Human Resources Generalist

Who We Are

The Learning Policy Institute (LPI) is a national organization that conducts and communicates independent, high-quality research to shape education policies and improve learning for each and every child. Nonprofit and nonpartisan, LPI connects policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels with the evidence, ideas, and actions needed to strengthen the pre-k to grade 12 education system and address the complex realities facing public schools and their communities. Working with policymakers, researchers, educators, community groups, and others who care about improving public schools, the Institute advances evidence-based policies that support empowering and equitable learning for all children.

The Position

LPI seeks a full-time Human Resources Generalist to join its team of research, policy, communication, and operations staff in advancing the organization’s mission to make education equitable for all children. This position may be based in either our Palo Alto, CA, or Washington, DC, office.

Reporting to the Chief Financial and Administrative Officer and as a member of the Finance and Operations team, this role’s primary responsibilities are to guide and manage the overall Human Resources services, policies, and programs for the organization.

Major Responsibilities

• Reviews, tracks, and documents compliance with mandatory and non-mandatory training, consensus reviews, and professional development. This may include safety training, anti-harassment training, etc.
• Works with the HR Associate and hiring leads to recruit, interview, and facilitate the hiring of qualified job applicants for open positions.
• Conducts or acquires background checks and employee eligibility verifications (I-9).
• Leads HR orientation and coordinates with HR Associate on new hire orientation and onboarding.
• Manages the LPI Internship Program.
• Performs routine tasks required to administer and execute human resource programs including but not limited to compensation, benefits, and leave; disciplinary matters; disputes and investigations; performance and talent management; occupational health and safety; and training and development.
• Handles employment-related inquiries from applicants, employees, and supervisors, referring complex and/or sensitive matters to the appropriate staff.
• Works with Accounting Manager to process semi-monthly payroll.
• Attends and participates in employee disciplinary meetings, terminations, and investigations.
• Maintains compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, and recommended best practices; reviews policies and practices to maintain compliance. Some examples include:
  • Managing Conflict of Interest reporting
  • Workers Comp Audit
  • Anti-Harassment training
  • HR legal updates
  • Tracking lobbying hours
  • Time/attendance administration
• Maintains knowledge of trends, best practices, regulatory changes, and new technologies in human resources, talent management, and employment law.
• Leads internal ad hoc committees related to work life, culture, best practices, etc.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required.
• Four to five years of human resource management experience preferred.
• HR certification preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage external vendors.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Thorough knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn the organization’s HRIS system (Paychex Flex)
• Must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer.

Dispositions

• Passion for ensuring that all children receive empowering and equitable learning, especially historically underserved students.
• Self-starter mentality and the ability to both work independently and foster collaborative working relationships, and to work well in a team-setting.
• A demonstrated commitment to excellence and equity.
• Ability to execute and exhibit good judgment.
• An optimistic outlook and a flexible, innovative nature.

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references here. Candidates invited to continue through the interview process will be asked to complete a job-related task/performance assessment at that time.