Human Resources Employment Specialist

Ensured Consideration Date: June 17, 2026

Michigan Technological University is an R1 technological research university founded in 1885 in Houghton. Our rural campus is situated just miles from Lake Superior in Michigan's scenic Upper Peninsula and is home to nearly 7,500 students from more than 60 countries around the world. Consistently ranked among the best universities in the country for return on investment, Michigan’s flagship technological university offers more than 185 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Research focus areas include defense, health, energy, automotive, environment, and aerospace.

The area’s waters, forests, and snowfall support year-round recreation, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, and paddling. The University is an integral part of the region, supported by a friendly and welcoming community that takes pride in being a true college town. We embrace our size, climate, sense of adventure, and originality.

Summary

This position manages the full employee life cycle, from recruiting and onboarding to mid-employment service, providing essential support to managers, applicants, and current employees.

Responsibilities and Essential Duties

1. Strategically consult with hiring managers on talent acquisition needs, including developing effective job descriptions, postings, and comprehensive recruitment strategies to attract top-tier talent.
2. Administer the full recruitment and staffing process, ensuring compliance with all labor laws, labor agreements, regulations, and University goals while maintaining active engagement with the applicant pool.
3. Efficiently execute all transactional staffing activities, including processing new hire paperwork, conducting orientations, and maintaining accurate personnel files.
4. Participate in the review and optimize HR workflows and processes—including hiring, onboarding, offboarding, transfers, promotions, and separations—through collaboration with University stakeholders.
5. Interpret, explain, and update University HR policies, procedures, and legal standards, acting as a primary consultant and resource for managers and staff on employment queries and best practices.
6. Assist with developing and delivering effective training to University stakeholders and regularly review and update published employment resources for managers.
7. Promote continuous improvement strategies within daily work and actively engage in University initiatives, while applying all safety-related knowledge and practices.

Required Education, Certifications, Licensures

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or other related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and abilities can be acquired.

Required Experience

Experience in Human Resources, staffing or recruiting

Desirable Education and/or Experience

SHRM or PHR certification preferred
Lean Six Sigma training preferred
Experience working in higher education Human Resources