Senior HR Specialist
The University of Iowa is hiring a Senior HR Specialist to join our Employee & Labor Relations / Faculty & Staff Disability Services (ELR/FSDS) team within University Human Resources. This position provides consultation and assistance to University of Iowa HR representatives, supervisors, and employees regarding human resource policies, practices, job performance, pay practices, collective bargaining, labor law, and disability management, ensuring alignment with the university’s mission, values, and applicable state and federal laws.
Responsibilities within the Employee and Labor Relations (ELR) function include conducting employment investigations, consultation regarding progressive discipline, interpreting and applying collective bargaining agreements, and resolving grievances. Responsibilities within the Faculty and Staff Disability Services (FSDS) function include managing medical leave of absence requests and workplace accommodation requests, specifically processing and tracking medical documentation and correspondence for leaves under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
This position also provides individual case management for leave and disability matters within assigned areas and assists in developing educational training for University of Iowa supervisors and HR professionals on leave and disability topics.
There is an expectation that the person in this position will maintain effective, civil, and respectful working relationships with the University of Iowa campus community and uphold the University’s commitment to creating welcoming and respectful environments for all.
Specific Job Duties and Tasks
- Establish and provide effective consultative services to UI HR representatives, supervisors and employees regarding employee and labor relations issues and processes.
- Cultivate and expand relationships internally with human resource representatives, managers, employee groups and externally with union representatives that enhance employee and labor relations capability.
- Process FMLA/non-FMLA leaves requests and leads ADA accommodation process for assigned colleges and departments.
- Interpret health information to determine leave of absence and accommodation needs.
- Advise/consult with HR representatives, supervisors and employees regarding employment related problems and disputes, providing consultation and recommendations to support best practices, minimize risk and advance the mission and goals of the University.
- Responsible for guiding day-to-day administration of policies and support application of best practices.
- Develops and delivers technical training on effective employment practices, including employee investigations, performance management and contract administration.
To obtain the full job description including key areas of responsibility, technical competencies, and desirable qualifications, please contact Jade Rogers at jade-o-rogers@uiowa.edu.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience (typically 3 – 5 years) working effectively with complex employment and labor relations issues and/or leave/disability management.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrates extensive knowledge and ability to:
- apply and assure compliance with principles of progressive discipline, policy compliance, collective bargaining agreements in administering all aspects of HR policies and practices or
- administer leave and accommodation request under the Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- monitor compliance of HR policies, standards, and procedures.
- effectively communicate, build relationships, and work with a variety of individuals and groups, in a constructive and collaborative manner.
- manage multiple concurrent objectives, projects, or activities, making effective judgments as to prioritizing and time allocation.
A working knowledge and ability to:
- implement confidential investigations and resolution processes.
- Interpret and take action on the aspects of employment laws that impact employee and labor relations or leave/disability management.
Desirable Qualifications:
- Juris Doctor or Master’s degree in Business Administration or related field.
- Working knowledge of University policies and procedures, includes those covered by the merit system, SEIU, AFSCME, and COGS.
- Working knowledge of relevant employment policies, laws and best practices applicable to a public employer in Iowa.
- HR-related certifications (PHR, SHRM-CP, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, CLMS)
Application Details
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. For questions, contact Jade Rogers at jade-o-rogers@uiowa.edu
Hybrid within Iowa: This position may be eligible for a combination of on-campus and remote work within Iowa after the training period is completed. Work arrangement options will be discussed during the hiring process. Per policy, work arrangements will be reviewed annually and must comply with the remote work program and related policies and employee travel policy when working at a remote location.
Benefits Highlights
Regular salaried position. Pay level 4A. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
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About Iowa
Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.
Equal opportunity employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, or associational preferences.
Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.
