HR Generalist I/II - 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 Supervisor Services, you will perform HR-related duties at a professional level and work closely with the HR Business Partner(s) to support the College of Engineering and Cyert Center for Early Education. In this role, you will collaborate on a broad range of HR activities—from onboarding and employee engagement to process improvement and organizational development, helping to ensure a seamless and positive employee experience.

Are you energized by the prospect of contributing to transformative change in a dynamic and challenging environment? If so, this is an exciting opportunity to join our team as we continue a multi-year initiative to refine HR systems, processes, and services.

Your core responsibilities will include:

• Entering HR transactions into Workday on a regular basis, approving Workday transactions, and serving as a subject matter expert in Workday business processes.

• Collaborate on HR projects and initiatives

• Working closely with the assigned HR Business Partner and other HR and campus partners to assist with:

  • Workforce Planning: assisting HR Business Partner in gathering information and data, ensuring systems accurately reflect open position data, supervisory organization data, etc.

  • Performance Management: monitoring completion of provisional period and annual performance reviews, providing general direction and assisting with routine questions on performance review processes/tools, running reports, and assisting with tracking progress, may also assist with training and communications.

  • Off-boarding: assisting with the separation and exit interview process;

  • Recruitment: assist with submitting position/job requisition requests, preparation of offer letters, submission of hires, etc.

  • Employee Relations: interpreting and providing guidance on policies and procedures, making recommendations for appropriate application of policies/exceptions, preparing basic disciplinary letters for the HR Business Partner

• Acting as a liaison with other units and working closely with HR colleagues in support of assigned client areas.

• Researching and gathering background information, preparing reports, conducting audits, analyzing, and providing sound recommendations to departments and HR Business Partners.

• Actively engaging in the implementation of the OHR’s strategic plan and continuous improvement initiatives.

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:

• Strong knowledge of HR practices and related laws and regulations;

• Exceptional service orientation to supporting clients and dealing with sensitive issues;

• 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;

• Effective oral and written communication as appropriate for the needs of the audience;

• 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;

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

• Self-motivated and able to take initiative

• Ability to manage small to medium projects and/or be an engaged project team member

Qualifications:

HR Generalist I

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

• Experience: One year of relevant human resources experience and customer service experience required.

HR Generalist II

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

• Experience: 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:

• PHR or SHRM-CP is highly desired

• Experience in a complex, matrixed organization with varied business units and decentralized processes is highly desired

• Experience with Workday or related HRIS systems is highly desired

• Experience handling confidential information

• Experience with processing multi-state and/or international HR related transactions

• Prior union experience is helpful but not necessary

• Prior higher-education experience 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 June 30, 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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