Human Resources Assistant (Employee Benefits) - HR Navigator

Human Resources Assistant (HR Navigator)

The Human Resources (HR) Navigator serves three primary functions: (1) as a centralized onboarding and workforce navigation resource within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA); (2) providing Tier 1 HR support to current employees, connecting customers with appropriate HR teams responsive to customers' queries; and (3) providing education, researching and correction of discrepancies, and full range assistant level support for benefits and leave programs across the facility. The role ensures timely hiring, regulatory compliance, workforce readiness, benefits enrollment education, HR system data accuracy and positive employee experiences for the on-site workforce it serves.

Major duties include, but are not limited to the following:

Onboarding and Pre-Employment Coordination

• Serves as the primary point of contact for selectees from tentative job offer through Entry on Duty (EOD).
• Coordinates pre-employment steps with new hires.
• Helps new employees submit required forms and completes pre-hire checks.
• Supports scheduling and communication throughout the onboarding process.
• Monitors and tracks onboarding progress, identifies delays, and ensures timely completion of requirements.
• Supports the completion of pre-employment requirements such as background checks, fingerprinting, physical exams, drug testing, and driving record reviews, and helps new hires finish any additional steps needed before starting work.

Employee HR Support & Customer Service

• Conducts New Employee In-Processing and prepares first-day documentation.
• Serves as an on-site HR customer support representative handling inquiries via walk-in, phone, email, and ticketing systems.
• Provides assistance with pay processes, payroll briefings, tax withholding, and direct deposit.
• Reviews employee records, identifies discrepancies, and gathers information for resolution.
• Provides assistance to employees regarding HR-related questions and processes.
• Helps resolve basic HR issues and directs employees to the correct resources.
• Submits and tracks payroll service requests.
• Screens and resolves routine HR inquiries and refers complex issues to HR Specialists.

Benefits Program Support

• Provides guidance and support to employees on their federal benefit programs, including health insurance, life insurance, dental and vision coverage, retirement savings plans, childcare assistance, and transit benefits.
• Meets with employees to explain benefits options and provide individualized guidance.
• Conducts new hire benefits enrollment, reviews forms for accuracy, and uploads required documentation.
• Supports Open Season communications and enrollment activities.
• Assists employees with benefits-related changes tied to qualifying life events.

HR Systems Processing

• Uploads and verifies documentation in HR systems and the electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF).
• Uses HR systems to submit tickets, process benefits updates, and maintain HR data accuracy.
• Ensures records and documentation meet compliance requirements.

Promotion Potential:

The selectee may be promoted to the full performance level without further competition when all regulatory, qualification, and performance requirements are met. Selection at a lower grade level does not guarantee promotion to the full performance level.

Work Schedule:

Monday - Friday, Administrative Hours (To be discussed during interviews.)

Telework:

This position may be authorized for ad-hoc telework. Telework eligibility will be discussed during the interview process.

Virtual:

This is not a virtual position.

Position Description/PD#: Human Resources Assistant (Employee Benefits) - HR Navigator/ PD99237-S and PD99238-S

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized

Critical Skills Incentive (CSI): Not approved

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized

The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran. This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community. This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.