Organizational Information

Avenues for Youth provides emergency shelter, transitional housing, rapid re-housing, collective housing, and host homes housing for youth and young families experiencing housing instability and homelessness. We strive to do that in a safe and nurturing environment through a social justice lens. Avenues seeks to partner with youth and young families while they define their experiences, life dreams and future. Our work takes into account historical trauma, systems of oppression, and intersectionality while being grounded in the power of resiliency, healing, and community.

Key Responsibilities

The following duties are normal for this position. These duties are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. 

Overview

This role will be tailored to the experience of the successful candidate: at its core, the focus is on hands-on HR support and coordination for a team of about 50 staff (40 full-time, 10 part-time), partnering closely with managers to solve day-to-day HR challenges and maintain reliable, well-organized processes. For candidates with advanced or leadership HR experience, there is opportunity to shape broader policy and serve as a key partner to executive leadership, with the final title (Generalist or Manager) and salary within the posted range adjusted according to experience and responsibilities.

Recruitment & Onboarding

• Support managers with recruitment, job postings, candidate screening, and background checks.
• Coordinate onboarding and orientation for new hires.
• Keep job descriptions and staff lists organized and current.

Employee Relations & Engagement

• Main contact for staff and managers regarding HR policies, general questions, and problem-solving.
• Guide and support managers in handling disciplinary actions and terminations in line with policies and legal requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality and follow HR policies for employee matters.

Compliance, Policies & Records

• Understand and work in line with all federal and state labor laws and requirements.
• Keep established HR policies and handbook up-to-date, focusing on practical, regular improvements.
• Assist with agency training and compliance reporting.
• Maintain accurate digital personnel and HR records.

Performance Management & Staff Development

• Distribute, collect, and track annual performance reviews for all staff at year-end.
• Offer clear guidance to managers and staff on completing review forms, encouraging fair, thoughtful, and specific feedback.
• Promote ongoing performance conversations and reinforce the importance of regular feedback.
• Provide resources for workplace practices and staff development.

Compensation & Benefits

• Process bi-weekly payroll and manage benefits administration, including enrollments, changes, and terminations.
• Coordinate annual Open Enrollment and communications with benefit brokers.
• Address payroll and benefit questions, and ensure all processes are completed accurately and on time.
• Conduct exit interviews and support staff with post-employment benefit transitions.
• Respond to unemployment and worker’s comp claims.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum 4 years of Human Resources experience, preferably in nonprofits.
• Knowledge of HR laws, regulations, and best practices.

Skills & Attributes

Technical & Analytical

• Strong skills in HR software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to gather and analyze data for decision support.
• Strong writing, verbal, and presentation skills.

Interpersonal & Professional

• Welcoming communicator, able to work well with staff and managers.
• Practice good judgment, professionalism, and adaptability.
• Understanding of power, privilege, and systems of oppression as they relate to the workplace.
• Sensitivity to the needs of youth experiencing homelessness.

Organizational & Confidentiality

• Able to manage multiple tasks, work independently and cross-functionally, and adapt quickly.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality of personnel, financial, legal, and program participant information.

Background Check

All Avenues for Youth employees must pass a background check, including a MN Department of Human Services background study.

Physical Demands