Director Workforce Development Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Human Resources Specialist

SUMMARY: The Human Resources Specialist supports the daily operations of the Human Resources Department by coordinating employment processes, maintaining employee records, administering onboarding and personnel systems, ensuring compliance with federal and state employment regulations, and providing exceptional customer service to employees, applicants, administrators, and the public. This position serves as a key resource for recruitment, licensure, employee records, substitute staffing support, HR reporting, and personnel transactions while maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and professionalism.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinate and manage employment processes including job postings, applicant tracking, interview scheduling, employment recommendations, and hiring documentation.
• Administer employee onboarding, orientation, and offboarding processes to ensure a positive employee experience and compliance with district procedures.
• Maintain accurate and confidential personnel files, employment records, and Human Resources information systems (HRIS).
• Prepare employment contracts, personnel action forms, salary placement documentation, and other employment-related correspondence.
• Monitor employee licensure, certifications, required trainings, and mandatory compliance requirements; notify employees and supervisors of renewal deadlines.
• Assist with employee leaves of absence, including Family and Medical Leave (FMLA), military leave, and other district-approved leave programs.
• Coordinate criminal background checks, reference checks, employment verification, and pre-employment requirements.
• Support recruitment initiatives including career fairs, university partnerships, advertising, and employment marketing efforts.
• Provide guidance to applicants and employees regarding employment procedures, district policies, benefits, licensure requirements, and Human Resources processes.
• Maintain accurate employee demographic, assignment, and organizational data for payroll, benefits, state reporting, and district records.
• Assist with unemployment claims, workers' compensation documentation, and employment verification requests.
• Collaborate with Payroll and Business Services to ensure accurate employee records, position changes, and compensation information.
• Generate Human Resources reports and workforce data to support district planning, staffing, compliance, and decision-making.
• Assist in preparing reports required by the Iowa Department of Education, Iowa Workforce Development, federal agencies, and other regulatory entities.
• Maintain current knowledge of federal and state employment laws, Board policies, negotiated agreements, and Human Resources best practices.
• Support substitute staffing processes and employee assignment tracking as needed.
• Assist with employee recognition programs, wellness initiatives, and staff engagement activities.
• Collaborate with district administrators to support staffing, organizational planning, and personnel initiatives.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding employee information and personnel matters.
• Participate in required meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Human Resources.

EDUCATION & RELATED WORK EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, Education, or a related field required.
• Professional Human Resources certification (SHRM-CP, PHR, or equivalent) preferred.
• Three or more years of progressively responsible Human Resources experience preferred.
• Experience in Human Resources within a public school district or public sector organization is preferred.
• Experience with Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS), applicant tracking systems, and electronic records management is preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience may be considered.

TECHNICAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES

• Thorough knowledge of Human Resources principles, employment practices, and personnel administration.
• Working knowledge of federal and state employment laws including FMLA, FLSA, ADA, Title IX, and employment compliance requirements.
• Knowledge of Iowa educator licensure requirements is preferred.
• Proficiency with Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS), applicant tracking systems, spreadsheets, databases, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple projects while meeting deadlines.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong customer service skills with the ability to establish positive relationships with employees, applicants, and district stakeholders.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism in handling confidential information.
• Ability to interpret policies, procedures, contracts, and employment regulations accurately.
• Ability to analyze employment data and prepare reports for district leadership.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with administrators, supervisors, and support staff.
• Ability to promote and follow Board of Education policies, district procedures, and professional standards of conduct.

Full Job Description: HR Specialist