Human Resources Assistant

About the Role

Helen Keller Services (HKS) is seeking a Human Resources Assistant to join the Helen Keller National Center (HKNC) team. This full-time, in-person position is based out of the Training Building in Sands Point, NY. The role involves performing administrative tasks to support the Human Resources department.

Rate of Pay: $45-50k annually

Key Responsibilities

• Maintains accurate and up-to-date human resource files, records, and documentation.
• Answers frequently asked questions from applicants and employees relative to standard policies, benefits, and hiring processes; refers more complex questions to senior-level HR staff.
• Conducts periodic audits of personnel and HR files to identify missing, expired, incomplete, or improperly filed documentation; prepares follow-up lists and updates records.
• Performs pre-employment and routine background checks, including education verification, reference checks, and driving record checks for new hires.
• Assists with the scheduling of new hire and companywide orientation, meetings, and HR Trainings, including setting up interpreting support, calendar requests, reminders, and attendance tracking.
• Performs data entry in ADP/HRIS system and compiles/runs routine reports.
• Assists with HKNC Recruitment efforts, including updating job descriptions, posting positions, and identifying alternative job posting sites.
• Maintains compliance records such as annual physicals, PPD’s, OMIG, and OIG checks.
• Assigns required training through the HR training platform, monitors completion, sends reminders, and prepares status reports for HR follow-up (e.g., harassment, safe driving, safety).
• Assists with planning and execution of special events such as benefits enrollment, wellness meetings, and employee recognition events.
• Assists with onboarding and offboarding administration, including preparing packets, collecting forms, updating checklists, coordinating notifications, scheduling and conducting new hire orientation, and filing final documentation.
• Travel to other HKS site locations (Hempstead, Sands Point, Islandia) may be required.
• Responsible for other duties as assigned or requested by supervisor/Director.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) or related software.
• Proficient with or the ability to quickly learn payroll management, human resource information system (HRIS), and similar computer applications.
• Ability to coordinate interpreters and accessible meeting logistics in a timely and organized manner.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in a related field required.
• Prior related office experience required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to manage sensitive and confidential situations with tact, professionalism, and diplomacy.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Prior administrative or office experience required.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism, tact, and discretion.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines and follow-up items.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Zoom) is preferred.
• Proficiency with, or ability to quickly learn, ADP, HRIS, applicant tracking, learning-management, and similar business systems is preferred.
• An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
• A Bachelor’s degree is preferred.
• Experience supporting Human Resources is strongly preferred.