Human Resources Assistant - Temp to Hire - ENTRY LEVEL at Independent Living Inc – Newburgh, New York

Title: Human Resources Assistant - TEMP to HIRE- ENTRY LEVEL

Position Type: Onsite, Full-time (Monday - Friday), Non-exempt

Reports to: Vice President, Human Resources

Base Location: Washington Terrace, Newburgh

Pay Rate: $20.00/hr

About the Role

The Human Resources Assistant supports the HR department by ensuring the accurate and timely processing of employee data, benefits processing, compliance reporting, and employee support. This role is essential to maintaining HR systems, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering excellent internal customer service.

About Independent Living, Inc.

Since 1987, Independent Living Inc. (ILI) has been increasing access, encouraging self-determination, and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities in the New York’s Hudson Valley. Following the traditional independent living (IL) model, most of ILI’s board and staff are individuals with disabilities who use their lived experience to support others in the community - turning perceived deficits into assets.

Why Join Us?

At Independent Living, Inc., you’ll be part of a mission-driven team that believes that people are our greatest strength. As a Human Resources Assistant, you will help shape the culture of an organization that values disability lived experience as a professional asset and is committed to accessibility and inclusion for all staff.

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting employees, strengthening internal systems, and contributing to a mission that empowers the community.

What You’ll Do

• Review and process timekeeping records in compliance with policies and regulations
• Set up and maintain employee benefits and time-off profiles
• Manage personnel changes and ensure accurate HRIS data entry
• Coordinate benefits (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PFL, disability, etc.
• Support open enrollment and provide employee education on benefits
• Prepare separation packages and process terminations
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding benefits, absences, and HR matters, escalating issues to the Vice President of HR as needed
• Serve as liaison between employees and benefit providers
• Track, maintain and complete compliance related reporting (OSHA, labor laws, HR posters, etc.)
• Track certifications and licensure for compliance, uploading documentation into the HRIS as applicable
• Process monthly benefit invoices
• Maintain confidential employee records and files
• Generate reports, perform audits, and analyze HR data
• Provide HRIS training and support to employees
• Assist with recruiting efforts, including attending in-person job fairs
• Update employee handbook and communicate policy changes

The ideal candidate will have:

• A High School Diploma or equivalent
• Strong administrative and computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Exceptional attention to detail and a high level of data accuracy
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills with a people-focused approach
• Ability to work independently and solve problems effectively
• High level of discretion and professionalism when handling confidential information
• Dependability, resourcefulness, and a proactive mindset

It would be a plus if you also have:

• Personal experience with a disability
• 1–2 years of administrative or related experience
• Prior experience with HRIS systems
• Recruiting experience
• Bilingual skills, including American Sign Language (ASL)

Success in this role will be demonstrated through:

• Error-free time and attendance records
• Well-maintained and audit-ready HR records
• Accurate and timely HRIS data management
• High level of compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
• Efficient processing of benefits and employee transactions
• Strong employee support and responsiveness to inquiries
• Positive collaboration with employees, vendors, and internal teams
• Continuous improvement in HR processes and efficiency

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• This role is primarily office-based with extended periods of sitting and computer use
• Requires frequent use of a computer, phone, and standard office equipment
• May require occasional lifting of office materials or files (up to 20 lbs)

What we will provide to you

• A collaborative, mission-driven, supportive and inclusive workplace
• Opportunities to support meaningful community impact
• Professional development and training opportunities

Benefits and Compensation

We offer a comprehensive benefits program for eligible employees, including:

• Paid lunch break
• NYS Paid Sick Leave

Commitment to Inclusion

We actively support an inclusive hiring process and encourage people with disabilities, visible and non-visible, to apply. If you require reasonable accommodation to support the application process, please contact Latoya Merricks at (845) 674-7752.

ILI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable law.