Join a Culture of Excellence and Collaboration at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine
Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine is internationally recognized as a leader in public health, biomedical research, animal medicine, and veterinary medical education. As a part of this esteemed institution, the College's Office of Human Resources partners closely with academic leaders, faculty, people leaders, and staff to support the mission of advancing animal and human health. We are now seeking an experienced and skilled HR Associate to join our team in a hybrid work arrangement.
About the Role
The HR Associate will play a vital role in creating and maintaining a welcoming and engaging climate while working independently to support the full spectrum of academic and non-academic HR activities in the College of Veterinary Medicine. This position will serve as the first point of HR contact for assigned departments/units and will be responsible for providing high-quality customer service, interpreting HR policies, and developing resources and tools to aid human resource management.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with Administrative Managers, People Leaders, and Department Chairs to support various aspects of human resources services, including recruitment and selection support for staff and non-faculty academics, leaves administration, transactions processing, maintenance of personnel files, and tracking of appointments and promotions.
- Serve as the first point of contact for information on HR processes and HR policy interpretation, liaise with University HR, and subject matter experts as needed.
- Handle straightforward cases requiring policy interpretation, utilizing judgment, and referring complex cases to the Human Resources Business Partner.
- Develop resources and tools to aid human resource management and ensure high-quality customer service.
- Partner with other HR team members to provide administrative and project support for the HR office.
- Exercise a high degree of confidentiality, initiative, and judgment while providing HR support to the HR Director, HR Business Partners, and assigned departments/units.
Success Factors
To excel in this HR Associate role, you will need to demonstrate a strong foundation in human resources, with a clear understanding of HR processes and policies. You will act as a trusted partner to CVM faculty and staff, demonstrating high levels of customer service and the ability to handle confidential and sensitive matters with professionalism and discretion. The key success factors for this role include:
- Collaboration and Communication: Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential for interpreting and conveying policy effectively and ensuring open, honest dialogue across all interactions.
- Adaptability and Initiative: The ability to pivot quickly, handle unexpected events with grace, and proactively take on responsibilities that benefit the entire team.
- Attention to Detail and Continuous Improvement: Upholding a high standard of accuracy and precision in all HR activities, including transactions and documentation, and seeking feedback and implementing improvements.
- Relationship Building and Trust: Establishing and maintaining trust with team members and partners across the college, requiring a balance of independence, reliability, and sound judgment.
- High-Quality Customer Service: Approaching each interaction with a service-oriented mindset, exceeding expectations, and anticipating the needs of both internal and external clients.
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Applying HR knowledge to navigate complex scenarios, interpret policies, and make informed decisions independently.
What We Need
To be considered for this role, you will need to submit a cover letter and resume outlining your interest and how your experience and goals align with the potential for mutual success in the role. The essential qualifications for this position include:
- Associate's degree with 4 to 6 years related experience in human resources or related area, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Solid understanding and application of HR "body of knowledge" (SHRM) and all applicable HR laws at the local, State, and Federal level.
- Proven ability to deliver high-quality customer service involving a proactive approach as well as anticipating the needs of the customer.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and to handle sensitive information with tact and discretion.
- Strong ability to communicate information and ideas clearly and effectively both in writing and verbally.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with varied audiences at all levels of the organization.
- Ability to effectively manage multiple competing deadlines, assignments, and projects in a proactive, solution-oriented manner.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, use sound judgment in decision-making, attention to detail, and contribute to the development of a highly successful, team-oriented work environment.
- Demonstrated experience with HRIS systems (e.g., Workday), office productivity software (e.g., MS Office), and use of advanced platforms to develop products to meet business needs.
While not required, the following qualifications are preferred:
- Bachelor's Degree in ILR or related field with 2-4 years related experience.
- PHR or SPHR certification.
- Familiarity with Cornell's human resource and payroll policies.
Rewards and Benefits
This position is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement, with the possibility of working remotely 1 day per week and on-campus 4 days per week, after the initial onboarding period. Cornell University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health care options
- Generous retirement contributions
- Access to wellness programs
- Employee discounts with local and national retail brands
- Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program
- Tuition aid for external education
- Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program
- Health and personal leave, three weeks of vacation, and 13 holidays
Company Culture and Values
Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement. We value diversity, equity, inclusion, anti-racism, and wellbeing, and we are committed to creating a workplace that is welcoming and inclusive to all.
Conclusion
If you are a motivated and experienced HR professional looking to join a dynamic and inclusive team, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As an HR Associate at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, you will have the chance to make a meaningful contribution to the university's mission while developing your skills and expertise in a hybrid work arrangement. We look forward to reviewing your application!
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