Human Resources Specialist

Position Title: Human Resources Specialist
Reports To: Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)
Location: Memphis, TN

About Southern Avenue Charter School

Southern Avenue Charter School is a tuition-free, public charter school serving approximately 300–400 scholars in grades K–5 in Memphis, Tennessee. We are committed to fostering a safe, nurturing, and academically rigorous environment where every child is empowered to achieve their fullest potential.

Position Summary

The Human Resources Specialist supports the CHRO in managing the daily operations of the Human Resources Department. This role provides expertise in HR compliance, employee relations, recruitment, onboarding, benefits administration, and HR record keeping. The HR Specialist helps ensure that Southern Avenue Charter School attracts, retains, and supports high-quality staff to deliver exceptional educational outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Support full-cycle recruitment: post job openings, screen applications, coordinate interviews, and communicate with candidates.

• Facilitate new hire onboarding, including background checks, I-9 verification, and benefits enrollment.

• Assist with employee relations matters, helping resolve staff questions, concerns, and conflicts in a timely, confidential manner.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date personnel files and HRIS records in compliance with state and federal laws.

• Support the administration of employee benefits programs, open enrollment, and leave requests (FMLA, personal leave, etc.).

• Coordinate and track required staff trainings, certifications, and licensure renewals.

• Prepare reports and maintain HR data to support audits, compliance, and reporting requirements.

• Support performance management processes, including probationary reviews and annual evaluations.

• Assist with the development and implementation of HR policies and procedures aligned with the school’s mission and legal requirements.

• Provide general administrative support for the HR department as needed.

• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in human resources or a related administrative role; school or nonprofit experience preferred.

• Knowledge of HR best practices and employment laws (FMLA, ADA, FLSA, etc.).

• Proficiency with HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

• Strong organizational skills with keen attention to detail and accuracy.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to build positive relationships with diverse staff.

• High level of integrity, discretion, and ability to handle confidential information.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced school environment.

• HR certification (PHR, SHRM-CP) is a plus.

Working Conditions

• This position is based on-site at Southern Avenue Charter School.

• Occasional evenings or weekends may be required for recruitment events or school activities.