HR Operations Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

HR Operations Specialist

$56,200-$63,500

Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake
Baltimore, MD (and surrounding service areas)

JOB SUMMARY:

The HR Operations Specialist manages onboarding, HRIS administration, and compliance activities for the Human Resources department, and serves as a go-to resource for managers and employees on HR questions and processes. This role oversees the new hire experience from offer through the first weeks of employment, keeps HR systems and records accurate and organized, supports recruitment for non-retail positions, and helps HR programs run smoothly and in compliance with company policy and applicable law. The HR Operations Specialist also supports broader HR initiatives, including training, employee engagement, and special projects for the HR Operations Manager.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage the onboarding process from offer acceptance through an employee's first weeks, coordinating with candidates, hiring managers, and other departments to ensure a smooth experience
• Monitor GIC's automated HRIS onboarding workflows for new hires, transfers, and status changes, and troubleshoot errors or exceptions as they arise
• Serve as the primary point of contact for onboarding questions, working with HR leadership on more complex or unusual situations
• Enter employee changes and terminations, and maintain accurate HR data in the HRIS, including periodic audits of employee records and correction of errors or inconsistencies
• Maintain GIC's electronic HR files and employment records, following recordkeeping, retention, and confidentiality requirements
• Support HRIS system updates and enhancements, working with IT and the HRIS vendor (ADP Workforce Now) to test changes and roll them out to end users
• Answer manager and employee questions about HR policies, procedures, and systems, and route more complex questions to HR leadership or legal counsel as needed
• Coordinate compliance activities, including I-9 audits and employment verification, and prepare documentation for audits
• Create and maintain onboarding procedures and internal HR process documentation
• Manage the recruitment and hiring process for non-retail staff and oversee the Work Release program, including coordination with partner agencies and resolution of day-to-day issues
• Ensure onboarding compliance for all new hires, and provide onboarding training for new managers
• Represent Human Resources in meetings and projects related to onboarding, HRIS, and HR process improvements
• Train and support managers on onboarding and HRIS procedures
• Support the HR Operations Manager with special projects, audits, and reporting
• Assist in coordinating internal employee engagement activities and events
• Provide general HR and administrative support to the department, and perform other duties as assigned

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• HS Diploma/GED required
• Three to five years of Human Resources experience, including onboarding, HRIS, or compliance work
• Experience with HRIS platforms required; ADP Workforce Now experience strongly preferred

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

• Valid state driver's license
• PHR, SHRM-CP, or similar HR certification preferred, not required

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Working knowledge of HR principles, practices, and employment law fundamentals (e.g., FLSA, FMLA, ADA, I-9/USCIS requirements)
• Good judgment and problem-solving skills, with the ability to handle sensitive situations professionally
• Strong analytical skills and comfort working with HR data, metrics, and reporting
• Advanced proficiency with HRIS platforms, including troubleshooting and auditing employee data; ADP Workforce Now experience strongly preferred
• Ability to coordinate HR system or process changes, including working with IT and outside vendors
• Ability to explain HR policies and procedures clearly to managers and employees
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to train and support other HR staff
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential employee information with discretion and professionalism
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, and Excel
• Ability to work independently and as a collaborative member of a team
• Compassion and respect for individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences, consistent with Goodwill's mission

• Primarily office-based environment with minimal exposure to external conditions
• Light physical activity, including lifting up to 20 pounds and frequent computer use
• May require standing, walking, reaching, and occasional physical movement throughout the day

• Less than 25% travel within Goodwill’s service areas (including Baltimore City and surrounding counties)
• Access to a personal vehicle required
• Occasional planned or unplanned travel

At Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, we are committed to empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities through meaningful work. Join a mission-driven organization where your contributions make a difference every day.

EOE/MFDV

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