HR Specialist - Office of Human Resources

The Office of Human Resources at Carnegie Mellon University is committed to supporting faculty, students, and staff members’ success through every stage of their employment. We advance the university’s strategic plan by driving efficient, effective, and nimble business practices that meet the needs of our evolving global community. Our mission is to recruit and retain exceptional people at all levels while encouraging a culture of inclusion, collaboration, and professional growth.

Reporting to the Manager of HR Faculty and Staff Services, the Human Resources Specialist plays a key role in supporting faculty and staff throughout the onboarding lifecycle. This position partners closely with new hires to guide them through onboarding requirements, troubleshoot issues, and ensure timely and accurate completion of employment documentation, including the Form I-9.

The HR Specialist is responsible for processing and approving Workday transactions, resolving system-related inquiries, and escalating complex matters to the appropriate Centers of Expertise within the Office of Human Resources as needed.

Your core responsibilities will include:

• Reviewing, approving, and entering faculty and staff employment transactions in Workday, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

• Generating and analyzing Workday reports to monitor Form I-9 completion and validate employee data.

• Communicating with new hires and departments regarding Form I-9 requirements, tracking completion and following up as needed.

• Serving as a primary point of contact for HR and Workday-related questions, providing timely guidance and support.

• Troubleshooting system issues and employee inquiries, resolving cases within CMU’s ticketing system (ServiceNow).

• Coordinating and supporting weekly onboarding sessions for newly hired employees, including managing communications, reminders, and required onboarding tasks.

• Other duties as assigned.

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within the Office of Human Resources. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

You should demonstrate:

• Excellent customer service and communication skills as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

• Effective presentation skills (in a group setting) of onboarding/payroll/HR/benefit information during weekly onboarding sessions.

• Ability to effectively prioritize and manage a high volume of transactions and activities within a fast-paced environment.

• Track record of success in developing and maintaining constructive and cooperative working relationships with diverse stakeholders and colleagues.

• Critical thinking skills to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

• Active listening skills: giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made.

• High attention to detail, an ability to multitask, and the capability to maintain discretion and confidentiality.

• Advanced computer skills, particularly with Microsoft Office Suite.

• Self-motivation and able to take initiative.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, human resources, or related field required.

• Experience: One to three years of relevant human resources experience and customer service experience required.

A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired may be considered.

Preferred experience:

• Experience with Workday or related HRIS systems is highly desired.

• Experience handling confidential information.

• Prior higher-education experience is a plus.

• Understanding of I-9 requirements and processing.

• Prior health & welfare benefit plans experience is helpful but not necessary.

• ServiceNow (ticketing system) is a plus.

Requirements:

• Successful pre-employment background check.

Additional Information:

• This is a full-time (37.5 hours) position based in Pittsburgh, PA.

• Work Posture: This opportunity is operating on a hybrid work schedule, with an on-campus/in-office presence of 3 days a week, 2 days remote (Pittsburgh, PA-based) through December 31, 2026.

• Sponsorship: Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity. Carnegie Mellon is not a qualifying employer for the STEM OPT benefit: only the 12-month OPT may be used to work at Carnegie Mellon.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits , take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays , and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access , and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page .

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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More Information:

• Please visit “ Why Carnegie Mellon ” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.

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• Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran .

• Statement of Assurance