SUMMARY: The HR Specialist supports the Human Resources Director in the day-to-day operations of the HR function, with a primary focus on reporting, payroll accuracy, and record-keeping integrity. This role prepares and reviews weekly and monthly HR reports, working closely with the HR Director to identify and resolve discrepancies, troubleshoot payroll-related issues, and maintain accurate, compliant employee records. The HR Specialist also serves as the point of contact for HR matters when the Director is traveling to sites, ensuring continuity of operations and timely responses to employee and management needs. Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, sound judgment in handling sensitive information, and excellent verbal and written communication skills.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Familiar with policies and procedures regarding employee handbook.
• Knowledgeable of the benefit programs. 
• Prepare, compile, and review weekly and monthly HR reports for accuracy and completeness before distribution.
• Partner with the HR Director to identify, research, and resolve data discrepancies across HR and payroll systems.
• Assist in troubleshooting and resolving payroll-related issues, coordinating with payroll, finance, or outside providers as needed.
• Maintain accurate, organized, and compliant employee records, ensuring proper documentation and secure handling of confidential information.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for HR matters and act on behalf of the HR Director during site visits or travel.
• Respond to routine employee and manager inquiries regarding HR policies, payroll, and records.
• Support onboarding, offboarding, and other HR administrative processes as needed.
• Draft clear, professional written communications, memos, and reports on behalf of the department.
• Assist with audits, compliance reviews, and special projects as assigned by the HR Director.
• May be asked to travel to sites or conferences from time to time.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to draft clear, professional correspondence and reports.
• High degree of accuracy and attention to detail, particularly with data and payroll records.
• Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills; able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Sound judgment and problem-solving ability, particularly when acting in the HR Director's absence.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and HRIS/payroll systems.
• Paylocity experience preferred.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: 

• High school diploma / Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• 2 years of experience in Human Resources, payroll, or related administrative role preferred.
• Prior experience supporting reporting or payroll functions preferred.

LANGUAGE SKILLS: 

• Communicate in English verbally and in writing

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: 

• Must be proficient at mathematical and statistical calculations. 

REASONING ABILITY: The employee is expected to handle unique or unexpected situations that may not be addressed by current standards, procedures, or precedents.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, ascend and descend stairs, possess ability to handle, manipulate or touch objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms. 

Employee must frequently be able to lift 25 pounds from the floor to waist level. Specific vision abilities include close vision and the ability to clearly focus vision.