement Services, employee clinic, employee discounts, and more.