HR Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:

The HR Specialist is essential for providing administrative support across personnel, risk management, and community engagement while acting as the employee liaison and training compliance officer for the Family YMCA of Marion & Polk Counties. This role supports the Chief People Officer in various HR functions, ensuring smooth HR operations that align with the Y’s mission. The HR Specialist promotes a welcoming environment and ensures adherence to Y policies and regulations.

OUR CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. At The Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are relentless to make our community stronger, beginning with you.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

HUMAN RESOURCES SUPPORT

• Assist with recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and training new employees.
• Manage personnel files, ensuring confidentiality and accuracy.
• Support employee questions regarding HR policies, benefits, and pay.
• Coordinate employee training sessions, including compliance and development programs.
• Ensure smooth system functionality for staff and volunteers across various platforms.
• Provide supervisor setup and training within HRIS.
• Assist with documentation and responses to inquiries including employment verification, unemployment claims,,compliance reports, and other documents as needed.

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT

• Serve as a point of contact for staff regarding administrative questions and policy clarifications.
• Participate in regular HR and finance team meetings to support ongoing projects.
• Assist with special projects directed by the Chief People Officer.

RISK MANAGEMENT

• Ensure employees maintain up-to-date safety certifications and manage compliance records.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

• Support community outreach initiatives and fundraising efforts.
• Promote YMCA's mission and values within the community.

CUSTOMER SERVICE EXPECTATIONS

• Ensure the Y is meeting member and participant needs with good listening, attentiveness, and patience.
• Prioritize staff, members and participants with kindness and compassion.
• Demonstrate the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility in all daily activities.

JOB DUTIES

• Maintain punctual attendance and professionalism while working independently or as part of the team.
• Ensure confidentiality and maintain a positive image when interacting with staff, members, and the public.
• Assist program directors with tasks and follow supervisor’s directions.
• Manage emotions effectively and provide thorough, organized, and timely customer service.
• Oversee HR projects to align with organizational goals and community impact.
• Build relationships and ensure clear communication within the YMCA and with external partners.
• Lead and support change initiatives, considering community and organizational needs.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 2 years of HR and/or compliance experience preferred.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills, with keen attention to detail.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS programs (advanced Excel skills a plus).
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to work well in diverse teams.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, meet deadlines, and adapt to change under pressure.
• Demonstrates integrity, reliability, flexibility, and responsibility.
• Willingness to adhere to organizational policies and procedures.
• CPR/First Aid certification required (or willingness to obtain through work training).

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Frequent sitting, reaching, walking, and occasional lifting of up to 40 lbs.
• Moderate noise level in the work environment.
• Reasonable accommodation may be provided for individuals with disabilities.

SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE

• Adhere to YMCA child abuse prevention policies and reporting.
• Complete background checks (criminal, work, and reference).
• Comply with a drug and alcohol-free workplace policy.

This job description may not be all inclusive and employees are expected to perform all other duties as assigned and directed by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified when deemed appropriate by management. All candidates must have reliable transportation. Job offers are contingent upon the completion of a rigorous background check.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (LEADER)

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fundraising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience.

Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work, and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates and openness to change and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths, and limitations, and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well. Uses best practices and demonstrates up to date knowledge and skills in technology.