HR Generalist

Newton Public Schools (MA); Newton (MA); On-site; USD 71,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Newton Public Schools in Newton, MA seeks a Human Resources Generalist to provide confidential personnel support from hire through separation, maintain accurate records, and support employee relations. The role requires independent judgment, discretion, real-time notes, strong communication, and proficiency with Google Suite, Microsoft Office, and TalentEd/Schoolspring ATS.

Reporting to the Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, this full-time exempt position collaborates across schools

Qualifications

• Associate degree and 3+ years in HR or related role.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred; public school district experience a plus.
• Experience with applicant tracking systems (TalentEd/Schoolspring).
• Strong detail, confidentiality, and organizational skills.
• Proficient with Google Suite and Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Assist with posting positions, screening applications, and tracking candidate status.
• Generate and review systems to support recruitment and hiring processes.
• Provide technical assistance to staff navigating the ATS.
• Ensure accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance in HR data management.
• Coordinate meeting logistics and prepare notes for HR leadership.

Skills

Attention to detail

Confidentiality

Real-time note taking

Strong communication

Google Suite

Microsoft Office

Organizational skills

Ability to work with diverse groups

Education

Associate degree

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Tools

TalentEd/Schoolspring ATS

Job description

Newton Public Schools Newton Public Schools - Ed Center - Newton, Massachusetts Open in Google Maps

Job Description

Department:Human Resources

FLSA Status (Exempt/Non-exempt): Exempt, Non-Aligned

Reports To: Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources

Schedule : Full Time - 5 days weekly

SUMMARY

The Human Resources Generalist provides confidential personnel support to Newton Public Schools employees, school leaders, and district administrators. The Generalist coordinates assigned HR processes from hire through separation, maintains accurate personnel records, and supports employee relations. The position requires independent judgment, discretion, and the ability to capture sensitive discussions accurately in real time.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate degree and at least three years of progressively responsible experience in human resources, personnel administration, or a related role. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, public administration, or a related field preferred. Experience in a public school district, municipal agency, or unionized workplace preferred.
• Experience working with applicant tracking systems (currently using TalentEd/Schoolspring applicant tracking platforms)
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and confidentiality
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Proficiency with Google Suite, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)
• Demonstrated ability to take accurate, organized notes in real time using shorthand, rapid typing, structured notes, or another effective method, and to prepare clear written records promptly
• Strong written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and sound judgment in handling sensitive personnel, medical, and labor relations information
• Proficiency with spreadsheets, word processing, and HR information systems
• Working knowledge of personnel records, onboarding, leave administration, and payroll coordinationAbility to work effectively with employees and families across racial, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds and support the district’s commitment to equity and anti-racism

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior experience in K–12 school district human resources
• Knowledge of state and federal employment laws and regulations (Will train)
• Familiarity withMUNIS system(Will train)
• Familiarity with collective bargaining agreements and Massachusetts public school licensure and reporting (Will train)

JOB FUNCTIONS

• Assist with posting positions, screening applications, and tracking candidate status
• Generate and review systems to support recruitment and hiring processes
• Provide technical assistance to staff navigating the applicant tracking system
• Ensure accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance in all HR data management
• Support other HR functions as assigned by the Director of Human Resources
• Ability to manage competing deadlines, respond professionally to employees and administrators, and collaborate effectively with colleagues across schools and departments
• Confidential Meeting Documentation and Employee Relations
• Capture material statements, questions and responses, decisions, and follow‑up actions in real time
• Attribute statements to the correct speaker and distinguish direct quotations from paraphrases
• Prepare timely, objective meeting notes or summaries for HR leadership
• Securely maintain notes and related materials, limit access to authorized personnel, and follow district procedures for retention and use of documentation tools
• Coordinate meeting logistics, gather records, prepare draft correspondence, and track deadlines and next steps under the direction of HR leadership

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to operate computer, printer, telephone, copier, facsimile machine, and all other standard office equipment
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time
• Sufficient mobility to navigate within a large or small school building
• Regularly required to lift and/or move objects weighing up to 25 pounds

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In compliance with state and federal laws, Newton Public Schools is committed to equity, anti-racism and a nondiscrimination policy for students, employees and prospective applicants. All educational and employment determinations are based on an individual’s qualifications and achievements without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, ancestry, homelessness, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by state and/or federal statute.

Job Details

Position Type: Full‑Time

Starting Date: To Be Determined

Salary: $71,000 to $75,000 Per Year