Role: Human Resources Specialist (Contractor)
Job Summary:
Pilot Light is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Human Resources Specialist contractor to support efficient and supportive human resources operations. This role will focus on running payroll, supporting the development and organization of new policies, managing HR administration, fostering a positive organizational culture, and ensuring the smooth execution of performance reviews. A Chicago-founded nonprofit, Pilot Light empowers students to make informed food choices by integrating Food Education into classrooms nationwide. The HR Specialist will play a vital role in helping us grow and strengthen our team as we continue expanding our mission-driven work.
Location: Must be authorized to work in the United States. This is a remote position with occasional in-person meetings at our Chicago office.
Position Type: Contract, as needed, averaging 15 hours per week.
Start Date: February 2, 2025
Duties of the Position:
(40%) Payroll Management and HR Administration
- Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing for all employees.
- Handle payroll-related inquiries and resolve discrepancies.
- Maintain employee records, benefits, and compliance documentation.
- Manage onboarding and offboarding processes, including new hire paperwork and exit procedures.
- Track and maintain leave balances, PTO, and other employee-related data.
(30%) Policy Development and Compliance
- Assist in developing, updating, and organizing HR policies and procedures.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws.
- Collaborate with leadership to draft and communicate new policies.
- Maintain a central repository for all HR-related policies and documents.
(20%) Organizational Culture and Performance Review Support
- Monitor and support the performance review process, including scheduling and tracking completion.
- Collaborate with leadership to foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging organizational culture.
- Assist with team-building activities and employee engagement initiatives.
(10%) General HR Support
- Provide ongoing support and guidance to staff on HR matters, policies, and procedures.
- Handle ad hoc HR-related projects and initiatives as needed.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Proven experience in human resources, including payroll management and policy development.
- Strong understanding of labor laws and HR best practices.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Proficiency in payroll systems (ADP) and Google Suite.
- Passion for Pilot Light’s mission and vision.
- Certification in HR (e.g., PHR, SHRM-CP) is preferred but not required.
Skills and Knowledge:
- Strong project management and multitasking abilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to build positive working relationships across all levels of the organization.
- Innovative and proactive approach to problem-solving.
- Commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants should submit their resume and a brief cover letter outlining relevant experience and their hourly or project rate expectations to info@pilotlightchefs.org with the subject line: HR SPECIALIST APPLICATION.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Pilot Light embraces a philosophy that recognizes, values, and actively seeks diversity among its team. We seek to attract, develop, retain, and promote a talented, diverse workforce in a culture where all employees can contribute to their fullest potential. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, pregnancy or maternity, national origin, status as an individual with disability, age, ancestry, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
About Pilot Light
Pilot Light is a Chicago-founded 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that partners with educators to integrate Food Education into classrooms, helping students develop the knowledge and skills needed to make informed food choices. Since its founding, Pilot Light has reached over 20,000 students nationwide, with programming rooted in its pioneering Food Education Standards. Through its innovative teacher-led model, Pilot Light provides educators with resources and support to bring Food Education to life in schools, fostering a healthier and more informed generation.