Human Resources Associate - Human Resources Specialist 1

Working Title: Human Resources AssociateJob Class: Human Resources Specialist 1Agency: Teachers Retirement AssociationJob ID: 94247Location: St. PaulTelework Eligible: YesFull/Part Time: Full-TimeRegular/Temporary: UnlimitedWho May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekersDate Posted: 05/18/2026Closing Date: 05/26/2026Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Teachers Retirement Assoc / TRA-ConfidentialDivision/Unit: TRA Human Resources Unit / Human ResourcesWork Shift/Work Hours: Not Applicable ShiftDays of Work: Monday - FridayTravel Required: Yes - 10%Salary Range: $25.67 - $37.26 / hourly; $53,598 - $77,798 / annuallyClassified Status: ClassifiedBargaining Unit/Union: 217 - Confidential/UnrepFLSA Status: NonexemptDesignated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: YesThe work you'll do is more than just a job.At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.Teachers Retirement Association (TRA) has been providing pension coverage to Minnesota educators for decades, with a mission to help members and their beneficiaries plan for an independent and financially secure retirement. We are currently seeking job candidates who are pro-active and process-oriented for a new Human Resources (HR) Associate role. Our HR Associate position will act as a strategic partner to TRA management and as a support resource to TRA staff and Board of Trustees, in the administration of HR services. The incumbent will assist in classification, recruitment, selection, and onboarding; leave administration; labor relations tasks; training on personnel topics; and data entry and record-keeping activities. The incumbent will also serve on HR-sponsored committees, complete research related to HR functions, and participate in HR projects and special assignments.This position is located at our Saint Paul, Minnesota office, and will require the incumbent to work a schedule that includes regular in-person work. Travel may be required up to 10% of the role.Minimum QualificationsTo qualify for this role, applicants must meet the following qualifications:Possess a Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, legal studies, or a related field; ORPossess one (1) year of HR work experience that includes recruitment, technical writing, supporting leave administration, and advising managers/supervisors/employees on HR functions, policies, or labor agreements.Education and work experience must also demonstrate the following:Ability to be reliable and follow complex directions to carryout a variety of HR functions in accordance with laws and policies.Critical thinking, creativity, and flexibility sufficient to evaluate situations and propose recommended solutions.Strong reading comprehension, analysis, and technical writing skills to perform job and compensation evaluation processes.Ability to pull and interpret reports, in order to make leave eligibility determinations.Communication and interpersonal skills sufficient to explain, discuss, and/or provide training on sensitive or technical HR matters.Strong attention to detail, skill in accurate recordkeeping, ability to effectively prioritize, and ability to remain organized.Knowledge of applicant tracking and personnel management software programs (such as Recruiting Solutions and SEMA4) and proficiency in using email, meeting, spreadsheet, presentation and word processing programs (such as the Microsoft Office Suite).Ability to collaborate with diverse groups of people to achieve organizational goals and champion an inclusive workplace.Successful candidates must possess the ability to secure their own transportation for in-state business travel.Preferred QualificationsFamiliarity with employment laws, rules, and regulations.Familiarity with State of Minnesota data privacy law.Experience working in a union environment.Experience performing or supporting personnel investigations.Physical RequirementsThis position requires occasional transporting of articles such as file folders, ledgers and/or small tools. May be required to move or maintain a stationary position for long periods of time.Additional Requirements**Successful candidates must pass past-employer reference checks and a criminal background check.**It is the policy of TRA that all finalist(s) submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:State of Minnesota state government employment records check (applies to current and past State of Minnesota state government employees only)Criminal History CheckEmployment Reference CheckSocial Security and Address VerificationEducation VerificationDriver's License CheckHow To ApplySelect “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.ContactIf you have questions about this position, or are an individual with a disability and need to request an accommodation for a scheduled interview, contact Diane Clemens at dclemens@minnesotatra.org .To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Diane Clemens at dclemens@minnesotatra.org.Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?A sense of purpose in their workConnection with their coworkers and communitiesOpportunities for personal and professional growthBenefitsAs an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.Your benefits may include:Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plansFertility care, including IVFDiabetes careDental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted childrenPension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of deathShort-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injuryTax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-beingSupport to help you reach your career goals:Training, classes, and professional developmentTuition reimbursement Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performanceCommon sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issuesDaily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder carePrograms, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.Teachers Retirement Association also offers free ramp parking at our Saint Paul Office location.EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERSMinnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.Applicants With DisabilitiesMinnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.