Human Resources Director

Human Resources Director

Salary Range: Based on experience and education

Terms: Full-time, Administrative Position

Job Purpose

The Human Resources Director is responsible for the overall administration, coordination, and evaluation of the Human Resources function for Portage Township Schools (PTS). This role ensures compliance with state and federal employment laws, provides strategic HR support, and fosters a positive and efficient work environment.

Job Goals

• Establish clear processes and structure within the HR function to support the district’s growth.
• Provide support to district administrators through HR policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Assist and support district staff in areas including benefits, professional guidance, and compliance.

About Portage Township Schools

Portage Township Schools is a forward-thinking district dedicated to:

• Enhancing student achievement through continuous improvement.
• Equipping students with 21st-century skills and global connections.
• Encouraging collaboration in a rigorous and personalized educational setting.
• Fostering communication, leadership, and employability skills for student success.

Expectations of Employee

• Adhere to District policies and procedures.
• Serve as a role model within and outside Portage Township Schools.
• Perform duties efficiently and professionally.
• Maintain a positive and respectful attitude.
• Communicate regularly with the Superintendent regarding HR matters.
• Demonstrate strong time management and prioritization skills.
• Report to work punctually and prepared to perform duties.
• Meet PTS central office productivity standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

HR Leadership & Compliance 

• Chairperson of the District Insurance and Benefits Committee and Safety Committee.
• Oversees the PTS hiring process and employee evaluation system.
• Develops and maintains job descriptions and identifies essential functions.
• Determines eligibility for all benefit programs.
• Ensures compliance and administration of the district INPRS program.
• Maintains regionally competitive compensation and benefits in alignment with PTS' mission.
• Responsible for state and federal HR reporting through systems such as Indiana Gateway.
• Serves on the PTS bargaining team, handling CBA interpretation and maintenance.
• Reviews and coordinates employee reprimands, discipline, discharge, contract non-renewals, layoffs, and reductions in force.
• Collaborates with legal counsel on lawsuits, compliance issues, and legal matters.
• Interprets and applies federal and state laws/regulations related to personnel management.
• Annually reviews and makes recommendations for improvement of district policies, procedures, and personnel practices.
• Consults with the Superintendent and School Board on wage and salary programs.
• Conducts exit interviews to evaluate reasons for employee separation.
• Leads negotiations and personnel investigations as needed.

Benefits Administration

• Manages insurance enrollment for new hires and annual open enrollment through an electronic benefits platform.
• Ensures timely processing of employee benefit changes and communicates updates.
• Prepares payroll notes for new enrollments and changes.
• Responds to insurance-related inquiries and assists with complex claims.
• Advises employees on various leave types and their impact on insurance.
• Oversees short- and long-term disability claims, assisting staff and providers as needed.
• Monitors staff work hours to confirm benefit eligibility and calculates insurance billing for unpaid leave.
• Assists staff with retirement options, eligibility, and related processes.
• Reconciles benefit-related invoices and bills on a monthly basis.
• Administers retiree insurance benefits.
• Manages VEBA, 457, 401(a), and other deferred compensation plans.
• Coordinates with insurance providers and brokers on annual renewals.
• Oversees the district’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Regulatory Compliance & Reporting

• Ensures adherence to HIPAA privacy rules and maintains business associate agreements.
• Oversees FMLA administration, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and the Professional Agreement.
• Manages COBRA administration.
• Administers the Section 125 program, including annual election forms and flex account agreements.
• Maintains confidential medical records per regulatory standards.
• Sends out all required annual notices.
• Submits all ACA government filings and ensures day-to-day compliance.

Workers’ Compensation, Unemployment, and Claims Management

• Handle workers' compensation claims—making sure our team is well taken care of.
• File initial workers’ compensation reports and manage claims through resolution, ensuring employees receive proper care and support.
• Work closely with insurance providers and claims agents to optimize treatment plans and minimize disruptions.
• Oversee our return-to-work program, helping employees transition back smoothly after workplace injuries.
• Recommend safety training initiatives to proactively reduce workplace incidents.
• Process and respond to unemployment claims, ensuring compliance with state regulations and accurate documentation.
• Collaborate with legal counsel on disputed unemployment claims, providing necessary documentation and representation as needed.

Additional HR Responsibilities

• Monitors and oversees PTS employee clinic relationships.
• Implements the personal leave request procedure for days adjacent to school breaks and holidays, ensuring compliance with the Professional Agreement and PTS handbook.
• Continuously evaluates and refines HR processes for improved efficiency.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Master’s degree in Human Resources or related field preferred (Bachelor’s degree required).
• 5–7 years of HR experience required.
• SHRM certification required.
• IASBO HR certification (or willingness to obtain) required.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices.
• Ability to analyze legal documents, policies, and industry trends.
• Effective public speaking and communication skills.
• Proficiency in HR technology systems, payroll software, and data analysis tools.
• Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution abilities.
• Leadership in managing reductions in force, employee relations, and compliance issues.