Human Resources Specialist - City of Ellsworth

Start Date: July 01, 2024 | End Date: September 30, 2024
County: Hancock County
Job Type: Human Resources

Job Title: Human Resources Specialist

Location: City of Ellsworth, Maine

Department: Human Resources

Reports To: Human Resources Manager

Job Summary:

The City of Ellsworth seeks an enthusiastic and team-oriented Human Resources Specialist to support our dedicated workforce and maintain our commitment to excellence in public service. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring a productive and positive work environment. The Human Resources Specialist will assist with various HR functions, from recruitment and onboarding to employee relations and payroll processing. 

Key Responsibilities

• Recruitment and Staffing:
• Manage recruitment cycle from job posting to onboarding, ensuring a seamless candidate experience.
• Conduct interviews, evaluate applicants, and make hiring recommendations.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive community internship program tailored to the needs of the City, fostering hands-on learning experiences for aspiring professionals.

·  Employee Relations:

• Serve as a point of contact for employee inquiries and concerns.
• Mediate and resolve workplace conflicts and issues.
• Promote a positive work environment and ensure compliance with company policies.

·  Compensation and Benefits:

• Administer employee compensation and benefits programs. Accurately process weekly payroll.
• Conduct market research to ensure competitive salary structures.
• Assist employees with benefits enrollment and provide guidance on available options.

·  Training and Development:

• Identify training needs and develop programs to enhance employee skills and performance.
• Organize and facilitate training sessions, workshops, and seminars.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of training programs and make improvements as needed.
• Develop and manage the city's intern program

·  Compliance and Policy Management:

• Ensure company compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws and regulations.
• Develop, update, and enforce HR policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records and documentation.

·  Performance Management:

• Implement and oversee performance appraisal systems.
• Provide guidance to managers and employees on performance improvement plans.
• Monitor and document employee performance and development.

·  HR Metrics and Reporting:

• Collect and analyze HR data to support decision-making and strategic planning.
• Prepare and present reports on HR metrics such as turnover rates, recruitment metrics, and employee satisfaction.
• Conduct a variety of administrative and clerical tasks including weekly and monthly reporting across various platforms.

·  HR Systems and Technology:

• Manage and maintain HR information systems (HRIS).
• Ensure data integrity and confidentiality within HR systems.
• Utilize HR technology to streamline processes and improve efficiency.

·  Employee Engagement:

• Develop and implement programs to enhance employee engagement and retention.
• Conduct employee surveys and analyze feedback to improve workplace satisfaction.
• Organize employee recognition and appreciation initiatives.

·  Strategic HR Planning:

• Collaborate with management to align HR strategies with City goals.
• Participate in organizational planning and development initiatives.
• Provide HR expertise and support to management and employees.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Degree in human resources, business administration or a closely related field.
• Two years of progressive experience in human resources, workforce management, or business administration.
• Knowledge of compensation practices, labor negotiations, employee relations, performance management, and federal and state employment laws.
• Any equivalent combination of education and work experience will be considered.

Skills:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• High level of integrity, reliability, and professionalism.

Salary:

$50,000-$65,000. The City of Ellsworth offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employees in both their professional and personal lives.  

Work-Life Balance:

• • Generous paid time off. Employees can earn up to 280 hours of paid time off per year! Carry over option up to 480 hours.
  • 12 paid holidays per year.

Retirement Options:

• • Retirement savings plan with City matching contributions, to help employees plan for a secure future. Additional option to be part of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MPERS).

Career Development:

• • Opportunities for professional growth through training programs and workshops.
  • Tuition reimbursement for continued education, empowering employees to further develop their skills and knowledge.

Financial Security:

• • Short Term Disability to cover non-work related injuries or illnesses for up to 52 weeks per year.
  • Life Insurance options for employees and dependents.

Health and Wellness:

• • Competitive and affordable health insurance plans including medical and dental coverage to ensure employees and their families stay healthy.
  • Wellness program to support our employee’s physical and mental well-being.
  • Employee Assistance Program.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume. Preference will be given to those who apply within the first 21 days of opening the application.

The City of Ellsworth is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

About the City of Ellsworth

Nestled in the heart if Downeast Maine, the city of Ellsworth is a professional, recreational, cultural, and retail services hub for nearly 60,000 people in the Hancock and Washington County areas. With its historically preserved downtown, scenic landscapes, including the Union River, three lakes, and marina along its striking Maine coastline, Ellsworth is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Ellsworth is not just a gateway to the stunning Acadia National Park, but a destination in its own right, offering residents and visitors a unique blend of past and present. Incorporated in 1800 and named after Oliver Ellsworth, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitutional Convention, this early American city boasts a quality of life and place in community that is unmatched in Maine. The city is rich with recreational and cultural opportunities, offering a high standard of living, an affordable cost of living, and a workforce that is both skilled and productive. It is one of the fastest growing cities in Maine, provides competitive tax incentives and pre-permitted “shovel-ready” land with established public infrastructure. Our dedicated staff offers comprehensive support for the personal and business needs of our community.  Find out more about our great city at discoverellsworth.com.