Human Resources Specialist For Staff & Academic Affairs

About Clark University:

Founded in 1887, Clark was one of the first all-graduate institutions in the United States. Today the University is a highly-ranked, student-centered institution educating approximately 2,350 undergraduate and 1,150 graduate students to be imaginative and contributing citizens of the world and to advance the frontiers of knowledge and understanding through rigorous scholarship and creative effort. This commitment to scholarship and inquiry reflects the University's commitment to "challenge convention and change our world" and to address issues of critical importance to society. It is also reflected by Clark's many national and international distinctions, including recognition for its diversity and inclusion efforts, innovation, community engagement and impact, as a top green campus, and for having a distinguished geography and international development program. Clark has also been included in the groundbreaking Colleges that Change Lives guide since it was first published in 1996.

Clark is located in Worcester, Massachusetts, a dynamic, diverse city "on the rise." The second largest city in New England, Worcester is home to 11 institutions of higher learning and is increasingly recognized for its growing healthcare and biotechnology communities, its thriving cultural scene, and as a vibrant food hub.

Job Description:

The HR Specialist for Staff & Academic Affairs position is responsible for aligning business objectives with employees and management on both a strategic and tactical level for university and administrative units. The position formulates partnerships across the HR function to deliver value-added service and support that reflects the business objectives of the institution. The HR Specialist maintains an effective level of business literacy about the business unit's financial position, its mid-range plans, its culture and its competition.

The position supports the Chief Human Resources Officer in handling employee relations; performance management; employee engagement; organization design and development; benefit administration; diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives; policy interpretation and workforce planning activities. This position also assists the Senior Talent Acquisition Leader with recruitment, compensation, and other key HR processes and provides a seamless experience to University employees as it relates to all HR activities. Position also serves as an HR conduit to the Provost's office approximately 25-30% of the time.

• Supervisory Responsibilities:
• This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities but does serve as a coach and mentor for other positions in the department.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conducts regular on-going meetings with respective business units.
• Consults with business unit management, providing HR guidance when appropriate.
• Maintains in-depth knowledge of legal requirements related to day-to-day management of employees, reducing legal risks and ensuring regulatory compliance
• Provides day-to-day performance management guidance to business unit management (e.g., coaching, counseling, career development.
• Works closely with management and employees to improve work relationships, build morale, and increase productivity and retention.
• Provides HR policy guidance and interpretation.
• Assists international employees with related HR matters.
• Identifies training needs for business units and individual professional coaching needs.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Prior experience working with and contributing to a diverse workplace with the ability to interact effectively with a broad range of constituents on campus

Requirements:

Education and Experience:

• Working knowledge of multiple human resource disciplines, including compensation practices, organizational diagnosis, employee and union relations, diversity, performance management, and federal and state respective employment laws.
• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) credential or ability to obtain certification within one year of employment

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to comprehend, interpret, and apply the appropriate sections of applicable laws, guidelines, regulations, ordinances, and policies.
• Ability to acquire a thorough understanding of the university's hierarchy, jobs, qualifications, compensation practices, and the administrative practices related to those factors.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Additional Information:

As of June 1, 2023 Clark University no longer requires employees or students to be vaccinated against COVID-19. However, Clark urges all community members to follow CDC guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination, which recommend that everyone stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including booster doses. This is important for your own personal health as well as the health of our community.

At Clark University, we are dedicated to building a workplace that celebrates diversity and fosters inclusion. We believe that diversity of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds leads to a more innovative and productive work environment. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is reflected in our hiring practices, employee development programs, and campus culture. We welcome and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to join our team and contribute their unique ideas to help us achieve our goals.

Clark University offers a generous benefit package for full and, if applicable, part-time employees that include; paid time off, generous retirement plan, group health and dental insurance, life insurance, and tuition, along with use of many campus amenities. For a complete list of benefits for eligible employees visit here.

To review the Clark University Police Department Annual Security and Fire Safety Report visit here.

Application Instructions:

To be considered for this position, you must submit your credentials online. Create a Clark University Careers Account by clicking on the APPLY NOW button below. You will be able to upload the following documents, which are required for consideration:

• Resume
• Cover letter

See the FAQ for using our online system. Please contact us if you need assistance applying through this website.

Already have a Clark University Careers Account? Login to your account to add documents or update your account.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Salary will be commensurate with skills and experience.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States for any employer.

A successful background check is required upon acceptance.