Human Resource Specialist

The University of Southern Mississippi; Hattiesburg (MS); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg is seeking a part-time Human Resource Specialist to support faculty, staff and student personnel paperwork and maintain accurate HR records. This role will serve as a primary contact for the university community and ensure compliance and timely processing of HR transactions.

You will provide responsive HR process support, maintain consistent HR procedures, and assist with forms while handling confidential information with discretion.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and 1–2 years of experience in human resources, administrative support, records management, or a related office environment.
• Experience handling confidential information and providing customer-focused service.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Verify personnel documentation and resolve discrepancies prior to data entry.
• Enter and maintain HR data with accurate processing of personnel transactions.
• Ensure pre-employment compliance through background checks and degree verifications.
• Provide HR customer service by responding to inquiries from faculty, staff, students, and departments.
• Assist with HR forms and act as backup to ensure continuity of operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of HR operations.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Data entry

Organizational skills

Discretion

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

HR systems

Job description

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Human Resource Specialist.

Position Details

Location Hattiesburg
118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States

Division Department of Human Resources
Position Type Staff
Employment Status Part Time
Grant Funded

No Salary Range 14.00 - 14.00 Pay Grade
Pay Grade Generic Grade

Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

This position is expected to move full time on January 4th, 2027.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The Human Resources Specialist supports Human Resources operations by processing faculty, staff, and student personnel paperwork and maintaining accurate employee records and HR system data. This position serves as a primary point of contact for the university community and works closely with departments to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely processing of HR transactions. The Human Resources Specialist contributes to the efficient operation of Human Resources by providing responsive support and maintaining consistent HR processes.

Primary Duties And Responsibilities

• Verify personnel documentation by reviewing Personnel Action Forms (PAFs) and Personnel Data Sheets (PDS) for completeness and accuracy, and by working with departments to resolve discrepancies prior to data entry.
• Enter and maintain HR data by accurately processing personnel transactions in accordance with established deadlines and by creating and maintaining organized employee files.
• Ensure pre-employment compliance by verifying completion of background checks, conducting degree verifications, confirming required documentation with departments, and ensuring requisitions are properly closed.
• Provide HR customer service and support by responding to inquiries from faculty, staff, students, departments, and the general public regarding HR processes, employment status, and payroll-related questions.
• Assist with HR forms and operational coverage by helping employees complete HR forms and serving as backup to the HR Operations Assistant to ensure continuity of operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of Human Resources operations.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent and one to two (1-2) years of experience in human resources, administrative support, records management, or a related office environment.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to provide professional, customer-focused service and build effective working relationships with employees, visitors, and the public.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment when handling sensitive or confidential information and records.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to think critically and respond effectively under time-sensitive conditions. Proficiency with basic computer applications and office systems, including email, word processing, spreadsheets, and data entry.

Preferred Qualifications

A minimum of two years of Human Resource experience with HR systems and processes.

About The University Of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.