Human Resource Associate (HR Associate)

For over 30 years, Gersh Autism has empowered students on the autism spectrum to reach their full potential. Serving individuals aged 5-21 across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, our network of K-12 schools provides personalized education tailored to each student’s unique learning style. We offer comprehensive therapeutic services—speech, physical, occupational therapy, and more—along with vocational training for older students. Our dedicated team collaborates with families to ensure academic, social, and emotional growth, preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

At Gersh Autism, we are committed to helping individuals on the autism spectrum lead fulfilling, independent lives.

Location: West Hills (Huntington) with occasional travel to other sites as needed

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Human Resource Associate to join our team and support our mission at West Hills. This role requires strong technical skills, excellent organizational ability, and a can-do attitude. You will be the first point of contact for employees, providing in-person HR support, resolving day-to-day questions, managing leave of absence cases, and fostering a positive workplace environment.

In addition to core HR functions, this role includes processing and distributing mail, supporting unemployment claims, and assisting across locations when needed.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the first point of contact for employee inquiries, providing timely and professional HR support
• Manage day-to-day HR questions related to policies, benefits, employee relations, and other HR processes
• Administer and coordinate leave of absence (LOA) cases (FMLA, NYSPFL, STD, WC, personal leaves) in compliance with policies and legal requirements
• Assist with unemployment claims: open, track, and help manage UE cases
• Manage onboarding, offboarding, and other employee lifecycle processes
• Conduct new hire orientation sessions
• Maintain and update employee records in HR databases and systems
• Process and distribute incoming/outgoing mail accurately and in a timely manner
• Provide administrative support, including preparing reports and HR documents using Excel and other Microsoft Office tools
• Travel to other sites as needed to provide HR coverage and support
• Ensure HR practices are consistent with organizational values and legal standards
• Additional responsibilities as assigned

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred
• 3–5 years of experience in HR support or similar administrative role
• Strong technical skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Office Suite
• Strong organizational skills, with ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• Prior experience with LOA processes and unemployment claims preferred
• Willingness to travel to other sites when required
• Positive, can-do attitude with flexibility in a fast-paced environment

WORKING CONDITIONS

Full time, regular business hours Monday through Friday, primary location is Huntington, NY with travel to other school locations as needed.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to sit for long periods

Ability to move freely throughout the building with no restrictions

Benefits for Full Time Employees

Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package, including comprehensive health and retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to your personal and professional growth. 

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k matching)
• Life Insurance (B