Employee Engagement Specialist

Employee Training, Retention and Engagement:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive New Employee Orientation program for staff.
• Coordinate staff engagement activities such as Staff Retreats, Staff Award programs, and staff development programs.
• Promote professional growth through a monthly newsletter highlighting development opportunities for staff.
• Maintain a staff development resource hub on the COP HR website with accessible educational materials.
• Create opportunities for interactive staff social engagement to support team building and recognition.
• Serve as the College liaison to the Superior Accomplishment Award Committee.
• Coordinate annual employee surveys and analyze engagement metrics to inform initiatives.
• Foster a listening culture by incorporating feedback mechanisms into engagement and communication strategies.

FMLA and Leave support:

• Administer Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and other leave programs in accordance with university policies and federal regulations.
• Provide guidance to employees and supervisors on leave eligibility, documentation requirements, and return-to-work procedures.
• Monitor leave balances and coordinate with Payroll and Benefits to ensure accurate tracking and compliance.
• Support employees in navigating complex leave scenarios, including intermittent leave and accommodations.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of leave laws and regulations to ensure College compliance.

Talent Acquisition:

• Manage assigned recruitments, including drafting job descriptions, posting requisitions, reviewing applications, and phone screening candidates.
• Partner with hiring managers to ensure compliant searches that deliver an exceptional candidate experience.
• Conduct employment verifications, reference checks, and background screenings.
• Support onboarding for all new employees, including faculty, TEAMS, OPS, student assistants, and graduate assistants as assigned

General Employee HR support:

• Serve as HR consultant for faculty and staff on policies, procedures, benefits, and employment concerns.
• Advise on performance appraisals and provide HR reports on compensation, hiring, leave, and salary equity.
• Manage visa application processes in collaboration with employees, administrators, Tax Services, and the UF International Center.
• Attend training to become an expert in this area and stay abreast of new regulations related to visa processing.
• Stay current on visa regulations and ensure timely renewals prior to expiration dates..
• Other duties as assigned by the Human Resources Director.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Three years of HR experience in higher education with a focus on employee engagement initiatives is preferred.
• Energetic, customer-focused attitude with strong interpersonal skills.
• Experience in higher education or a large, complex organization.
• Knowledge of leave administration, employee engagement, and talent acquisition processes.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Experience developing and leading employee engagement, development, and retention programs, including orientations, trainings, and retreats.
• Strong problem-solving skills and strategic planning/project management capabilities.
• Technical aptitude with proficiency in Windows, Microsoft Office (Excel emphasis), WordPress, Salesforce, and SmartSheets.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with a diverse constituency.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace.
• Passion for leading, influencing, and motivating others.