Human Resource Specialist

Portsmouth Public Schools • Portsmouth, VA

2d

About The Position

The Human Resource Specialist plays a vital role in supporting the Division’s mission to attract, retain, and sustain a talented and healthy workforce. Under the direction of the Senior Supervisor for Recruitment, Retention & Wellness, the Human Resources Specialist is responsible for coordinating and implementing recruitment, hiring, and onboarding processes for school-based and classified staff, as well as developing and promoting initiatives that support employee wellbeing, engagement, and retention. The Specialist serves as a key liaison between Human Resources, school administrators, and community partners to ensure a positive and equitable employment experience for all staff.

Requirements

• Strong understanding of recruitment best practices, employment law, and HR processes.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build relationships across diverse employee groups.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and execute wellness and engagement initiatives.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail.
• Proficiency in HR information systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and discretion.
• Experience with programming and event management.
• Working knowledge of workplace wellness programs and initiatives.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other prospective and current staff.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Education, or a related field required.
• Minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in human resources, recruitment, or employee engagement; experience in an educational setting preferred.

Nice To Haves

• PHR, SHRM-CP, or equivalent certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Recruitment and Staffing Coordinate and participate in recruitment activities such as job fairs, community outreach events, and digital campaigns.
• Screen applications, conduct initial candidate reviews, and support hiring managers through the interview and selection process.
• Manage and maintain applicant tracking systems, ensuring timely and accurate updates.
• Assist with onboarding processes, including orientation sessions, background checks, and new employee documentation.
• Continuously evaluate recruitment and hiring workflows to identify and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, transparency, and overall stakeholder satisfaction.
• Facilitate a smooth transition and acclimation experience for new employees by coordinating follow-up support, monitoring early-stage satisfaction, and ensuring alignment with school and divisional culture.
• Carry out training sessions, provide responsive customer service, communicate policies and procedures, and support employees, supervisors, and the public with professionalism and clarity.
• Employee Wellness and Engagement Develop, coordinate, and promote employee wellness programs focused on physical, emotional, and professional wellbeing.
• Implement onboarding procedures, wellness initiatives, workshops, campaigns, and employee engagement activities by coordinating schedules, preparing materials, and ensuring smooth program delivery.
• Collaborate with schools and departments to implement health and wellness initiatives, including fitness challenges, stress management workshops, and employee recognition events.
• Serve as a resource for employees seeking assistance with wellness-related concerns or available support programs.
• Collect and analyze wellness program data to evaluate effectiveness and recommend improvements.
• Partner with internal and external stakeholders, including benefits and risk management teams, to align wellness programs with broader organizational goals.
• Compliance and Support Ensure recruitment and employment practices align with local, state, and federal employment laws and Division policies.
• Support diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within recruitment and employee engagement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare reports related to staffing, wellness, and engagement metrics.
• Assist in the development and communication of human resources policies and procedures.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level