HR Assistant — Staffing & Records Support

Smithsonian Institution; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 57,000 - 74,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Dental & Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Transit/Commuter Benefits

Annual and Sick Leave

Family Friendly Leave

403b Retirement Plan

Smithsonian Membership Discounts

Museum Stores and Restaurants

Credit Union

Job summary

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Cambridge, MA, is seeking a Human Resources Assistant (IS-203-07) to provide specialized administrative support in staffing, personnel data entry, and HR functions. The role supports onboarding, records management, and compliance with Federal and Smithsonian policies.

Open to all eligible candidates; SAO does not sponsor visas. The position requires one year of specialized HR experience and a strong attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• One year of specialized HR experience at the next lower grade level.
• Experience with personnel records, vacancy announcements, and applicant files.
• Knowledge of HR data entry and payroll systems.

Responsibilities

• Process personnel actions in the HRMS and maintain electronic records.
• Coordinate eligibility, postings, and inquiries for applicants.
• Coordinate onboarding including verification and orientation.
• Oversee background investigations and security compliance.
• Develop SOPs to improve efficiency and compliance.
• Oversee HR emails and maintain correspondence records.
• Maintain electronic Official Personnel Folders.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Federal HR policies

HR data entry

Onboarding processes

Background investigations

Pay and benefits

Tools

National Finance Center

Staff Database

Job description

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Cambridge, MA, is seeking a Human Resources Assistant (IS-203-07) to provide specialized administrative support in staffing, personnel data entry, and HR functions. The role supports onboarding, records management, and compliance with Federal and Smithsonian policies.

Open to all eligible candidates; SAO does not sponsor visas. The position requires one year of specialized HR experience and a strong attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.