Human Resources Generalist - Administrative and Operational Support - Hybrid Chicago Loop Office

NORC at the University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

14d • $48,000 - $55,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

JOB SUMMARY: NORC at the University of Chicago is seeking an HR Generalist to join the NORC People team in our Chicago Loop office. This is an entry-level position designed to provide foundational support across a broad range of human resources functions. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the smooth operation of HR processes and programs by delivering administrative and operational assistance. The HR Generalist collaborates with NORC People team members and internal stakeholders to support recruitment, onboarding, benefits, and data management. This position is ideal for individuals looking to begin or grow their career in human resources within a dynamic and mission-driven organization. Location : Hybrid role based in our Chicago Loop office, with expectation of 3 days a week in the office. Occasional local travel may be required. DEPARTMENT: NORC People The NORC People Department of approximately 25 staff supports NORC's mission and values by collaborating with research, operations, and administrative departments to recruit, develop, and retain top staff. Because NORC is a government contractor, the NORC People team plays a large role ensuring that all staff information and systems remain secure and that our organization is fully compliant with our policies. NORC People is responsible for talent acquisition, hiring, benefits administration, employee relations matters, and performance evaluation programs to ensure our organization is maintaining compliance while keeping employees’ best interests in mind.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• 1 year of relevant HR work experience.
• Foundational understanding of HR principles, employment laws, and organizational policies.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and familiarity with HRIS or other HR software platforms.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to be onsite at least 3 days a week.
• Qualified applicants must be eligible to work in the U.S. We regret that we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position.

Responsibilities

• Recruitment Support: Assist in coordinating job postings across internal and external platforms. Assist in scheduling interviews and communicating with candidates throughout the hiring process. Assist with the applicant tracking system to help ensure compliance with hiring procedures.
• Employee Onboarding: Assist in preparing onboarding materials and coordinating orientation sessions. Ensure completion of required documentation and system setup for new hires. Serve as a point of contact for new employees during their transition. Collaborate with IT and facilities to ensure readiness for new team members.
• HR Program Assistance: Provide logistical and administrative support for employee engagement initiatives. Assist in coordinating training sessions, workshops, and learning events. Support performance management cycles by tracking deadlines and communications. Help gather feedback and data to improve HR programs and initiatives. Responsible for processing unemployment claims
• Benefits Administration Support: Assist employees with benefits enrollment and changes. Respond to routine inquiries regarding health, retirement, and wellness benefits. Liaise with benefit vendors to resolve issues and ensure timely service. Help maintain benefits documentation and compliance records.
• HR Data Maintenance: Update and maintain employee records in HRIS and other databases. Ensure accuracy, confidentiality, and integrity of personnel data. Generate reports and assist with audits and compliance reviews. Support data entry and tracking for HR metrics and analytics.
• Other Duties as assigned: Provide administrative support for employee relations cases and investigations. Assist in interpreting HR policies and procedures for staff.

Benefits

• Generously subsidized health insurance, effective on the first day of employment
• Dental and vision insurance
• A defined contribution retirement program, along with a separate voluntary 403(b) retirement program
• Group life insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance
• Benefits that promote work/life balance, including generous paid time off, holidays; paid parental leave, bereavement leave, tuition assistance, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees