Job Description

Job Title: HR Specialist

Department: Human Resources

Reports to: Director of Human Resources

Classification: Exempt Non-Union

Job Type: Full-Time, 260 Days

Welcome to Lawrence Public Schools

Lawrence Public Schools is committed to ensuring that ALL students successfully master the content and skills necessary to graduate from high school, college, and/or career ready. We achieve this by providing a standards-based, rigorous instructional program focused on academic achievement and the development of 21st-century skills, accompanied by a comprehensive system of support. These efforts are monitored and assessed regularly to ensure accountability to all stakeholders.

General Overview: The HR Specialist supports the daily operations of the Human Resources department, with a focus on employee support, compliance, benefits administration, and leave management. This role is essential in ensuring consistent application of HR policies and programs while providing guidance and service to employees and management. The HR Specialist also contributes to fostering a positive and compliant workplace by assisting in key HR functions and initiatives.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Administers and maintains employee benefit programs, including health, dental, vision, life, disability, 403(B), and tuition reimbursement; manages enrollments, changes, terminations, and related employee inquiries.

• Coordinates and supports the full lifecycle of leave management (FMLA, ADA, disability, etc.) while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and internal policies.

• Conducts new hire onboarding and orientation; supports employee recognition programs and performance management initiatives.

• Responds to routine employee and supervisor inquiries regarding policies, benefits, and HR procedures, escalating sensitive or complex issues as necessary.

• Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws; monitors, reviews, and updates HR policies and practices accordingly.

• Supports tracking and documentation of required employee certifications, licensure, continuing education, and training compliance.

• Maintains current knowledge of HR best practices, legal and regulatory changes, and industry trends; contributes to process improvements and policy updates.

• Assists with annual open enrollment, benefit communications, and 401(k) plan activities, including enrollments and catch-up contributions.

• Provides support for data entry and reporting, including benefits-related reporting for billing and cost allocation.

• Performs other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall efficiency and success of the HR department.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).

Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in human resources, preferably in an educational setting. Strong knowledge of HR operations, employment laws and regulations. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, with the ability to adapt to different software systems for tracking and reporting. Familiarity with collective bargaining agreements. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Language: Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Lawrence Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive environment for employees and applicants. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Pay Range

$51,215-$75,747

Non-Discrimination Statement

Lawrence Public Schools is dedicated to maintaining a workplace and learning environment free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose discrimination or participate in investigations.

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of the required background check and availability of funding.

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