HR (Benefits) Specialist

The Human Resources Specialist supports the district's mission by providing comprehensive HR services to certified, classified, and substitute employees. This role ensures efficient onboarding, accurate records management, benefits administration, substitute coordination, and proactive support to assigned sites and departments. The specialist fosters a collaborative, equitable, and effective work environment while aligning with the district's values. Additionally, this role provides support to all HR department functions and needs as they arise, including the processing and management of EPARS (Employee Personnel Action Requests).

Qualifications

• Obtain and maintain a valid Arizona Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card (AZ IVP FPCC)
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (preferred).
• Two or more years of experience in human resources or a related role, preferably in a school district or public sector setting.
• Experience in benefits administration or insurance coordination is highly desirable.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships across diverse groups.
• Proficiency in HRIS and benefits management systems, as well as applicant tracking systems (e.g., Frontline).
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to upholding the district's core values of Equity, Collaboration, Excellence, and Accountability.

Essential Functions

Employee Support and Onboarding

• Manage onboarding processes for certified, classified, and substitute employees, ensuring compliance with district policies and state regulations.
• Serve as the primary HR contact for assigned school sites and departments, providing timely and responsive support.
• Assist employees with questions regarding contracts, district policies, and employee benefits.

Benefits Administration

• Serve as the district liaison for employee benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement plans.
• Conduct benefits orientation for new employees and provide ongoing support for all staff regarding benefit options, eligibility, enrollment, and changes.
• Coordinate annual open enrollment activities and assist employees in making informed decisions.
• Process benefits-related documentation and ensure timely updates in HRIS systems.
• Work with benefit providers and third-party administrators to resolve employee concerns and ensure accurate service.
• Maintain confidentiality and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations such as COBRA, HIPAA, and ACA reporting requirements.
• Support and communicate wellness program offerings to employees and promote participation.

Substitute Management

• Coordinate substitute assignments for assigned sites, ensuring coverage and addressing day-to-day needs.
• Assist with substitute recruitment, training, and evaluations.
• Monitor substitute performance and compliance with district expectations.

Records and Reporting

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date employee records for certified, classified, and substitute staff, including but not limited to certifications, IVP fingerprint cards, and benefits documents.
• Generate reports for assigned sites and district leadership, including staffing, compliance, benefits, and payroll-related data.
• Support district compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Support human resources reporting compliances such as TIA and SDER.

Job Postings and Recruitment

• Post and manage job listings for certified, classified, and substitute positions in the district's applicant tracking system.
• Collaborate with hiring team members to ensure current job descriptions align with district standards.

Payroll and Timesheet Support

• Verify timesheets for certified, classified, and substitute employees within assigned sites, ensuring accuracy and timely submission.
• Address payroll and benefit deduction discrepancies in collaboration with the payroll department.

Cross-Training and Collaboration

• Participate in cross-training to support all HR functions, including onboarding, substitute management, benefits administration, and compliance reporting.

• Provide backup support for other HR Specialists during high-demand periods or absences.
   

  Administrative and Compliance Support

• Assist with board meeting preparation, including staffing updates and agenda materials.
• Support phased retirement programs, employee transitions, and benefits continuation options (e.g., COBRA).
  Ensure adherence to district policies and procedures in all HR functions.
   

Salary Range: Classified (30)

Terms of Employment: 12 months

Reports To: Director of Human Resources