HR SYSTEMS SPECIALIST
The HR Systems Specialist is a senior individual contributor and lead technical expert for HR technology platforms across West Virginia higher education. This role ensures seamless technology operations that support accurate reporting, regulatory compliance, and efficient service delivery. Working independently under strategic direction, the specialist administers and optimizes HR systems, leads upgrades and procurement efforts, and ensures data integrity. The position partners closely with HR colleagues and institutional stakeholders to align systems with compensation, benefits, and engagement initiativesapplying a systems mindset to improve processes, strengthen compliance, and solve complex challenges collaboratively.
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt, Non-Classified, Benefit-EligibleDuties and Responsibilities:
HR Systems Leadership & Administration (50%)
Serve as primary owner and administrator of all HR platforms (e.g., HRIS, salary tools, applicant tracking, timekeeping, HR ticketing), ensuring reliability, accuracy, and compliance Manage vendor relationships and support procurement of HR systems and services Lead system upgrades, enhancements, testing, and implementations Identify and implement new technologies to streamline operations, maximizing use of existing tools before recommending new solutions Develop reporting standards, documentation, and internal controls Run and validate required reports for legislative, regulatory, and operational purposes Train and support staff on reports, data entry, and troubleshooting
Compliance & Process Improvement (25%)
Ensure systems support compliance with federal and state employment laws, WV Code, and organizational policies Maintain data integrity through periodic audits and quality controls Deliver exceptional customer service while identifying workflow gaps and process improvements Recommend solutions that increase efficiency, reduce risk, and optimize resource utilization Serve as the technical and systems resource for HR process improvement initiatives, leveraging system capabilities and data insights to identify efficiencies and support workflow enhancements across the department.
Collaboration & Institutional Partnership (25%)
Chair HR systems working groupfacilitate collaborative problem-solving with institutional HR and IT leaders Serve as liaison and escalation point for system functionality, reporting, and technical issues Partner with HR team members and internal/external stakeholders to ensure alignment across systems and programs Support HEPC technology priorities and contribute technical expertise during cross-functional initiatives Develop cross-functional knowledge by partnering with HR colleagues; serve as a backup resource across compensation, benefits, and operations areas to support team flexibility and operational continuity.
Education: Bachelor's degree. Additional relevant work experience can be substituted in lieu of degree.
Work Experience: Minimum three (3) years of progressively responsible HR experience, including experience with multiple HR systems.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Demonstrated track record of process improvement
Intellectual curiosity with a proven ability to navigate ambiguity, overcome roadblocks, and close gaps in knowledge or resources
Ability to work independently and manage initiatives with grit and coachability
Working knowledge of federal and state employment laws and compliance requirements
Strong analytical skills with experience producing, interpreting, and optimizing reports
Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 (Excel, Teams, SharePoint, Power BI)
Procurement experience.
Ability to work in a hybrid environment (both remotely and in person).
Open Until Filled. Review of applications and interviews will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. This position is expected to start on or around June 29, 2026.
Application Process:
In addition to filling out the online application, interested applicants must submit a letter of interest and a current resume. Contact information for three professional references will be requested later in the interview process.
Final candidates are subject to employment and credential verification, as well as reference and background checks.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Apply on agency website: Why Work With Us?
Great careers aren't just about the job they're about the whole package.
At the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission/Community & Technical College System, we're looking for talented people who want more than just a paycheck. If you value purpose-driven work, financial security, and time to live your life, keep reading.
At HEPC/CTCS, we work every day to expand educational opportunities and improve quality of life for West Virginians. We know education is essential to building a strong workforcetoday and for the futureand our efforts impact 60,000 students each year. In partnership with our states colleges and universities, we strive to make postsecondary education more affordable, accessible, and attainable.
The Short Version
What You Get
The Details
Shorter Work Week
37.5 hours not the standard 40
Flexibility
Hybrid schedule with remote and in-office days
Time Off
24 days annual leave + 18 days sick leave + all WV state holidays
Retirement
401(a) with 6% match, plus 403(b) & 457(b) options
Healthcare
Multiple medical plans + comprehensive ancillary benefits
Environment
You'll work in a modern office with real amenities think outside walking paths, an on-campus café, and plenty of space to spread out. But it's not just about the space. It's about a culture that gives you room to grow and work that actually matters.
Let's Talk About Retirement (Seriously)
Most people gloss over retirement benefits. Don't.
Our plan isn't your grandfather's pension it's better. With a 6% employer match on your 401(a) and access to both 403(b) and 457(b) accounts, you can strategically save in ways that could replace well over 100% of your working income when you retire. That's not a typo. That's planning done right.
Time Off That Actually Lets You Recharge
- 24 days of annual leave accrued per year
- 18 days of sick leave because life happens
- Every West Virginia state holiday and if you know WV, you know that's a lot of days off
Add it all up, and you'll have the time you need to travel, rest, handle family obligations, or simply enjoy a long weekend.
Flexibility Without the Fine Print
Our hybrid work model gives you the best of both worlds in-office collaboration and the convenience of remote work. And we don't just offer flexibility; we equip you for it. Expect dual monitors, quality peripherals, and the tools you need to be productive at home and in the office.
Benefits Beyond the Basics
- Health coverage: Choose from multiple medical plan options tailored to different needs and budgets.
- Ancillary benefits: Dental, vision, life insurance, disability, FSA/HSA options, and more the full suite of coverage to protect you and your family.
The Work Itself
Let's not forget why you're here: the job.
At the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, we offer:
- Challenging, engaging work that keeps you learning
- A service-oriented mission where your efforts create real impact in higher education policy
- Opportunities for advancement we promote from within and invest in your growth
- A welcoming office environment modern space, good people, positive culture
The Bottom Line
You deserve a workplace that respects your time, invests in your future, and gives you room to thrive. That's exactly what you'll find at the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission.
Interested? Let's talk.
Benefits
The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:
- Health Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Dental
- Vision
- Hearing
- Legal Services
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Health Savings Account
- 401(a) Retirement Account with 6% Employer Matching Contribution
- Voluntary Supplemental Retirement Accounts
- Vacation Days
- Sick Days
- Paid Holidays