Human Resources Generalist

Department
 

Library Administration - Human Resources

About the Department
 

Widely known as the guardian of one of the largest academic library collections in North America, the University of Chicago Library is redefining its role as a provider of services within an increasingly open global knowledge ecosystem. We value open and equitable access to knowledge, freedom of speech and inquiry, and working in partnership within and beyond the UChicago community. We are creating a working environment that embraces innovation and respect and that celebrates and develops staff.

As part of the University of Chicago, we offer a wide variety of strong benefits and programs to academics and staff. From a choice of comprehensive health plan options and wellness programs, short and long-term disability insurance, continuing education opportunities including educational assistance plans, competitive retirement plans, and paid time off (vacation, personal, and university holidays), we’re committed to providing benefits and a work environment that matters!

Job Summary
 

Reporting to the Director of Library Human Resources, the Human Resources Generalist provides Human Resources. The Human Resources Generalist will serve as the principal support and department contact for Student Employment, staff onboarding, new hire orientation, and offboarding. Additionally, the Human Resources Generalist will maintain and perform department costing allocation and act as the primary HR contact for a small portfolio of Library units, working closely with the Library HR Director to review and determine best practices and strategies of support and guidance.

Responsibilities

• Oversees all student employment for the Library, including partnering with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the full-cycle recruitment and student employment lifecycle is efficient and complies with CBA and University policies. (e.g., Federal Work Study Compliance, assisting the Library HR Director in Student union contract negotiations, grievances, and/or providing consultation on student-employee relations).

• Oversees Other Academic Appointees (OAA) and staff recruitment process of assigned department portfolio, including job postings, candidate screenings, interviews, and offer negotiations.

• Oversees the onboarding and orientation of all Library new hires, ensuring a smooth integration at the library.

• Serves as the initial point of contact for employee inquiries regarding HR policies, procedures, and employee issues, escalating, making recommendations, or consulting with the Library HR Director to resolve the concerns promptly.

• In conjunction with the Office of International Affairs (OIA), acts as the primary contact for international students, staff, and Librarians (OAA – Other Academic Appointees) regarding work authorization, OPT, CPT, tax treaties, and visa requirements and limitations.

• Assists in and occasionally leads the planning of the execution of employee events.

• Counsels employees on benefits and compensation. Coordinates with managers and senior colleagues to determine employee compensation. Analyzes data and prepares charts, graphs, and trend lines for management review with a moderate level of guidance.

• Provides professional support to a unit's employee/labor relations efforts, including handling grievances, disciplinary warnings, and employee complaints.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
 

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

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Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

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Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in related field.

Experience:

• Experience in human resources.

• Experience in a University, clinical or a not-for-profit organization.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Ability to learn and use a range of position-related computer applications.

• Intermediate working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Preferred Competencies

• Ability to handle confidential information with utmost discretion.

• Ability to communicate with clarity, tact and courtesy with staff, faculty, students and others.