HR Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) that was founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The organization is dedicated to responding to the world's most severe humanitarian crises, providing essential services to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With operations in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, the IRC employs a diverse workforce committed to making a lasting impact by helping millions of people regain control over their lives and strengthen their communities. The IRC's mission is to serve as a force for humanity, and it actively seeks solutions-driven and passionate individuals to join its efforts in creating a better future for those in need.

Job Overview:
The HR Associate plays a crucial role within the HR team at the IRC's I-Hub, guiding candidates through the new hire experience and facilitating the pre-employment and onboarding processes. This position requires a strong focus on customer service, ensuring that new hires have a seamless transition into the organization. The HR Associate will collaborate closely with Recruiting Associates, HR Partners, HR Focal Points, and hiring managers to complete various assignments and tasks, including data entry and maintaining accurate documentation. The Onboarding team serves as the primary point of contact for new hires after they accept their offers, and the HR Associate must strive to make the onboarding experience as smooth as possible while adhering to local labor practices. This role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, from onboarding and offboarding to benefits administration and leave management, all aimed at supporting the overall HR function within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The HR Associate's duties and responsibilities include leading the full onboarding process, which involves pre-arrival communication, orientation scheduling, documentation collection, and system setup. The Associate will proactively engage with candidates post-offer acceptance, track onboarding tasks, and ensure a positive experience through effective use of HR systems such as Workday and Cornerstone. Responsibilities also include providing onboarding kits, facilitating introductions to teams, and ensuring that new staff are technically and administratively prepared for their roles. The HR Associate will manage exit processes, including terminal dues processing and final clearance in compliance with Kenyan labor law. Additionally, the role involves gathering and filing paperwork related to employee benefits, ensuring timely enrollment and termination from benefits programs, and liaising with insurance providers. The Associate will oversee leave management, providing guidance to staff on various leave types, auditing leave balances, and coordinating with payroll. Other responsibilities include conducting exit interviews, maintaining HR records, and preparing reports on HR metrics.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the HR Associate position must possess a strong background in human resources, with at least three years of relevant experience. A customer service-oriented mindset is essential, along with demonstrated skills in active listening and problem-solving. Familiarity with HR concepts, employment laws, and regulations is advantageous. The ideal candidate should exhibit a high level of accountability, possess strong interpersonal skills, and be an effective communicator. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, is required, along with the ability to handle confidential information sensitively. Organizational skills and attention to detail are crucial, as is the ability to adapt to shifting priorities. Experience with HRIS systems, particularly Workday and Cornerstone, is a plus.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in Human Resource Management or a related field from a recognized institution is required for this position. Additionally, candidates should hold membership in the Institute of Human Resource Management in good standing, which demonstrates their commitment to the profession and adherence to industry standards.

Experience:
The HR Associate position requires a minimum of three years of experience in human resources, with a strong emphasis on customer service. Candidates should have a proven track record of effectively managing HR processes and demonstrating a solid understanding of employment laws and regulations. Experience in a customer service environment is highly valued, as the role necessitates strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust with employees and external parties.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the organization. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in local dialects or languages relevant to the communities served by the IRC.

Additional Notes:
The HR Associate position is likely to be full-time, with a focus on supporting the HR functions within the IRC's I-Hub. The role may involve working closely with international teams and could include opportunities for professional development and growth within the organization. Compensation and benefits details are not specified in the job description, but candidates can expect a competitive package aligned with industry standards.