HR Specialist - Employee Engagement

SUMMARY: 

The HR Specialist – Employee Engagement is a vital member of the HR team, responsible for both core HR administration and ownership of wellness and engagement initiatives. This position manages employee records, benefits, onboarding, and HR reporting, while also leading programs that promote well-being, recognition, and positive workplace culture. Serving as the first point of contact for staff questions and concerns, the HR Specialist supports employee satisfaction, morale, and connection to Chapman Partnership’s mission.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Partner with HR leadership to improve payroll processes and ensure alignment with HRIS systems.
• Maintain accurate employee records, update HRIS, and prepare reports.
• Coordinate benefits enrollment, education, and changes, ensuring staff receive clear, compassionate support.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and orientation for new hires.
• Assist with compliance requirements, including training records, audits, and required postings.
• Coordinate employee benefits enrollment, education, and changes, providing support to staff with clarity and compassion. Facilitate training sessions and workshops related to workplace conduct, equity, and professional development.
• Design and manage Chapman Partnership’s Wellness Program, including health initiatives, challenges, and mental health resources.
• Organize recognition programs and engagement events (appreciation days, town halls, morale-building activities).
• Track participation, collect feedback, and recommend improvements to wellness and engagement initiatives.
• Participate in cross-departmental projects to strengthen HR service delivery and operational efficiency.
• Serve as the first point of contact for employee concerns, workplace conflicts, and grievances, ensuring timely, professional resolution.
• Conduct confidential investigations into workplace complaints, policy violations, and disciplinary actions. 
• Conduct exit interviews, track trends, and provide recommendations to improve retention and workplace culture.
• Participate in HR projects and initiatives as assigned, collaborate with HR team members and cross-functional teams to achieve HR goals, and identify opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies within the HR function.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• 2–3 years of HR experience with direct focus on employee relations and compliance, preferably in a nonprofit or social services setting.
• Experience conducting workplace investigations and advising on disciplinary actions strongly preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS systems required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Strong understanding of employee relations practices, HR compliance, and nonprofit workplace dynamics.
• Excellent mediation, conflict resolution, and communication skills with the ability to foster trust and fairness.
• Ability to navigate sensitive situations with discretion, empathy, and professionalism.
• Familiarity with trauma-informed practices and experience working with diverse populations.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Collaborative, mission-driven mindset with commitment to supporting both staff and organizational goals.
• Bilingual in English and either Spanish or Creole strongly preferred.