Human Resource Specialist

Employee Group: Non-affiliated | School Year: 2026/27 | FLSA status: Exempt, full time

About the role

The Human Resources Specialist will play a key role in supporting retention and development of high-quality staff for a K-12 educational institution. This position focuses on compensation and benefits, compliance with state and federal regulations, and fostering a positive workplace culture that aligns with the institution's mission to provide excellent education to students.

Responsibilities

• Payroll Administration:
  • Track employee changes for step increases, tenure, longevity, stipends, bonuses and any other special payments
  • Prepare personnel transaction forms for changes that affect payroll/benefits and send to business office
  • Maintain and update employee databases and HR systems, ensuring accuracy and accessibility
• Benefits Administration:
  • Administer all employee benefits, including health insurance, workers compensation, retirement plans, employee assistance program and leaves of absence
  • Conduct benefit orientations and ensure employees understand available options
  • Coordinate open enrollment with brokers and recommend timelines and processes for compliance and completion
  • Answer benefit-related questions and troubleshoot/resolve problems
  • Track and process leave requests, certifications, and licensure renewals for district staff
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for employee inquiries regarding benefits and related procedures
  • Audit benefit enrollment, invoices and employee selections for accuracy
• Compliance And Record-Keeping:
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws, including FMLA, ADA, EEO and MDE requirements
  • Maintain accurate employee records, including contracts, certifications and background checks
  • Prepare and submit reports as required by regulatory agencies and district leadership including the REP report
• Special Projects:
  • Collaborate with leadership on HR initiatives, such as organizational restructuring or policy development
  • Lead or assist with special projects to support the institution's strategic goals

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Education Administration, or a related field preferred or equivalent education and experience
• At least three years of payroll and/or benefit administration experience, preferably in education or a nonprofit organization
• MSBO, PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP certification preferred

Skills

• Strong knowledge of HR practices, employment law, and K-12 education operations
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• High proficiency in HR software and Microsoft Office Suite required
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion required
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills required
• Excellent math and Excel/Google sheet skills required
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy required
• Experience with operational efficiency and process improvement preferred

Work Environment

This position is based in an office environment but may require occasional travel to schools within the district.