People Operations Specialist

About The Woodruff Arts Center

The Woodruff Arts Center is a leading arts institution in Atlanta, Georgia, encompassing the Alliance Theatre, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and the High Museum of Art. We are committed to fostering a vibrant arts community, enriching lives through exceptional artistic experiences and educational programs.

Position Summary

The People Operations Specialist plays a vital role in supporting the Human Resources team at The Woodruff Arts Center. This position provides comprehensive operational and administrative support, ensuring efficient and effective HR processes across all three divisions. The People Operations Specialist will maintain accurate employee records, support recruitment and onboarding, coordinate benefits and payroll processes, generate reports, and provide exceptional service to employees throughout the employee lifecycle.

In this role, you will also contribute to creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture that supports the artists, staff, and community of The Woodruff Arts Center. The position offers opportunities to grow expertise in HR systems, compliance, and employee experience initiatives.

Responsibilities

HR Operations & Compliance

• Provide operational and administrative support to the Chief Human Resources Officer and the HR team.

• Handle sensitive employee information with discretion and professionalism.

• Monitor the Woodruff Arts Center Human Resources (WACHR) inbox and route/respond to inquiries as appropriate.

• Process invoices, expenses, and purchase orders; manage HR office supply orders.

• Assist with policy administration, updates, and compliance reporting.

• Partner with Payroll team on employee changes, deductions, and audits to ensure accurate processing.

• Support the preparation of reports, dashboards, and presentations for leadership.

Onboarding & Employee Lifecycle

• Coordinate Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9 forms) and E-Verify compliance in Workday.

• Support new hire onboarding including invitations, first-day preparation, setup, and facilitation.

• Conduct background checks for new hires & rehires.

• Support weekly employee terminations, including related parking and Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) adjustments.

• Maintain accurate employee records in the Human Resources Information System (HRIS), Workday.

Leave, Benefits, and Wellness

• Support administration of Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Workers’ Compensation cases.

• Assist with benefits reconciliation and employee inquiries.

• Coordinate wellness programming and employee wellness events.

• Coordinate health and safety trainings for staff.

Learning, Volunteer, and Engagement

• Format and maintain Workday Learning content.

• Coordinate volunteer programs including applications, training, and oversight.

• Provide administrative support for volunteer engagement initiatives.

• Assist with employee engagement events and recognition programs.

Employee Support & Experience

• Serve as the first point of contact for employee inquiries regarding policies, benefits, and systems, escalating issues as needed.

• Support parking and MARTA benefit coordination.

• Respond to employee questions through case management and ensure timely resolution.

• Help ensure a consistent and positive employee experience across all HR programs.

Data, Systems, and Process Improvement

• Generate and maintain standard reports and audits in Workday to ensure data accuracy and compliance.

• Assist with Workday testing, integrations, and process improvements in partnership with IT and HR leadership.

• Identify opportunities to streamline HR processes and enhance employee-facing services.

Work Schedule

• Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Hybrid schedule; typically includes a combination of remote and in-office work each week (number of in-office days subject to organizational needs).

Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in an administrative or operational support role, preferably within Human Resources.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

• Experience with HRIS systems (e.g., Workday, ADP) is a plus.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong organizational and time management skills.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.

• High attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• A passion for the arts and supporting a vibrant cultural community is a plus.

Physical Demands / Work Environment

• Some standing, walking, bending, frequent use of hands, stooping, and light lifting (at least 20 pounds) required.

• Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.