Human Resources (HR) Specialist

Human Resources (HR) Specialist

Ottawa USD 290 www.usd290.org

USD 290 is seeking a highly motivated and personable Human Resources (HR) Specialist to join our dedicated administrative team. Reporting to the Director of Finance, you will be the face of the District for new and current staff, providing comprehensive HR services and benefits administration.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for an individual who embodies dependability and adaptability. In a school district environment, priorities can shift rapidly, and the ability to manage high-priority tasks under pressure is essential. We value a willingness to learn and a drive for process improvement, as you will be expected to exercise creativity and initiative to resolve complex employee issues and enhance orientation and exit procedures. A core focus of this role is building strong employee relationships to ensure a supportive work environment.

Essential Functions

1. Recruitment & Orientation: Develop job announcements, manage online application systems, and conduct engaging new hire orientations.
2. Benefits Administration: Act as the Plan Administrator for the Section 125 Cafeteria Plan and the KPERS Designated Agent, managing enrollments for employee benefit and retirement plans.
3. Compliance & Records: Ensure all personnel files are accurate and confidential while processing salary changes, leaves, and background screenings.
4. Employee Liaison: Serve as a primary contact between employees and benefit providers, ensuring timely and courteous resolution of concerns.
5. Support: Serve as backup for the Payroll Specialsit.

Qualifications

1. Education: High School Diploma/GED required; Bachelor's degree in HR or Management preferred.
2. Experience: 2 years of clerical experience required; 5+ years of progressive HR/benefits experience preferred.
3. Knowledge: Deep understanding of KPERS and other benefits and employment related laws is essential.
4. Skills: Proficiency in HRIS database queries and the ability to obtain a Notary Public license.
5. Preferred Certifications: Professional certifications such as SHRM-CP/SCP, AASPA pHCLE, or PSHRA-CP/SCP are highly desirable.

For more information regarding this position, please contact Finance Director Tracey Moerer at ... .

Benefits Information

KPERS eligible position. District offers health dental vision insurances an Employee Assistance Program, optional 403(b) and 457 plans and other optional insurances. Paid sick, personal, and vacation leave. Allocation of leave will be based on hire date. Click Here to view the District Benefit Page

Salary Information

$15.50 to $19.87 depending on qualifications

Employer Information

The Ottawa School District is comprised of three elementary schools, a middle school, high school and three alternative programs, with a total student population of 2,400. The staff consists of more than 200 certified teachers, 14 administrators and over 150 educational support personnel. Technology is a high priority for the district. Elementary classrooms are equipped with Smartboards; secondary classes have wireless air slates; LCD projectors are available in all classrooms; and an additional 1,153 new computers have been added. Instructional coaches and a mentoring program are additional resources available to ensure that new teachers have the support necessary.

Ottawa is the county seat of Franklin County. It is a community of 13,000, located in northeast Kansas on the I-35 corridor, just 20 miles from Lawrence and 45 miles from Kansas City. Emporia and the Johnson County area are also a short drive away. Ottawa is a growing community with new housing developments that offer numerous new homes. An established industrial park, as well as Wal-Mart and American Eagle distribution centers are also located in Ottawa.

USD 290 provides certified employees with an employer funded 403(b) account. After six years of service to the district, the teacher becomes vested in 10% of the value within his/her employer paid account. The vested portion will continue to increase by 10% until the teacher is 100% vested upon beginning his/her 11th continuous year with USD 290.

Ottawa School District also offers employees health insurance options with a very minimal cost for a single policy. For veteran teachers, years of service in previous districts are honored.