Human Resources Generalist - Administrative and Operational Support - Hybrid Chicago Loop Office

NORC at the University of Chicago is seeking an HR Generalist to join the NORC People team in our Chicago Loop office. This entry-level position provides foundational support across a broad range of human resources functions, ensuring the smooth operation of HR processes and programs.

Responsibilities

• Assist in coordinating job postings across internal and external platforms
• Assist in scheduling interviews and communicating with candidates throughout the hiring process
• Assist with the applicant tracking system to help ensure compliance with hiring procedures
• Assist in preparing onboarding materials and coordinating orientation sessions
• Ensure completion of required documentation and system setup for new hires
• Serve as a point of contact for new employees during their transition
• Collaborate with IT and facilities to ensure readiness for new team members
• Provide logistical and administrative support for employee engagement initiatives
• Assist in coordinating training sessions, workshops, and learning events
• Support performance management cycles by tracking deadlines and communications
• Help gather feedback and data to improve HR programs and initiatives
• Responsible for processing unemployment claims
• Assist employees with benefits enrollment and changes
• Respond to routine inquiries regarding health, retirement, and wellness benefits
• Liaise with benefit vendors to resolve issues and ensure timely service
• Help maintain benefits documentation and compliance records
• Update and maintain employee records in HRIS and other databases
• Ensure accuracy, confidentiality, and integrity of personnel data
• Generate reports and assist with audits and compliance reviews
• Support data entry and tracking for HR metrics and analytics
• Provide administrative support for employee relations cases and investigations
• Assist in interpreting HR policies and procedures for staff

Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
• 1 year of relevant HR work experience
• Foundational understanding of HR principles, employment laws, and organizational policies
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact effectively across all levels of the organization
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and familiarity with HRIS or other HR software platforms
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to be onsite at least 3 days a week
• Qualified applicants must be eligible to work in the U.S. We regret that we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position

Benefits

• Generously subsidized health insurance, effective on the first day of employment
• Dental and vision insurance
• A defined contribution retirement program, along with a separate voluntary 403(b) retirement program
• Group life insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance
• Benefits that promote work/life balance, including generous paid time off, holidays; paid parental leave, bereavement leave, tuition assistance, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

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