Benefits and Recruiting Specialist

About Daybreak Independent Services, Inc.

In 2010, Daybreak Independent Services (DBIS) commenced operations to provide individuals with developmental disabilities the opportunity to acquire and apply their skills within a traditional work environment. Since its inception, Daybreak has broadened its mission across multiple locations, thereby accommodating an increasing number of individuals and expanding service offerings. DBIS currently serves hundreds of New Yorkers living with developmental disabilities.

Collaborations with local businesses such as Stew Leonard's, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls have significantly contributed to the organization's growth and vision. Furthermore, the introduction of residential programs has enabled DBIS to support individuals requiring continuous supervision.

This is merely the beginning. As we positively impact lives every day, we too undergo transformation in our approach. Thus, the work continues, and we anticipate the opportunities that the future holds.

Website: https://www.daybreakis.org

Job Title: Benefits & Recruiting Specialist

Reports to: HR/Benefits Manager

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Job Classification: Full-Time

Hours/Days: 40 hours per week

Salary: $28- $30

Shift: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Daybreak’s Independent Services, Inc. (DBIS) Benefits & Recruiting Specialist supports the organization’s mission by recruiting qualified, mission-aligned talent and administering employee benefits programs that promote staff well-being. This role combines people-focused service with strong administrative and compliance skills. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment and understands the unique challenges of nonprofit hiring and benefits administration. The position reports to the HR/Benefits Manager

Key Responsibilities

Recruiting & Talent Acquisition

• Manage full-cycle recruiting for a variety of nonprofit roles including program staff, development, administrative, and leadership positions.
• Collaborate closely with hiring managers to understand program needs and ensure timely staffing.
• Develop recruitment strategies that align with mission, values, and budget realities.
• Source diverse candidate pools using community partnerships, nonprofit networks, volunteer pipelines, and social platforms.
• Maintain ATS records, screen applicants, coordinate interviews, and manage reference checks.
• Promote the organization’s mission and culture at career fairs, community events, and through employer branding efforts.
• Support volunteer-to-staff conversion initiatives and talent pipelines.

Benefits Administration

• Administer nonprofit benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, retirement plans, employee assistance programs, and wellness initiatives.
• Provide compassionate, responsive customer service to staff regarding benefits enrollment and eligibility.
• Coordinate annual open enrollment and communicate plan changes in clear, accessible ways.
• Liaise with brokers, vendors, and third-party administrators.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws and nonprofit-specific requirements (ACA, HIPAA, ERISA, COBRA, FMLA).

HR Support & Compliance

• Maintain employee records in HRIS and ensure accuracy for audits, grant reporting, and compliance.
• Assist with onboarding to ensure a supportive introduction to the organization’s mission, values, and policies.
• Prepare HR data reports related to hiring, turnover, benefits utilization, and grant-related metrics.
• Support staff engagement activities and recognition programs.
• Assist in maintaining and updating HR policies, procedures, and compliance documentation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, Social Sciences, or related field.
• 2 years of experience in benefits, recruiting, or HR generalist roles—nonprofit experience strongly preferred.
• Understanding of nonprofit staffing challenges, compensation structures, and benefits administration.
• Knowledge of employment law and HR best practices.
• Experience with HRIS and ATS systems.
• Strong interpersonal skills; ability to work with diverse staff populations.
• High level of confidentiality, empathy, and cultural competency.

Preferred Skills – (An Asset)

• SHRM-CP, or equivalent certification (a plus).
• Experience supporting grant-funded positions or roles with restricted funding.
• Familiarity with community partnerships, volunteer programs, and nonprofit networks.
• Strong presentation and communication skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a resource-conscious environment.
• Fluency in Spanish and English

Work Environment

• Full-time position; onsite,
• Occasional travel for community hiring events, partnerships, and training.

What there for Me: As Full-Time

• Anthem BSBC Premium Medical Health Insurance
• Dental & Vision
• Life Insurance Benefits
• 403(B) Retirement Plan, 2% bonus match based on Agency Fiscal year ending turnover,
• Short term disability
• Term Life Insurance
• Wellness Program
• Award Program
• New York Commuter Benefits
• Tuition Assistance Program
• We pay sick and vacation time to eligible full-time employees after completing a 3-months introductory period.

Please note: Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required.