Human Resources Associate (Hybrid)

Summary

The Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU), a research, policy and advocacy organization dedicated to strengthening and advancing the work of public universities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, is seeking a Human Resources (HR) Associate to support the organization’s life-cycle HR function. The HR Associate is primarily responsible for coordinating recruitment and orientation for new employees, administering benefits and supporting staff appreciation activities. Successful candidates will thrive in a fast-paced environment, possess extraordinary interpersonal skills, keen attention to detail and a passion for contributing to APLU being an employer of choice. This full-time position is based in Washington, DC. Employees of APLU are eligible to telework at least two days per week. They must reside in DC, MD, or VA, be up-to-date with their COVID vaccinations and pass standard background checks. For more information, consult www.aplu.org.

Background

APLU is a research, policy, and advocacy organization dedicated to strengthening and advancing the work of public universities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. With a membership of 248 public research universities, land-grant institutions, state university systems, and affiliated organizations, APLU's agenda is built on the three pillars of increasing degree completion and academic success, advancing scientific research, and expanding engagement. Annually, member campuses enroll 5.0 million undergraduates and 1.3 million graduate students, award 1.3 million degrees, employ 1.3 million faculty and staff, and conduct $49.5 billion in university-based research.

Responsibilities

• The HR Associate will provide administrative support to APLU’s life-cycle HR function which includes, but is not limited to the following:
• Support recruitment activities including, posting position announcements, reviewing applications, scheduling interviews, conducting background checks, etc., to ensure the recruitment process is conducted professionally and in compliance with APLU policies and procedures.
• Assist with benefits administration, including updating employee enrollments and reconciling invoices on a monthly basis.
• Coordinate orientation for new employees with the aim of ensuring new employees experience a smooth onboarding process and feel welcome at APLU.
• Coordinate in-person and virtual staff appreciation activities such as welcomes, annual holiday party, volunteer events, etc.
• Manage the HR email accounts and calendars, ensuring that emails are responded to promptly and professionally.
• Prepare and circulate monthly administrative updates (e.g., telephone list, calendar, etc.).
• Maintain employee files to ensure they are organized, complete and up-to-date.
• Maintain a high standard of confidentiality with employee records and information.
• Provide general administrative support to the HR office and APLU as requested.
• Participate as an integral member of the HR Team and APLU, and contribute to an inclusive, welcoming, and collegial workplace.
• Perform other duties as assigned to help ensure an effective HR function at APLU.

Preferred Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional administrative support experience. Work experience in human resources a plus.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to navigate relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds at all levels of the organization and contribute to an inclusive, welcoming and collegial workplace.
• Outstanding communication skills which must be effective and courteous, requiring high integrity when dealing with a broad array of confidential issues. Excellent writing skills required.
• Ability to manage and coordinate multiple projects and deadlines at once. Ability to identify and establish priorities, work independently, and exercise sound judgment related to providing support and assistance.
• Excellent organizational skills and a keen attention to detail are required.
• Experience and comfort planning events and facilitating team building activities a plus.
• Highly skilled in the use of Office365 (including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint). HRIS and/or database experience preferred. Willingness to learn new technologies as needed.
• Passion for the APLU mission and contributing to APLU being an employer of choice.