People & Operations Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY: 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. The People & Operations Specialist not only supports staff—they embody the values of the YMCA. They serve as a trusted presence and mission-driven leader who helps create a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to serve their community.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Provide day-to-day administrative support to the Executive Director and branch leadership team.
2. Coordinate meetings, prepare agendas, take minutes, and manage follow-up actions.
3. Organize and maintain branch documents, schedules, and communication materials.
4. Assist with reporting, correspondence, and general office management tasks.
5. Coordinate onboarding and offboarding processes, including new hire paperwork and orientation.
6. Maintain up-to-date and confidential employee records and HR databases.
7. Assists with the resolution and documentation of employee and member incidents and investigations.
8. Support implementing risk management practices to ensure a safe and positive member experience.
9. Support payroll and timekeeping processes, employee status changes, and benefits-related documentation.
10. Respond to employee inquiries related to HR policies, procedures, and general support.
11. Assist in the coordination of staff training, development, and recognition programs.
12. Ensure compliance with YMCA policies and employment laws.
13. Promote a positive, inclusive, and mission-aligned workplace culture.
14. Serve as a resource for employees and supervisors on workplace concerns and questions
15. Assist in documenting and tracking employee relations matters in collaboration with senior HR staff.
16. Support efforts to improve employee engagement, communication, and retention.
17. Perform other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Associate or bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
2. Minimum of 1 year of administrative or HR experience; nonprofit or service industry background is a plus.
3. Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments.
4. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
5. Able to work independently and with minimal supervision. Organized and detail oriented.
6. A positive, can-do attitude and commitment to delivering exceptional employee experience.
7. Comfortable using HR systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

YMCA CORE VALUES (Team Leader):

The National YMCA Mission:

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

Caring: Fosters a supportive and inclusive team environment. Encourages collaboration and staff well-being.

Honesty: Builds trust by being transparent in decision-making and feedback. Encourages open dialogue.

Respect: Creates a respectful team culture. Resolves conflict with fairness and professionalism

Responsibility: Holds self and team accountable for goals. Provides feedback and supports growth.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Routinely involves sitting, standing, walking and reaching within the office space.
• Operates primarily in a professional office environment with frequent computer use and standard office equipment.
• Communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing.