HR Consultant (UL494)

Working Title: HR Consultant
Job Code Title: HR Consultant 1 - Gen
Job Code: 9351GT

Service Area: Administration
Department: Libraries Human Resources

ABOUT THE POSITION

The HR Consultant addresses and consults on an array of HR issues including employee/labor relations, workforce planning, training and development, organizational effectiveness, performance management, and policy interpretation. Successful in this role relies on the ability to build strong relationships and influence solutions to complex problems. The role requires a strong understanding of HR fundamentals, high-level strategic thinking, flexibility in style and approach to problem solving, demonstrated value for diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, and experience successfully implementing, executing, and delivering on innovative HR solutions. This position reports to the HR Director and joins a team that helps employees do and be their best.

The HR Consultant is expected to be on campus 2-3 days/week, depending on business needs. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship or visa transfer.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Employee/Labor Relations and Performance Management (30%)

• Interpret, document, and systematize communication of HR policy and processes for Libraries staff.
• Consult with supervisors on HR policies, procedures, practices, and risk mitigation.
• Investigate complaints and grievances and recommend appropriate courses of action. Refer complex issues as appropriate.
• Guide and assist in the implementation of performance management strategies. Advise on corrective action and disciplinary procedures in line with University policies.
• Lead student supervisor meetings in partnership with HR Generalist.

Talent Acquisition (25%)

• Manage recruiting process and advise search committees. Regularly review processes and procedures and make changes to improve efficiencies and create a more diverse workforce.
• Conduct salary analysis and provide recommendations to the HR director for salary recommendations and offer negotiations.

Talent Development and Employee Experience (20%)

• Support and coach employees and leaders in development initiatives, including training, professional development, and career advancement opportunities.
• In partnership with the HR Director, identify, develop and execute initiatives to strengthen employee engagement and foster a diverse and inclusive work environment.
• Conduct exit interviews, analyze trends, and provide feedback to managers.
• Support onboarding planning and programming, including management support in developing their comprehensive onboarding plans.
• Recommend improvements to ensure effective HR systems and practices that provide a sense of belonging and community.

HR Team Leadership and General Support (15%)

• Participate in special committees, projects, and assignments as assigned.
• Serve as back up to the HR Generalist during absences or high volume periods during the year.
• Support change management efforts, including the PEAK transition.
• Review and approve HR action requests.
• Drive process improvement initiatives to enhance the efficiency of HR procedures.

Workforce Planning, Compensation, and Classification (10%)

• Advise hiring authorities on the appropriate classification of positions to include new positions, replacement hires, and reclassification requests.
• Consult with hiring authorities on initial job design, reporting, and departmental organizational structure; review and recommend changes to job descriptions for posting.
• Research, analyze, prepare, and recommend to the HR Director salary analysis/compensation.
• Review JEQs and job reclassification requests, and advise employees and supervisors.

Required Qualifications

• BA/BS plus at least six years of experience.
• Experience coaching managers or employees regarding HR policies and procedures or employment law.
• Excellent skill in asking meaningful questions and listening for the core issues or concerns.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to identify the issue, gather and analyze data, identify root causes and patterns/trends, and develop effective solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to work well with people from all backgrounds, communities, identities, and abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience interacting with others in an empathetic, diplomatic, and approachable manner, with the ability to establish trust with employees and managers.
• Proven attention to detail with a high level of accuracy and follow-through.
• HR experience in higher education or at a large, complex organization.
• Experience with or the ability to learn new technologies relevant to the position.
• Strong communication skills in a variety of methods.

Pay Range: $94,000 - $100,000/yearly; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

To be fully considered for this position, please submit the required documents with the file name UL494:

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter

Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis. This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.