Human Resources Specialist

About The Company

The California Institute of Applied Technology (CIAT) is a dynamic and innovative educational institution dedicated to fostering student success through high-quality education and comprehensive support services. With campuses in San Diego, CA, and Albuquerque, NM, CIAT emphasizes a culture of integrity, excellence, and inclusivity. The institute values lifelong learning, professional development, and fostering a supportive environment that respects diversity and promotes growth. Committed to maintaining the highest standards of compliance and operational efficiency, CIAT strives to create a positive impact in the communities it serves by preparing students for meaningful careers and lifelong achievement.

About The Role

The HR Specialist at CIAT is a vital member of the People & Culture team, responsible for supporting various human resources functions to ensure a seamless and compliant employee experience. This full-time, remote position requires working within California, Florida, or New Mexico and involves managing onboarding, benefits administration, payroll, leave of absence processes, and HR compliance. The HR Specialist serves as a subject matter expert, providing guidance and support to employees and management alike. This role plays a key part in maintaining data accuracy, fostering employee engagement, and ensuring adherence to federal, state, and local employment laws. The position reports directly to the VP of People & Culture and is instrumental in executing HR initiatives that align with CIAT’s mission, values, and strategic goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (preferred)
• HR certifications such as PHR, SHRM-CP, or equivalent (preferred)
• 2-3 years of progressive HR experience, demonstrating expertise in at least two core HR functions
• Experience with HRIS systems such as Paylocity and/or Employee Navigator (a plus)
• Proficient knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and trends
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Self-motivated with a high work ethic and integrity
• Ability to handle sensitive information confidentially
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Project)
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and work outside of standard hours when necessary

Responsibilities

• Implement and enhance onboarding processes to ensure a positive new hire experience, compliance, and cultural integration
• Coordinate start dates, onboarding logistics, and prepare all new hire documentation including I-9s, background checks, transcripts, and certifications
• Conduct new hire orientations and serve as a point of contact for onboarding-related inquiries
• Serve as the primary contact for employee benefits, processing enrollments, life events, terminations, and system updates in HRIS and vendor platforms
• Monitor and audit benefit deductions, reconcile invoices, and resolve discrepancies with vendors and payroll
• Support annual open enrollment activities, including communication, system updates, and vendor coordination
• Oversee timekeeping systems, review employee timecards, and ensure accuracy and compliance with labor laws
• Manage leave of absence requests, track usage, and coordinate return-to-work processes in compliance with applicable regulations
• Maintain accurate HR records, ensure data confidentiality, and support compliance with internal and external policies
• Assist with employee exit processes, including final pay, benefits communication, and data analysis
• Track and coordinate performance reviews, training certifications, and HR metrics to support strategic initiatives
• Support employee engagement programs, wellness initiatives, and team-building activities
• Lead or assist with special HR projects and initiatives aligned with CIAT’s values and strategic goals
• Ensure adherence to all federal, state, accreditation, and institutional compliance requirements

Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay ranging from $27.00 to $30.00 based on experience and qualifications
• Remote work flexibility within approved locations
• Opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization committed to education and student success
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and professional growth
• Access to professional development and training opportunities
• Participation in wellness and employee engagement programs
• Supportive team culture emphasizing integrity, excellence, and customer service

Equal Opportunity

California Institute of Applied Technology is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees and applicants are treated with dignity and respect. We prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. All employment decisions are made based on merit, qualifications, and business needs.

Key skills/competency

• Human Resources
• Onboarding
• Benefits Administration
• Payroll
• HR Compliance
• HRIS Systems
• Employment Law
• Employee Engagement
• Performance Management
• Talent Acquisition