HR Generalist @ Newton Public Schools (MA)

Human Resources Generalist

Department: Human Resources

Employment classification: Non-Aligned / Confidential

FLSA status: Exempt

Salary Range: $71,000-75,000

Reports to: Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources

Position Summary

The Human Resources Generalist provides confidential personnel support to Newton Public Schools employees, school leaders, and district administrators. The Generalist coordinates assigned HR processes from hire through separation, maintains accurate personnel records, and supports employee relations. The position requires independent judgment, discretion, and the ability to capture sensitive discussions accurately in real time.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Associate degree and at least three years of progressively responsible experience in human resources, personnel administration, or a related role. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, public administration, or a related field preferred. Experience in a public school district, municipal agency, or unionized workplace preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with posting positions, screening applications, and tracking candidate status.
• Generate and review systems to support recruitment and hiring processes.
• Provide technical assistance to staff navigating the applicant tracking system.
• Ensure accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance in all HR data management.
• Support other HR functions as assigned by the Director of Human Resources.
• Ability to manage competing deadlines, respond professionally to employees and administrators, and collaborate effectively with colleagues across schools and departments.

Qualifications

• Experience working with applicant tracking systems (currently using TalentEd/Schoolspring applicant tracking platforms)
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and confidentiality
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Proficiency with Google Suite, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)
• Prior experience in K–12 school district human resources, preferred.
• Knowledge of state and federal employment laws and regulations, preferred (will train).

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to take accurate, organized notes in real time using shorthand, rapid typing, structured notes, or another effective method, and to prepare clear written records promptly.
• Strong written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and sound judgment in handling sensitive personnel, medical, and labor relations information.
• Proficiency with spreadsheets, word processing, and HR information systems. Familiarity with Munis preferred (will train).
• Working knowledge of personnel records, onboarding, leave administration, and payroll coordination. Familiarity with collective bargaining agreements and Massachusetts public school licensure and reporting preferred (will train).
• Ability to work effectively with employees and families across racial, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds and support the district's commitment to equity and anti-racism.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Confidential Meeting Documentation and Employee Relations
• Capture material statements, questions and responses, decisions, and follow-up actions in real time. Attribute statements to the correct speaker and distinguish direct quotations from paraphrases.
• Prepare timely, objective meeting notes or summaries for HR leadership . Securely maintain notes and related materials, limit access to authorized personnel, and follow district procedures for retention and use of documentation tools.
• Coordinate meeting logistics, gather records, prepare draft correspondence, and track deadlines and next steps under the direction of HR leadership.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily performed in an office setting and involves regular computer use, review of records, and attendance at in-person and virtual meetings. Occasional travel to district locations may be required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Equal Employment Opportunity

In compliance with state and federal laws, Newton Public Schools is committed to equity, anti-racism, and a nondiscrimination policy for students, employees, and prospective applicants. All educational and employment determinations are based on an individual's qualifications and achievements without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, ancestry, homelessness, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by state and/or federal law. The Newton Public Schools places a high value on the active recruitment of qualified employees who represent the backgrounds and ethnicities of our student body.