Human Resources Associate

For first consideration, please submit your application materials by Sunday, February 1, 2026.

Position Summary

The Human Resources Associate supports Human Resource operations by administering benefits, overseeing the onboarding/offboarding lifecycle, managing risk management processes, and ensuring compliance with employment laws and safety regulations. This role serves as a primary point of contact for benefits and risk management inquiries and plays a key part in employee engagement initiatives.

Supervisory Relationships

This position reports to the HR Director and does not supervise other staff.

Job Responsibilities

Essential Functions

HR & Benefits Administration

• Directs the administration of comprehensive benefit packages, including IMRF pension reporting, Open Enrollment coordination, and employee advocacy.
• Facilitates the end-to-end onboarding process, including reference checks, payroll system integration, and tracking introductory period assessments.
• Ensures strict adherence to ACA and COBRA regulations while performing monthly audits of benefit invoices to ensure financial accuracy.
• Manages the integrity of personnel records within the HRIS and serves as the lead troubleshooter for all HR-related software platforms.
• Manages the ordering and distribution of staff uniform items.
• Leads employee recognition programs and assists in the planning and execution of engagement initiatives to foster a positive workplace culture.
• Demonstrates an understanding of and commitment to the organizational values of Stewardship, Community, and Discovery by caring for our resources, fostering inclusive experiences, and inspiring curiosity through this position’s work. 

Risk Management & Safety Compliance

• Serves as the Forest Preserves’ representative to the PDRMA Board for matters relating to property/liability, health, worker’s compensation and unemployment and accreditation activities.
• Maintains OSHA compliance and submits required reports. 
• Leads monthly risk management meetings (agendas, materials, minutes) and serves as a key member of the Safety Committee.
• Coordinates the development and distribution of safety manuals; manages property loss/damage claims and maintains meticulous safety records.
• Conducts risk management training for all staff and affiliates; oversees facility safety inspections and assists in incident investigations.
• Manages compliance for the CDL driver program, including training coordination, drug testing, and regulatory record-keeping.

Secondary Functions

• Provides documentation and report preparation support for annual audit activities.
• Assists HR Director with unemployment claims and general administrative support.
• Performs other duties as assigned to support the Administration department.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of progressive experience in HR administration, benefits, or risk management.
• Experience in benefits administration and compliance.
• Proficiency in Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS), preferably Paylocity.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Knowledge of employment laws and HR compliance requirements.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to explain complex benefit information to diverse staff.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license (required for travel to various preserve locations for inspections).

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) and Park District Risk Management Agency (PDRMA) protocols.
• Familiarity with OSHA regulations and workers' compensation processes.
• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field.