Junior HR Business Partner / HR Generalist

The Junior HR Business Partner / HR Generalist provides operational and consultative human resources support to assigned colleges and administrative units across the University. Working under the guidance of the HR Business Partner, this role assists in aligning HR practices with institutional priorities while supporting employee relations, performance management, talent processes, and compliance.

This position serves as a key point of contact for managers and employees on routine HR matters and supports broader workforce initiatives in collaboration with HR Centers of Excellence (COEs). Junior HRBP contributes to a positive, inclusive, and compliant workplace environment while developing deeper expertise in strategic HR practices.

HR Advisory & Operational Support:

• Provide first-line HR consultation to managers and employees on policies, procedures, and employment-related matters.
• Support workforce planning and staffing activities in collaboration with Talent Acquisition.
• Assist with job description development, organizational updates, and position changes.
• Provide guidance on performance management processes, including coaching managers on documentation and feedback practices.
• Support compensation-related inquiries in coordination with central HR.

Employee Relations & Performance Support:

• Respond to routine employee relations matters and escalate complex issues to the HR Business Partner as appropriate.
• Assist in managing performance concerns, corrective action processes, and documentation in alignment with applicable policies and Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs).
• Support investigations by gathering documentation and coordinating meetings when needed.
• Promote respectful workplace practices and equitable treatment.

Organizational & Change Support:

• Assist in implementing organizational changes, restructuring efforts, and workforce adjustments under HRBP guidance.
• Support communication efforts during organizational transitions.
• Contribute to assessments aimed at improving team effectiveness and workplace culture.

HR Administration & Compliance:

• Ensure consistent application of HR policies, procedures, and university standards.
• Provide guidance in collaboration with HR Centers of Excellence on benefits, leave administration, ADA/FMLA processes, and other HR programs.
• Maintain compliance with state and federal employment laws and applicable CBAs.
• Support reporting and data requests using HR systems (e.g., Workday).
• Maintain accurate records and documentation.

Workforce Data & Reporting:

• Generate basic HR reports and assist in analyzing workforce data to support decision-making.
• Track trends in employee relations, turnover, and staffing activities.
• Support preparation of materials for leadership review.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS: KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum of three (3) years of progressive HR experience, preferably in a generalist or employee relations capacity.
• Working knowledge of HR practices, employment laws, and regulations.
• Experience supporting employee relations and performance management processes.
• Ability to build collaborative working relationships across departments.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities with minimal supervision.
• Experience using HR systems and generating basic reports.