Human Resources Specialist

Position is responsible for supporting the daily operations of the Human Resources department and serves as a key point of contact for employees and supervisors. This role is responsible for assisting with recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, benefits and leave administration, HR compliance, HRIS data accuracy, and maintaining confidential employee records. Ensure consistent HR processes, timely support, and a positive workplace culture. Distinguishing Characteristics Inspire Development Centers provides early Childhood Education (ECE) and social services to approximately 3,000 children in a center-based and home-based setting, at more than 25 Child Development Centers (CDC) throughout the State of Washington. At these sites, Inspire employs approximately 900 staff on a $60 million annual budget. Inspire provides these services under various federal and state funded programs with differing regulations and stipulations, which must be coordinated and adhered to, including, but not limited to: Regional Head Start (RHS), Regional Early Head Start (REHS), Migrant Seasonal Head Start (MSHS), and the State of Washington's Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP). The organization is required to meet an annual quota of non-federal share (in-kind) funds. A large majority of children's first language is Spanish. Over the past 40 years, Inspire has strategically and incrementally increased its capacity to address the rapidly changing needs of its families and communities. Supervisory and Other Relationships The Human Resource Specialist reports to the Human Resources Manager. Although supervision is not a regular part of the job, incumbent may provide training and instruction to HR staff, employees and supervisors. Examples of Essential Duties and Responsibilities The following examples of duties and accountabilities illustrate the general range of tasks assigned to the position but are not intended to define the limits of required duties. Other essential duties may be assigned consistent with the general scope of the position. Recruitment & Hiring Support Coordinate job postings, applicant tracking, candidate communications, assist with resume screening and interview scheduling Support pre-employment processes, including background checks and employment documentation Partner with hiring managers to ensure timely hiring processes Assist with new hire onboarding and orientation activities Employee Relations Respond to employee questions and workplace concerns Assist with documentation related to performance, attendance, and conduct Support investigations and follow-up actions as needed Promote a respectful and inclusive workplace environment Provide guidance on HR policies, procedures, and programs Process employee separations and conduct exit procedures Benefits & Leave Administration Assist employees with benefit enrollment and changes Respond to benefits-related questions and troubleshoot issues Support administration of leaves of absence and required documentation Assist with open enrollment coordination Compliance Support compliance with employment laws and organizational policies Maintain required documentation (e.g., I-9 forms, personnel records) Assist with internal audits and reporting requirements Ensure confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive information Reporting & Projects Generate standard HR reports (headcount, turnover, etc.) Assist with HR projects, process improvements, and system updates Identify opportunities to improve HR processes and efficiency Minimum Qualifications Incumbents are required to have demonstrated knowledge and abilities in these areas: Associate degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field and minimum three (3) years of experience in human resources or an administrative role supporting HR functions; or Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job (*) Knowledge of worker's compensation regulations and processes; Knowledge of leave regulations (FMLA, ADA, etc.) Knowledge of employment law. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; Ability to communicate in writing clearly and concisely. Utilizes good judgment to determine when to consult with higher-level HR management on problems or issues; Ability to utilize relevant HR technology systems for administrative, service and reporting needs; Ability to learn new tasks quickly and efficiently; Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines; Ability to gather and analyze data for reports via multiple modes; Ability to read, write and interpret documentation; Strong customer service focus; Demonstrates general knowledge of cultural differences, respects differences and promotes inclusion, and apply the organization's philosophy toward diversity; Interpersonal - Ability to get along well with a variety of personalities and individuals. Proficiency with personal computer, including Microsoft Office; and Accurate data management, documentation, and recordkeeping skills. Demonstrates flexibility, adaptability and initiative; Honesty / Integrity - Ability to be truthful and be seen as credible in the workplace. Working Under Pressure - Ability to complete assigned tasks under stressful situations. Business Acumen - Ability to grasp and understand business concepts and issues. Active Listening - Ability to actively attend to, convey, and understand the comments and questions of others. These skills and abilities are typically acquired through (*) a combination of education, experience and training. This combination will provide the competence to perform the work of the position. Preferred Qualifications Previous Head Start experience. English/Spanish bi-lingual fluency. PHR / SPHR. Position Requirements Incumbents are required to have the following: Valid Washington State driver's license; Must maintain acceptable driving history; Ability to travel to perform job duties and responsibilities; Must pass initial and periodic criminal and background check; Must pass initial and periodic employee health clearance; (present it within forty-five (45) days of employment); Subject to initial and periodic TB screen; MMR immunization record or proof of immunity; Subject to drug and/or alcohol testing per IDC Drug and Alcohol policy; Must complete any/all required training related to the position; Must sign a Confidentiality Agreement; and Must complete and sign a Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement on an annual basis. Benefits Information A summary of benefits associated with this position can be found at . Temporary employees are not eligible for benefits. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.