Human Resources Specialist

Human Resources Specialist

Anticipated starting salary is between $74,760 - $90,552 depending on qualifications. The Human Resources Specialist provides confidential professional and administrative support across HR functions, with primary responsibility for assigned recruitment, HRIS data administration, employee onboarding, benefits support, and records management. The position serves as a key contact for employees, applicants, and external stakeholders, delivering efficient, customer-focused HR services. The HR Specialist also supports labor relations activities, public records requests, departmental administration, and administrative support for the CHRO and HR team.

The Human Resources Specialist coordinates assigned recruitment activities for entry-level, seasonal, and other positions. Prepares and posts job announcements, monitors applicant activity, reviews applications for minimum qualifications, and supports candidate screening. Schedules interviews, background checks, and pre-employment requirements; maintains candidate communications throughout the hiring process. Attends career fairs, supports recruitment and onboarding activities with leadership and HR staff, assists with Human Resources Business Partner recruitments as assigned, and provides backup support during absences.

Enters, maintains, and audits employee information in the HRIS. Processes personnel transactions such as new hires, transfers, promotions, compensation changes, and separations. Ensures HR data is accurate, complete, and maintained in accordance with recordkeeping requirements; generates standard reports and assists with data collection and analysis. Supports employee benefits administration, including the annual benefits fair and open enrollment. Processes benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations as assigned; maintains accurate benefits data and supporting documentation. Responds to routine employee questions about benefit plans, eligibility, enrollment, and procedures, and coordinates benefits-related communications among employees, benefit providers, and HR staff.

Coordinates and facilitates new employee orientation programs. Prepares onboarding materials and ensures completion of required employment documentation. Provides information regarding internal policies and procedures, benefits and workplace expectations. Coordinates onboarding activities with hiring managers, HR staff, and department representatives.

Provides confidential administrative assistance and support on personnel, collective bargaining, and labor relations matters to HR staff as assigned. Attends Labor Relations Committee and collective bargaining meetings; takes notes, prepares meeting materials, distributes documentation, and calendar grievance-related activities. Assists with confidential special projects, reports, presentations, and departmental initiatives.

Serves as the HR department records administrator by maintaining personnel files and HR records in accordance with retention schedules, legal requirements, and organizational policies. Coordinates and responds to public records requests involving HR records, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and procedures. Supports records retention, archiving, and disposition activities while maintaining the confidentiality and security of sensitive employee information.

Provides general administrative support for the department. Orders and maintains supplies and equipment; collects, tracks, and compiles budget information and supporting documentation; and receives, distributes, and processes department mail and correspondence. Maintains department forms, processes, and templates in digital and paper formats. Assists with planning and coordinating department events and activities.

This individual must demonstrate a caring customer service attitude, a strong commitment to operational excellence, and dedication to the organization's core values: Integrity & Transparency; Excellence; Adaptability; Stewardship; Teamwork & Partnerships; and Health & Safety. The Port seeks candidates who will embrace and model these values both internally and externally, and who understand what it means to carry out these values in their everyday work. We value individuals who also bring an impeccable work ethic, honesty, and integrity, and who consistently exhibit enthusiasm, energy, and a drive to succeed.

In accordance with the Immigration Control and Reform Act of 1986, all persons offered employment must provide acceptable proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States. Proof will be required prior to employment.

Candidate must be able to successfully complete a background investigation. Candidate must also be able to obtain/maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), which is a program managed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Information on this program can be viewed here.

Unless altered by an applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement or by a written employment agreement signed by an employee and the Executive Director, the conditions of employment for this position are 'at-will', which means that either the Port or an employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason not prohibited by law. No supervisor, manager, or director of the Port, other than Executive Director, has the authority to alter these employment conditions.

THE PORT OF TACOMA IS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING A WORKPLACE THAT IS FREE FROM ILLEGAL DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT. WE ADHERE TO ALL APPLICABLE STATE AND FEDERAL ANTI-DISCRIMINATION LAWS.

As an employer of choice, the Port is proud to offer an excellent benefits package. This includes medical, prescription, vision and dental with no out-of-pocket premiums and full coverage for employee, spouse, and all eligible dependents. In addition, the Port offers vacation, paid holidays, sick leave, bereavement leave, paid parental leave, participation in the Washington State Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) and a Port-funded Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA) account for out-of-pocket health related expenses for employees and their eligible dependents. The Port's benefits package is valued between 45%-55% of base salary.