Human Resources Partner

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Human Resources Partner.

Location:

Hattiesburg
118 College Drive, Hattiesburg, Mississippi, , United States

Division:
Department of Human Resources

Position Type:
Staff

Employment Status:
Full Time

Grant Funded:
No

Salary Range: 50,000.

Pay Grade: E10

Posting Close Date:
Open Until Filled

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H‑1B).

The Human Resources Partner provides consulting and day‑to‑day operational support to university leadership in employee relations, leave coordination, policy/procedure administration and compliance. This position serves as a key consultant for employee relations matters and manages the coordination of leave programs including FMLA, USERRA, Workers’ Compensation, and ADA.

• Serve as a proactive and dependable resource for university leaders by offering timely responses to inquiries, interpreting policies and procedures, reviewing job descriptions, and providing informed recommendations to support sound decision‑making.
• Manages all leave of absence processes, including FMLA, ADA, personal/medical leave, sabbatical, military leave, and donated leave. Ensure compliance with applicable laws and University policies while maintaining accurate leave records.
• Manage Workers’ Compensation activities, including injury reporting, departmental communication, third‑party claim management, and proper documentation of claims.
• Assist in resolving problems or concerns of general grievance and other human resources issues. Participate in investigations, help to resolve workplace problems and ensure adherence to the university grievance process.
• Develop, implement, and facilitate training on HR‑related topics such as FMLA, reasonable accommodations, performance management, and leave procedures to promote consistency and compliance across the University. Contribute to the creation and implementation of new HR programs, policies and processes that support institutional goals.
• Participate in the development and rollout of HR policies, programs, and initiatives. Collaborate on university‑wide projects to promote a culture of accountability, compliance, and continuous improvement. Perform other duties as assigned.

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Human Resources or a related field and three (3) years of human resources experience consulting with leaders on employee relations issues (such as recruiting, discipline, performance management, policies and procedures) and leave management (such as FMLA, ADA, personal/medical leave, and military leave). Must be able to travel.

• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• A strong customer service orientation and ability to build strong working relationships with a wide variety of individuals.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Ability to be a supportive and participative team member with a high level of personal initiative and responsibility
• Experience with HR systems; proficiency with Microsoft computer applications.
• Ability to exercise discretion and judgment in matters of sensitive or confidential nature.

Professional HR certification preferred.

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community‑engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication…