Senior Human Resources Specialist

This position provides comprehensive HR support across the employee lifecycle, including employee relations, recruitment, compliance, benefits administration, and performance management. This role partners closely with the campus community to ensure accurate, consistent, and employee-focused HR practices, while contributing to day-to-day operations and continuous improvement initiatives. What You’ll Do Partner with leaders on employee relations, performance, and workplace concerns Lead recruitment efforts and support hiring strategies, including faculty searches Ensure compliance with employment laws and university policies Support benefits, leave administration, and HR operations Assist with training initiatives and employee development programs Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Management, or a related field, and 3–5 years of HR experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices Experience handling sensitive employee matters with sound judgment A collaborative, service-oriented approach High level of confidentiality and trust, as you will regularly handle sensitive employee information and serve as a discreet, reliable advisor to both leadership and staff. Our Benefits: Supporting You Every Step of the Way We believe in taking care of our employees, which is why we offer a competitive benefits package that goes above and beyond. Here’s how we support your health, happiness, and future: Comprehensive Health Coverage : Medical, dental, and vision insurance to ensure you and your family stay healthy. Savings for Health & Dependent Care : Flexible savings options to manage healthcare and dependent care costs. Financial Protection : Life, AD&D, and disability insurance for peace of mind when life throws you a curveball. Retirement Security : 403(b) plan with employer contributions to help you build a secure future. Personal Support : Access to our Employee Assistance Program, offering resources for both personal and professional needs. Education Benefits : Tuition remission for full-time and part-time employees, their spouses, and dependents. We offer tuition remission both at Rockford University and other partnering colleges through a tuition exchange. Work-Life Balance : Generous paid time off to help you recharge and spend quality time with loved ones. Time off includes: 15+ paid holidays annually, Summer hours (June–July) with Mondays off, Generous vacation starting at 15 days/year, increasing with service, Monthly sick accrual (12 days per year), 1 personal day + 2 paid community service days each year If you’re seeking a role where you can build your experience, expand your skill set, and grow within a supportive team, all while being part of a vibrant, mission-driven campus community, we encourage you to apply. Please submit resume, cover letter indicating salary requirements, and list of three professional references to HumanResources@rockford.edu . Review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. This fulltime, exempt opportunity offers an annual salary of $58,000 . At Rockford University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that values a well-rounded workforce and community. We welcome candidates who, through their professional experience, contribute to excellence in their work and enhance our institutional mission. Posted: 2026-05-14