Human Resources Operations Specialist

American Student Assistance • Full-time • Hybrid in Boston, Massachusetts, United States • $87,000 - $115,000 / year • 1m ago

Fast Facts

American Student Assistance is seeking a Human Resources Operations Specialist to manage benefits administration and HR systems support, ensuring efficient HR operations and a positive employee experience.

Responsibilities: Key responsibilities include HR systems support, benefits administration, payroll coordination, and general HR support tasks.

Skills: Required skills include experience with HRIS systems (preferably UKG), strong data management and analytical skills, and excellent communication abilities.

Qualifications: Preferred qualifications include HR certifications (PHR, SHRM-CP), and prior experience in mid-sized organizations (50–500 employees).

Location: Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Compensation: $87000 - $115000 / Annually

THE ROLE: Human Resources Operations Specialist

American Student Assistance™ (ASA) is national nonprofit that is changing the way kids learn about careers and prepare for their futures through access to career-readiness information and experiences.

ASA fulfills its mission through free digital-first direct experiences, philanthropy, advocacy, thought leadership, groundbreaking research, and impact investing. We believe that exploring career possibilities, as early as middle school, and providing access to education-to-career pathways aligned with one’s passions and goals will result in greater confidence and long-term success for all students.

We are looking for a Human Resources Operations Specialist – Benefits & HR Systems Support. This role will play a key role in keeping ASA’s People & Culture operations running smoothly. You’ll be the go-to person for benefits administration, HR system (UKG) maintenance, and employee data accuracy — ensuring our team members have the support, tools, and information they need to thrive.

This is a great opportunity for a detail-oriented HR professional who enjoys blending data management with people-centered service, working across teams, and improving processes to make a real difference in the employee experience.

What You’ll Do:

HR Systems (UKG) SupportPartner with the HRIS Lead to maintain and update data within UKG, including employee records, job changes, and organizational structure.
Troubleshoot, test, and generate reports within UKG modules such as Core HR, Benefits, and Timekeeping.
Run standard and ad hoc reports to support HR, Payroll, and compliance activities.
Support HRIS projects, enhancements, and user testing to continuously improve system performance.
Ensure accurate data flow between HR, Payroll, and Benefits systems.
Benefits AdministrationAdminister all employee benefit programs, including health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, and retirement plans.
Manage benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations within UKG and with vendors.
Coordinate annual open enrollment, prepare communications, and assist employees with benefit selections.
Reconcile benefit invoices and resolve discrepancies promptly.
Serve as the primary contact for benefits inquiries and ensure compliance with COBRA, HIPAA, ACA, and ERISA.
Payroll CoordinationLiaise between HR and Payroll to ensure all employee changes (new hires, terminations, pay adjustments, deductions) are accurately processed.
Audit payroll-related data and partner with Finance on reporting and process improvements.
Support year-end payroll and benefits processes (W-2, ACA, 1095-C).
General HR SupportAssist with onboarding, offboarding, employee relations, and HR documentation.
Maintain employee records with confidentiality and precision.
Support HR programs such as performance management and engagement initiatives.
Contribute to HR communications and employee education around benefits and HR policies.

About You:

4+ years of HR experience with a focus on benefits administration and HR operations.
Hands-on experience with UKG Pro (or similar HRIS); familiarity with HRIS administration preferred.
Knowledge of HR and benefits regulations, with strong data management and analytical skills.
Excellent communicator with strong attention to detail and a service-oriented mindset.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and Outlook.

Preferred:

HR certification (PHR, SHRM-CP, or equivalent).
Experience in a mid-sized organization (50–500 employees).
Demonstrated ability to streamline HR processes through technology and collaboration

Salary Range: $87,000 - $115,000

American Student Assistance is committed to fair and transparent pay. In determining compensation, we consider a variety of job-related factors, including prior experience, certifications and licenses, skills and expertise, geographic location, and internal equity.

We take a total compensation approach, meaning we look beyond salary alone to support, reward, and recognize the whole individual. Depending on role eligibility, your offer may also include a bonus, 403(b) retirement plan participation, generous paid time off, and comprehensive health and life insurance benefits. As a result, final offer amounts may vary from the salary range listed in the job posting. Join our mission-driven organization to enjoy these perks and benefits as well as investment in your growth, contributions, and future.

Why ASA?

ASA offers a wide range of perks and benefits to Team Members, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision healthcare plans, a retirement plan (plus match), weekly lunches, commuter benefits, and tuition reimbursement.

We also heavily prioritize a healthy work/life balance, which is why we offer all full-time Team Members generous PTO options, Summer Fridays (every Friday off between Memorial Day and Labor Day), and a company holiday break between December 25th and January 1st.

ASA works in a Hybrid schedule (2) two days a week in our Boston HQ. We prioritize strategic thinkers, collaborators, and work/life pros who are looking to help make a difference in kid's education and career goals.

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