Human Resources Program Specialist

Job Summary The Human Resources Program Specialist provides operational, administrative, and programmatic support for key Human Resources initiatives and services across the University. The position serves as a lead coordinator for the University's Return to Office (RTO) initiatives, including the development, implementation, and ongoing administration of RTO processes related to the design and coordination of the exemption request processes. In addition to its primary RTO responsibilities, the Program Specialist provides backup support in other areas of UHRM operations, including unemployment insurance verification requests, the University's employee service award program, and other UHRM strategic projects and senior leadership priorities as assigned. The position serves as a central coordination point for program administration, documentation management, stakeholder communication, reporting, and project execution. The Program Specialist works collaboratively with HR leaders, University departments, and external partners to ensure efficient operations, compliance, and exceptional customer service as needed. Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu Responsibilities Coordinate and administer the University's Return to Office (RTO) exemption request process, including reviewing requests for completeness, ensuring required documentation is submitted, and facilitating approvals with employees, departments, HR partners, and university leadership. Maintain accurate records and program tracking, including exemption requests, approvals, denials, expiration dates, and supporting documentation, while ensuring compliance with university policies, procedures, and UHRM protocols. Serve as the primary point of contact for the RTO exemption program, communicating request statuses and decisions, preparing reports and analyses, and supporting ongoing process improvements, communications, and implementation efforts related to Return to Office initiatives. Provide backup support for the University's unemployment insurance verification process, including researching employment, earnings, and separation records; collaborating with departments and HR stakeholders to obtain necessary information; and preparing accurate, timely responses to state agencies. Support compliance and records management for unemployment claims, including monitoring reporting deadlines, maintaining claim documentation and agency correspondence, and ensuring adherence to applicable regulations and university procedures. Provide back-up support for the University's employee service award and recognition program, including determining eligibility, verifying service milestones, managing award procurement and distribution, and facilitating recognition communications and related program activities. Support program records and enhance employee recognition efforts, including tracking service award data, preparing reports, partnering with departments and stakeholders, and recommending and implementing process improvements to strengthen program effectiveness and employee engagement. Provide project, administrative, and operational backup support to senior leadership such as coordinating meetings, communications, special projects, preparation of presentation materials, calendaring, and all other organizational initiatives as assigned. Support the implementation and administration of HR programs and initiatives by conducting research, preparing reports and materials, coordinating communications, and monitoring project deliverables and action items as assigned. Maintain records, reports, and program documentation in accordance with university and UHRM standards, including supporting compliance activities, audits, and the handling of confidential information. Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Ability to coordinate complex processes involving multiple stakeholders.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, and program guidelines.Excellent customer service and relationship-building skills.Strong analytical, reporting, and problem-solving abilities.Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.Ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic environment.Proficiency in preparing professional reports, presentations, and communications. Minimum Qualifications EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience). Program Specialists, II: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 4 years or a master's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience. Professional experience in program administration, project coordination, human resources operations, business operations, or related work.Experience coordinating multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and database or information management systems.Demonstrated ability to manage sensitive and confidential information. Preferences Experience administering employee programs, operational processes, or university-wide initiatives.Experience coordinating exemption requests, accommodations, remote work programs, or policy-related review processes.Experience managing unemployment claims, employment verification requests, or compliance-related documentation.Experience supporting executive leadership or senior administrators.Experience in higher education, healthcare, or public-sector environments.Project management or process improvement experience. SHRM-CP, PHR, or related professional certification. Special Instructions Requisition Number: PRN46514B Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Work Schedule Summary: 3 days in office Department: 00410 - Human Resources Location: Campus Pay Rate Range: $52,000-$58,000 Close Date: 10/30/2026 Open Until Filled To apply, visit <a href=""https://apptrkr.com/9904351"">https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/211026 Copyright ©2025 Jobelephant.com Inc. All rights reserved. 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