HR SPECIALIST

AGING AND LONG-TERM CARE OF EASTERN WASHINGTON

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Title: HR Specialist

Department: HR Department

Position Type: Full-time

Supervisor: HR Manager

Supervises: N/A

Exempt/ Non-Exempt: Non-Exempt

Position Overview:

This position is responsible for a variety of HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, onboarding, orientation, benefits enrollment, and compliance with labor laws and regulations. The HR Specialist will collaborate with management and employees to foster a positive workplace culture, ensure effective communication, and maintain employee engagement.

Our Mission: As an Area Agency on Aging we promote well-being, independence, dignity, and choice for older persons and all individuals needing long-term care in our five-county area.

Our Values: At Aging & Long Term Care, we have four core values: Dignity, Compassion, Knowledge, and Service. Our work is guided by a shared set of values that reflect our commitment to the people and communities we serve. These values shape how we show up for older adults, people living with disabilities, caregivers, and each other. They’re more than words on paper, they are the foundation of our mission and the spirit behind every connection that we make.

Our Culture: Our agency possesses a positive, welcoming environment. We provide a variety of wellness services, foster employee engagement through peer recognition and regular staff social activities. Our employee assistance programs foster health and well-being. Employees are regularly offered opportunities to socialize together, and volunteer in the community.

Benefits:

• 37.5-hour full-time work week
• Medical insurance (5 plan options) with low deductibles; premiums are paid 100% for the employee
• Dental insurance (3 plan options); premiums are paid for the employee and family members
• Vision care insurance
• Long-term disability and life insurance
• Generous paid vacation and sick leave, plus 12 paid holidays
• Flexible spending accounts for qualifying medical and dependent care expenses
• Department of Retirement Systems pension/retirement plan
• 457/Roth payroll IRA options
• Wellness and employee assistance program
• Paid premiums for Washington Paid Family & Medical Leave and WA long term care benefits
• Ample training for development of program expertise and personal growth
• We are a qualifying employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Essential Functions and Responsibilities include the following:

• Manages for full cycle recruiting: Recruits, interviews, job postings, candidate screening, and facilitates the hiring of qualified job applicants for open positions; collaborates with departmental managers to understand skills and competencies required.
• Handles routine tasks necessary for managing and executing the onboarding process.
• Responsible for preparing and administering orientation for new employee benefits.
• Assist with the benefits enrollment processes and ensure that all benefits are properly administered. This includes maintaining records and ensuring compliance with legal regulations.
• Conducts background checks, reference checks and employee eligibility verifications.
• Data tracking and documentation management includes; reviewing, tracking, and documenting compliance, tracking completion of policy and procedures, training, education, certifications and work assessments.
• Assist in leading and promoting employee engagement, diversity initiatives, wellness, and safety programs. Attend and participate in committee meetings and required training.
• Maintains compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, and recommends best practices; reviews policies and practices to maintain compliance.
• Assist in responding to employee information requests including, but not limited to, verification of employment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Physical Demands

• Proficient in typing and keyboarding with manual dexterity for accurate repetitive tasks and occasional periods of writing. Typing and keyboarding includes up to 7.5 hours per day.
• Strong verbal communication including speech, visual, and hearing skills for interacting with clients, colleagues, and the public.
• Ability to sit for extended periods and maintain good hand-eye coordination.
• Capable of performing tasks that involve bending, stretching, stooping, reaching, and occasional climbing.
• Ability to lift and move objects up to 20 lbs. and work in various environmental conditions including office and remote settings.
• Ability to speak and listen is adequate for interacting with both employees and the public.

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

• Proficient with Microsoft Word, Outlook and basic skills with Excel and databases.
• Familiarity with various virtual platforms, including Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
• Verbal and written communication skills.
• Interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
• Organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to addressing HR challenges
• Demonstrates ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
• Ability to prioritize tasks when appropriate.
• Thorough knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations.
• Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn the organization’s HRIS and talent management systems.
• Ability to demonstrate diplomacy, integrity, and professionalism.
• Ability to work independently in a hybrid remote setting, with good judgment and a minimum of supervision.
• Ability to work effectively as a team member with a wide range of diverse staff and community members and to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Behavioral Standards:

Maintains a friendly, courteous, and respectful demeanor. Communicates effectively in one-on-one and small group settings. Capable of being a collaborative team member contributing to the organization's goals. Takes initiative to achieve work objectives and consistently demonstrates honest and ethical behaviors. Establishes positive relationships with clients, volunteers, coworkers, team, and supervisors. Represents the agency in a positive and professional manner. toward clients, coworkers, and volunteers. Exhibits compassion for our clients and their well-being.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Some college or technical degree and a minimum of 2-3 years of experience in an office setting.
• Proven experience as an HR Specialist or similar role, with an understanding of best practices.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and minimum state-required vehicle insurance and have access to reliable transportation.
• Successful completion of criminal background check upon hire, and biennially.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in social services is preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in human resources or a related field; or HR certification (e.g., SHRM-CP, PHR) is preferred.
• SHRM-CP a plus.