Human Resources Associate

About The Company
The Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the mission of the NIH by fostering innovative research collaborations and advancing health-related initiatives. With a commitment to improving health outcomes through strategic partnerships, the FNIH provides essential resources, funding, and organizational support to accelerate scientific discovery. The organization values integrity, excellence, and inclusivity, striving to create a collaborative environment where talent and innovation thrive. As a vital supporter of biomedical research, FNIH plays a critical role in translating scientific breakthroughs into tangible health solutions that benefit communities worldwide.
About The Role
The Human Resources Associate at the Foundation for the NIH is a full-time, benefits-eligible position based in North Bethesda, MD. This role is pivotal in supporting the daily operations of the HR department, ensuring the smooth delivery of HR services across the employee lifecycle. The position involves managing HR systems, assisting with recruiting, onboarding, and benefits administration, and supporting HR initiatives that enhance organizational effectiveness. Reporting directly to the Senior HR and Learning & Development Officer, the HR Associate acts as a key point of contact for HRIS-related activities and operational support. This role requires a highly organized, detail-oriented professional capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining strict confidentiality. The position is funded for 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on organizational needs and funding availability.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, along with 3 to 5 years of experience in HR functions. Proven expertise working with HRIS platforms, particularly Paycom, for at least two years is essential. Candidates should have a solid understanding of HR operations, including onboarding, employee support, and recruiting coordination. HR certifications such as PHR or SHRM-CP are preferred, demonstrating a commitment to professional development. Experience working in a hybrid work environment and familiarity with federal and organizational HR policies are advantageous. Strong technical skills in Microsoft Office applications and virtual meeting platforms are required. The candidate should demonstrate excellent communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a high level of discretion when handling sensitive information.
Responsibilities

• Provide operational support for the HR function, focusing on HRIS administration and employee lifecycle management.
• Administer and support the Paycom HRIS platform, including troubleshooting, system updates, and transaction processing.
• Process Personnel Action Forms (PAFs) and employment transactions such as promotions, pay adjustments, supervisor changes, and terminations.
• Maintain accurate employee records, HR documentation, and internal process materials to ensure compliance with organizational policies and regulations.
• Support HR initiatives and special projects, including compensation reviews and organizational development programs.
• Assist with the logistics of HR training sessions, workshops, and leadership development activities.
• Coordinate recruiting activities within the Applicant Tracking System, including candidate tracking, interview scheduling, and communication.
• Support onboarding and offboarding processes, including background checks, system access setup, and documentation collection.
• Assist with benefits administration, respond to employee inquiries, support qualifying life events, and coordinate open enrollment activities.
• Serve as a resource for employees and managers, providing guidance on HR policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with team members to enhance HR service delivery and contribute to organizational effectiveness.

Benefits
The Foundation for the NIH offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes competitive health insurance options, dental and vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment that emphasizes work-life balance, flexible scheduling, and opportunities for career growth. The organization is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, providing resources and programs to support employee well-being and development. Additionally, employees benefit from the chance to contribute to impactful health research initiatives that make a meaningful difference in public health.
Equal Opportunity
The Foundation for the NIH is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply and join our team in advancing health research and innovation.