Human Resources Coordinator

Van Andel Institute

13d • Onsite

About The Position

Van Andel Institute (VAI) is hiring a full-time Human Resources Coordinator to provide a welcoming first point of contact for employees, leaders, and visitors and to support the smooth operation of its HR team. The role supports Talent Acquisition, Employee Engagement, Total Rewards, and the Chief People Officer, offering exposure to how the different parts of a people function work together. The HR team is growing to support an institution bringing together biomedical research, graduate education, and K–12 science education, with a focus on employee experience and recognition.

The Coordinator reports to the Director of Talent and Employee Engagement and works with colleagues across HR. The role is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and is mainly onsite because much of the work involves in-person support. VAI offers a flexible work model. Candidates must live in or be willing to relocate to the greater Grand Rapids area.

Requirements

• Two or more years of experience providing administrative support or coordinating events, programs, or projects.
• An associate’s degree or equivalent experience.
• A foundational understanding of HR practices, employee records, and confidentiality.
• Sound judgment when handling sensitive information and an understanding of when to refer questions to a specialist.
• Strong organizational skills, including maintaining accurate records, managing schedules, and keeping competing deadlines on track.
• Clear written and verbal communication and a welcoming, responsive approach.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to learn HR systems such as Workday and SharePoint.
• Must live in or be willing to relocate to the greater Grand Rapids area.
• Must complete a 7-panel urinalysis/drug test as part of the pre-employment process.

Responsibilities

• Schedule interviews and coordinate candidate travel.
• Maintain pre-employment screening records and coordinate New Hire Orientation logistics.
• Support employee-led Social Team events.
• Help coordinate HR cycles, such as performance management, through reminders, tracking, and logistics.
• Coordinate employee programs, including lactation room reservations, employee sports teams, and welcome gifts for new parents.
• Provide administrative support to the Chief People Officer, including calendar coordination, meeting preparation, and action-item follow-up.
• Prepare materials and coordinate logistics for HR team meetings and events.
• Welcome visitors, answer general HR questions, and connect people with the appropriate HR expert.
• Maintain accurate and secure records, process employment verifications, and keep required workplace postings current.
• Help keep HR’s online resources clear and easy to navigate.
• Suggest improved ways of working and help put them into practice.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• A 401(k) with a dollar-for-dollar match on contributions, up to 5% of eligible pay.
• 11 paid holidays.
• 72 hours of paid time off each year.
• 10 days of vacation from the first day.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• A lifestyle spending account.
• An onsite fitness facility.
• Free, covered parking.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree