Human Resources Specialist

at  City of Yakima WA

Initial candidate eligibility is based on the job application and any accompanying documentation. It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide sufficient information and details within the body of the application (education and work experience sections) to permit the City of Yakima to properly evaluate the candidate’s qualification, abilities and experience as it relates to the requirements of the position. For calculation of experience, one year of experience equals 12 months with a minimum of 173.33 hours per month. Additional required documents must be attached. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of application fields.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

High School diploma or equivalent and four (4) years progressively responsible experience in human resource administration OR BA in Human Resources Management; Psychology; Industrial Relations; Public Administration or closely related field with one (1) year customer service experience in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment. Ability to accurately type 35 wpm.
Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) Certification SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP and at least one (1) year of human resource management experience is preferred.
(One year of experience equals 12 months with a minimum of 173.33 hours per month.)

JOB SUMMARY

Under administrative supervision, works independently within established procedures, performs a variety of complex personnel functions which require knowledge of City and department policies and practices. Performs responsible administrative support work. Compiles and analyzes data and makes recommendations. Applies independent judgment in making decisions and resolving personnel related problems.

Performs a variety of daily tasks required to facilitate, administer, and execute human resources functions including, but not limited to: screening, testing, orienting and on-boarding of staff; coordination of compensation, benefits, and leave; proactive performance and talent management; support of productivity, recognition and morale building activities; occupational health, safety and wellness programs; training and development; regulatory requirement compliance and enforcement of policies and procedures.
Responds to employment-related inquiries from applicants, employees, and supervisors. Refers highly complex and/or sensitive matters to the appropriate staff as necessary.
Assists in the administration of the City’s return-to-work and self-insured Worker’s Compensation programs. Collects, analyzes and interprets risk and accident data; recommends appropriate measures. Reviews accident reports and examines data concerning occupational injuries; processes claims in compliance with Department of Labor and Industries regulations; may interpret safety codes and regulations. Acts as direct liaison between the Worker’s Compensation third-party claims administrator, City personnel, and/or related providers. Assists in the preparation and distribution of monthly safety meeting agenda packets. Inspects accident scenes, investigates, makes recommendations, and maintains occupational injury logs. Coordinates independent medical examinations; maintains liaison with physicians.
Processes and assists in various phases of personnel selection, such as preparing job announcements and advertising; ; recruitment activities such as job fairs and school presentations; application screening for minimum requirements; coordinating, scheduling and notification of applicants for examinations and oral boards; scoring and proctoring of examinations; preparing registers for certification; and coordination of printing and forms maintenance. Conducts or acquires background information, records checks and employee eligibility verifications. Arranges necessary follow-up testing as required, including but not limited to polygraphs, medical and psychological exams. Communicates with hiring managers as necessary to facilitate hire.
Assists in the administration of the City’s self-insured medical, dental, life insurance and other employee benefit programs. Assists in notifying retired and terminated employees when coverage changes occur. Answers inquiries and assists employees in resolving problems with plan coverage. Reports coverage changes to the State Retirement System.
Assists employees, former employees and retirees with various questions such as the State Retirement System and deferred compensation plans. Assists with the deferred compensation program. Assists employees with the completion of application forms; distributes information; and logs data.
Trains and acts as lead worker to the Department Assistants; assigns work, resolves operational problems and reviews the work of Department Assistants. Performs detailed work assignments; coordinates projects; researches information and completes routine reports. Relays information in person, by phone or other communication systems. Arranges and schedules meetings and conferences, as necessary using discretion and tact. Maintains confidentiality of information.
Receives and tracks Personnel Action forms; ensures accuracy of information; inputs computer changes for the payroll master; and institutes follow-up reports.
Prepares or assists with EEOC reports, as needed.
Assists with classification studies such as salary and benefit surveys, research, and preparation of charts, graphs and reports. Works with division managers and Chief Examiner to develop or revise classifications. Attends Civil Service meetings; documents and maintains minutes of Civil Service meetings.
May coordinate training sessions, workshops and classes for individual and employee groups. Coordinates on-boarding/off-boarding with employees. Schedules orientations and gathers information; reviews with employee policies and procedures; answers questions; and assists with forms.
Processes unemployment claims; acts as liaison between the provider and City; researches additional information as needed.
Maintains compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, and recommended best practices; reviews policies and practices to maintain compliance.
Contributes to the effectiveness of City government by demonstrating and fostering an attitude that encourages cooperation and coordination of efforts and efficient use of resources. Provides continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively to provide exceptional customer service to internal and external customers.
May perform any/all duties of the Human Resources Assistant classification.
Requires regular and reliable attendance.
Performs other related duties as assigned.