A Human Resource Specialist (Student Services) serves as the primary point of contact for all student employment matters at FHSU, including the oversight and coordination of student payroll and international student employment processes, which are key functions of this role. This position partners with department staff to address a wide range of workplace issues while delivering meaningful HR support and advancing the strategic initiatives of Student Services. Responsibilities include overseeing and administering HR services for student employees, including payroll, employee relations, performance management, employee engagement, and recruitment. The role also collaborates closely with HR leadership to develop effective strategic partnerships and deliver high-quality programs and services that support both departments and student employees across the university.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Knowledgeable in international student employment processes, including employment eligibility requirements, visa-related considerations, and student payroll procedures. Demonstrates an understanding of payroll practices and compliance requirements related to student employment in a higher education environment.
- Support campus the Human Resources team in design, delivery, and implementation of customer facing business and people solutions in conjunction with Student employment.
- Establish and maintain relationships between the Human Resources Department and institutional departments to help facilitate the success of the University's mission and goals.
- Provide guidance and coaching to business units on issues related to all areas of HR management, including: employee relations, organizational and staff development, talent acquisition/recruiting, talent management, and total rewards.
- Identify training needs for respective business units; partner with internal organizational development teams to design, develop, and facilitate training.
- Manage and resolve complex employee relations and equal opportunity issues; conduct effective, thorough, and objective investigations.
- Provide performance management guidance to respective business units, including coaching, counseling, career development, and performance improvement plans.
- Work closely with management and employees to improve work relationships, build morale, and increase productivity and retention.
- Provide input and feedback that enhances the delivery of existing programs.
- Partner with campus Human Resources teams to diagnose organizational design, development, or training needs and assist in implementing those services and programs.
- Take initiative, work independently, and effectively manage projects.
- Perform any other related duties as required or assigned.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty mentioned satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Minimum Qualifications
This position requires a bachelor’s degree in business administration, Human Resources, or a related field or four years of experience in lieu of degree.
Preferred Qualifications
- 1-3 years of progressively responsible experience in Human Resources
- Supervisory Experience
- Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations governing Human Resources programs and the employment relationship.
- Experience with Human Resource Management Systems (HRMS), such as Workday.
- Experience in employee relations or conflict resolution.
Additional Information
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Skill in communicating effectively in situations of conflict and high stress.
- Basic computer and office skills and the ability to learn new software used in Human Resources.
Appointment Date: July 2026
Priority Deadline: June 21, 2026. Screening of complete applications will begin immediately following the priority deadline and will continue until the position is filled.
Application Process: To apply for this position, please visit
FHSU Careers. Only electronic applications submitted through the webpage will be accepted.
Required Application Documents: Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing the qualifications listed above and a current resume. References may be requested from final candidates later in the hiring process.
Applicant documents should be submitted in one PDF.
If you have questions regarding the position, please contact:
Russell Irby, HR Director
Community of Hays
FHSU is located in Hays, a vibrant college town of approximately 20,000, located halfway between Kansas City and Denver on Interstate 70. Hays is the regional center for education, health care, professional services, shopping, culture, and recreation for the western half of Kansas. The community boasts excellent recreational programs and facilities, including the comprehensive Center for Health Improvement, Hays Aquatic Park, Smoky Hill Country Club, Hays Municipal Golf Course, and extensive walking, running, and biking trails. Hays is within 45 minutes of two large lakes that offer great opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. The Hays Municipal Airport provides connecting service to Denver with several flights daily. The Hays community is home to excellent Pre-K and K-12, public and private schools. With over 60 restaurants, major retail outlets, a low unemployment rate, and very short commute times, the city provides a safe, welcoming, low-cost, high-quality living environment for the residents who call "Hays, America" home.
Notice of Non-discrimination: FHSU is committed to providing equal opportunity and access to its educational programs, employment, services, and activities in compliance with federal and state nondiscrimination laws. FHSU prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity and expression), age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law in its programs, activities, admissions, or employment.
Background Check: Final candidate will have consented to and successfully completed a criminal background check.
Notice to KPERS retirees applying for a position: Recent legislation changes working-after-retirement rules for both you and your employer if you go back to work for a KPERS employer. Please contact your KPERS representative or
www.kpers.org for further information on how this might affect you.
