Human Resources Specialist Returnship

At the City of Frederick, we value diversity and the respect, engagement, and productivity an inclusive environment produces. We seek to consistently improve internal and external customer satisfaction, innovate, and expand capability of services, and be a government that practices equality, equity, and fairness. We invite you to bring your skills, abilities, and knowledge to The City of Frederick and be a valued addition to a workforce that we know is our greatest asset.

Frederick is a progressive, richly diverse, and authentically charming city. Recognized as one of the best places to live in Maryland, Frederick is surrounded by mountain views and centrally located about 45 miles north of Washington D.C. and 45 miles west of Baltimore, MD.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Human Resources Specialist position is part of a unique 6-month returnship opportunity for individuals looking to re-enter the workforce. This position presents an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to key Human Resources initiatives while gaining exposure to a broad range of HR functions within a local government setting. This role performs professional human resources work as assigned by the Director of Human Resources. This includes but is not limited to assisting with the coordination and execution of a comprehensive employee handbook review project, providing support in engagement activities, and a broad range of human resources functions. This position requires mostly daytime availability with occasional evening availability to attend events. This is a part time position, up to 20 hours per week for a period of 6 months.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supports the Director of Human Resources in the coordination and execution of a comprehensive Policies and Procedures (employee handbook) review project.
• Assists with the development and administration of employee surveys and focus groups, including scheduling, facilitation support, and documentation of feedback.
• Compiles, organizes, and analyzes employee input and survey data to identify trends, themes, and areas of policy improvement.
• Assists with researching best practices, benchmarking, and legal considerations related to HR policies and procedures.
• Supports the revision of the Policies and Procedures document, including preparation of redlined and clean versions of policy updates.
• Attends internal meetings and stakeholder discussions related to policy development; prepares meeting notes, summaries, and follow-up materials.
• Participates in recruiting activities, including sitting in on interviews and assisting with candidate coordination as needed.
• Provides support for engagement initiatives and events, including but not limited to the employee picnic, National Night Out, and job fairs.
• Assists with general Human Resources functions and special projects as assigned, gaining exposure to a variety of Human Resources and local government disciplines.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

About the Returnship Program: Our returnship program provides a supportive environment where returnees can refresh their skills, gain new experiences, and rebuild their professional network. The 6-month program offers a structured transition back into the workforce with the potential for long-term employment opportunities upon successful completion.

QUALIFICATIONS:To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• A gap in employment of at least six (6) months is required to be part of the returnship program.
• An understanding of the current practices and ideas in the field of human resources management.
• Experience working with data analysis, research, policy, or public-sector operations is helpful.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATES AND/OR LICENSES:

• Vehicle Operator's license with satisfactory driving record that meets insurability standards of the City's insurance carrier is required. The employee must maintain the license for the duration of their employment.

REQUIRED SKILLS (Communication/Language; Mathematical; Computer; etc.):

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to translate data into actionable insights.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Computer proficiency, especially with Microsoft Word.
• Strong writing and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

OTHER DESIRABLES:

• Prior human resources policy development and analysis experience.
• Familiarity with human resources and/or local government service delivery.
• Comfort preparing professional-level writing, briefings, or presentations.
• Human Resources professional designation such as SHRM-CP or PHR a plus.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the incumbent to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this role, the employee is frequently required to remain in a stationary position for long periods of time. The employee is frequently required to read and comprehend written material and make inferences from the contents. This position requires continuous or repetitive arm-hand movements to utilize a computer keyboard to enter and retrieve data. The employee is required to frequently operate a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer. Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken word and for conveying details or important instructions to others accurately and quickly either face to face, and on the telephone. Hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels. Visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities. The employee may be required to push, pull, lift, and/or carry up to 10 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/CONDITION:The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work is generally performed indoors. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately quiet.

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