Human Resources Specialist

Human Resources Specialist

The Human Resources (HR) Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of employee personnel information in the Human Resources Information System (HRIS) and other systems supported by the HR team. This position requires a high level of problem-solving ability, self-initiative, data accuracy, and attention to detail. This position contributes to the fast-paced daily operation of the County Administrator's Office by professionally greeting, assisting, and directing inquiries to appropriate individuals. The HR Specialist provides necessary support from basic clerical needs to detailed reports for the office.

Experience with payroll and benefits processing/administration is a plus, however - we will train the right candidate.

Anticipated hiring range is: $23.85 - $29.81 per hour plus a generous benefits package.

Essential functions include:

1. Performs a variety of responsible and confidential human resources management tasks.
2. Provides accurate and timely responses to inquiries from employees and management.
3. Administration of the payroll process; verify and troubleshoot timecards, ensure accuracy and timeliness of payroll functions.
4. Updates HRIS and payroll systems for new employees, personnel leaving employment, and employee records such as salary, deductions, direct deposit information, address, exemptions, position title, etc.
5. Tracks usage of overtime by department for accurate budgeting purposes.
6. Processes income withholding orders and garnishments when received.
7. Tracks health insurance discount forms for employee premiums.
8. Assists KPERS Designated Agent; serve as KPERS authorized personnel.
9. Maintains the USDOT CDL Clearinghouse information and runs reports as required.
10. Processes Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) requests. Ensures proper communication and documentation and tracks FMLA hours.
11. Transitions employee paper files to electronic files once employees leave employment.
12. Provides monthly reports for employee newsletter and service awards.
13. Reliable and dependable attendance mandatory.
14. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and be able to operate legally a motor vehicle. Position requires a clean driving record.

Marginal functions include:

1. Assists with benefits communication when advised.
2. Processes benefit changes (qualifying life events, etc.).
3. Maintains personnel files as directed.
4. Updates and edits the County Policy Manual as directed.
5. Prepares, reviews, edits and distributes packets for newly hired employees
6. Performs other duties as assigned by HR Director and/or County Administrator

The County Administration Office is responsible for, among other things, general county operations, cash and debit management, investments, special assessments, property and risk management, utility billing, general public transportation, employee benefits & payroll, and the annual County operating budget. Challenges of this position are working in a busy environment with numerous interruptions throughout the day and the ability to prioritize and complete daily tasks, using effective time management skills. Additional challenges are maintaining pleasant business relations while having extensive contact by phone and in person.

Education and experience: Bachelor's degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field from an accredited college is preferred. One to three years' experience and/or training or equivalent combination of education and experience. Ability to learn or knowledge of payroll software programs preferred. Must be able to pass pre-employment and background checks related to the position.

Knowledge, skill and ability:

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, HRIS system data entry. Preferred experience with Paylocity.
• Ability to establish and maintain complex office records and files, interpret rules and regulations and to apply them to work situations.
• Excellent business skills including written and oral communication and interpersonal skills.
• Possess the skills required to perform the job and understand the job functions and its requirement to meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of payroll and accounting processes and procedures.
• Skills in organization, mathematical processes and procedures.
• Ability to deal with sensitive information in a discreet manner and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to analyze data and determine course of action to resolve any discrepancies.
• Ability to be effective, efficient, and courteous while interacting with people seeking assistance.
• Ability to utilize various computer systems and programs properly.
• Ability to prioritize all tasks, deploy time management skills, and correctly complete a task in a timely fashion; seek assistance when needed.

Supervision/accountability:

• Works under direct supervision. This position does not directly supervise others.
• Maintains continuing education to ensure knowledge and understanding of current payroll processes.

Personal relations:

Personal contacts are with County Administration office staff, department heads, employees and the general public daily. May also interact with representatives of local, county, and state government, and private organizations.

Working conditions and physical requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, and must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret the most complex documents including policies, compliance documents, laws and regulations, and other directives. Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints. Ability to read, write, and interpret written and verbal communication by email, phone, and in-person effectively.

Benefits offered by Pottawatomie County:

• Generous Paid Time Off starting at 7 hours per pay period
• Yearly stipend to purchase Pottawatomie County branded work attire
• After 1-year of successful employment the county offers a $120 monthly contribution match to a Voya account on your behalf
• Yearly raises with acceptable annual performance review
• Cost of Living raises if/as voted on each year by the Board of County Commissioners
• Free rental of the Sunflower Room in Westmoreland for events
• Use of the county landfill twice per year for free
• Employee Assistance Program
• Educational Assistance Program
• KPERS/KP&F retirement
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Optional Group Life, and many other optional benefits available to employee
• 11 Paid Holidays

An offer for employment for this position is contingent upon the applicant passing pre-employment background checks which may include, but are not necessarily limited to: Drug Screening, Driving Record, Criminal History, Physical Capacity, and/or Skills Testing.