People & Operations Specialist

Crossroads YMCA; Gary (IN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Crossroads YMCA is seeking a People & Operations Specialist at its Gary, IN branch to provide administrative and HR support to the executive team and staff. You will organize meetings, manage records, coordinate onboarding/offboarding, and help maintain confidential employee files while fostering a positive, inclusive workplace aligned with YMCA values.

Ideal candidates are organized, reliable, and able to balance administrative duties with people-focused responsibilities; they communicate

Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 1 year of administrative or HR experience required.
• Nonprofit, community service, or hospitality/service industry experience is a plus.
• Strong communication, organization, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Comfortable using HR systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic backgrounds.

Responsibilities

• Administrative & Operational Support: Provide day‑to‑day support to the Executive Director and branch leadership team; coordinate meetings, agendas, notes, and follow‑up actions; organize schedules, records, reports, and communication materials; support office operations and branch administrative functions.

Skills

Strong communication

Problem-solving

Independent work

Diversity sensitivity

Education

Associate or Bachelor's degree in HR/Business

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

HR systems

Job description

Job Location: Gary YMCA - Gary, IN 46404

People & Operations Specialist – Overview

The People & Operations Specialist is a vital member of the YMCA branch leadership team, providing comprehensive administrative and human resources support to ensure efficient branch operations. This role supports executive leadership, manages a range of people operations functions, and plays a key role in fostering a positive, inclusive, and mission‑aligned work environment.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Enjoys staying organized and keeping projects on track.
• Balances administrative work with people‑focused responsibilities.
• Finds purpose in supporting employees and creating a positive workplace culture.
• Is energized by solving problems and handling a variety of tasks throughout the day.
• Appreciates meaningful work connected to community impact and the YMCA mission.
• Works well independently while collaborating with leadership and staff.
• Maintains professionalism and confidentiality in sensitive situations.
• Enjoys a role where no two days are exactly the same.

Key Responsibilities

• Administrative & Operational Support: Provide day‑to‑day support to the Executive Director and branch leadership team; coordinate meetings, agendas, notes, and follow‑up actions; organize schedules, records, reports, and communication materials; support office operations and branch administrative functions.
• People Operations & HR Support: Coordinate onboarding and offboarding processes; maintain confidential employee records and HR systems; assist with payroll, timekeeping, benefits documentation, and employee status changes; respond to employee questions regarding HR policies and procedures; support staff training, recognition, and engagement initiatives.
• Employee Relations & Workplace Culture: Serve as a resource for employees and supervisors; assist with documenting employee relations concerns and incident investigations; promote a respectful, inclusive, and mission‑aligned workplace; support retention, communication, and employee engagement efforts.
• Risk Management & Compliance: Help support a safe environment for staff and members; assist in implementing YMCA policies and employment law compliance practices; support documentation and follow‑up related to workplace incidents or concerns.

Success Criteria

• Dependable and highly organized.
• Approachable, professional, and solution‑oriented.
• Comfortable balancing people support with administrative detail.
• Strong communicator who builds trust across teams.
• Adaptable and calm under pressure.
• Passionate about supporting staff and community impact.

Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 1 year of administrative or HR experience required.
• Nonprofit, community service, or hospitality/service industry experience is a plus.
• Strong communication, organization, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Comfortable using HR systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic backgrounds.

YMCA Core Values

The YMCA mission is: “To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.”

• Caring: Supports staff well‑being and fosters collaboration.
• Honesty: Builds trust through transparency and communication.
• Respect: Creates an inclusive and professional environment.
• Responsibility: Demonstrates accountability and supports growth.

Work Environment

• Professional office setting with frequent computer and office equipment use.
• Requires sitting, standing, walking, and reaching throughout the workday.
• Regular verbal and written communication with staff and leadership.
• Fast‑paced environment with changing priorities and frequent interaction with employees and members.