At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR administration across recruitment, employee changes, and benefits in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join a supportive organisation committed to making a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and a chance to work flexibly between home and office.
- Why this job: Gain valuable HR experience while contributing to meaningful projects in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR administration and strong communication skills are essential.
We’re looking for an organised and proactive HR Assistant to join our People Shared Services team on a 12-month maternity cover contract.
About the role
Working as part of a busy People Team, you’ll provide a high-quality HR administration service across the employee lifecycle, supporting areas including recruitment, employee changes, absence, learning and development and employee benefits. You’ll maintain accurate and confidential employee records, process new starters and changes on our HR and payroll system, prepare contracts and other HR documentation and respond to queries from colleagues, candidates and managers. You’ll also support pre-employment and compliance checks, including right to work, references and DBS checks, as well as Occupational Health referrals and regular data audits. As a first point of contact for general HR enquiries, you’ll provide straightforward guidance on policies and processes, escalating more complex matters where appropriate. You’ll also have the opportunity to support wider People Team projects and identify ways we can continue to improve our systems and processes. This is a varied role where accuracy, organisation and great customer service are key.
About you
You’ll have solid experience of HR administration within a busy environment and a good understanding of employment legislation and HR processes. Highly organised and able to manage competing priorities, you’ll have excellent attention to detail and be confident working accurately to deadlines. You’ll be a strong communicator who can build positive relationships with colleagues at all levels and provide a friendly, professional and responsive service. You’ll be comfortable using Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel and Outlook, as well as HR software systems, and will be confident handling sensitive and confidential information. You’ll be proactive, flexible and willing to use your initiative to solve problems and improve ways of working. A CIPD/Level 3 qualification would be advantageous but are not essential.
How to apply
If you share our passion and this role sounds like you, then we’re looking forward to hearing from you. Please submit your CV and supporting information via our online application platform. The closing date for applications is 8th November 2026. Interviews will take place on tbc. We reserve the right to bring the closing date forward should enough quality applications be received prior to the current closing date.
Additional Information
Applications are welcome from all, regardless of age, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief, race, sex, sexual orientation, trans status or socioeconomic background. We positively encourage applications from people from marginalised backgrounds, including but not limited to those with experience of living in poverty. We are committed to being an anti-racist organisation and operate an anonymised recruitment process so that bias is eliminated from the shortlisting process. In support of our approach to flexible working, we are happy to receive applications from those seeking full-time employment, as well as those who may want to share the role on a part-time basis. When making your application, please state whether you want to be considered for either full or part-time work and, if part-time, the number of hours per week you would be looking for. At JRF we’re at our best when we’re continually building on trust, showing we care and making a difference – and hope others will do the same. So, for those roles which allow it, we’re developing a more blended approach to how and where you work. This means you can expect to work flexibly between the office and home with an expectation of one day in the office a week. We offer a supportive and flexible workplace. For details about our benefits click here: JRF Benefits. We are a Disability Confident Employer. This means that we are committed to the recruitment, progression and retention of disabled individuals. We shall also offer interviews to disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria for the job. If you have a disability, please tell us if you would like to be considered for an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. If you have any additional needs and need reasonable adjustments to be made to the interview process, please let us know.
HR Assistant (Maternity Cover) in York employer: Joseph Rowntree
JRHT is an excellent employer that prioritises a supportive and inclusive work culture, making it an ideal place for a Business Support Officer in Property Services. With a commitment to employee growth and development, you will have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that enhance community living while enjoying a flexible working environment. Our values-driven approach ensures that every team member feels valued and empowered to make a difference in the lives of our residents.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Assistant (Maternity Cover) in York
✨Get Involved in Local HR Events
Check out local HR networking events or workshops in your area. These are great opportunities to meet industry professionals, learn about the latest trends in human resources, and potentially get leads on part-time roles like the one at Joseph Rowntree.
✨Join HR Communities Online
Platforms like SHRM Connect or HR-specific LinkedIn groups are gold mines for job leads and industry discussions. Engaging in conversations can put your name out there and might just catch the eye of someone from Joseph Rowntree looking for a part-time star!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're studying or have recently graduated, don’t forget about your university's career services. They often have contacts in the HR world that can help you score a part-time gig, plus you can access exclusive job boards!
✨Direct Applications Through Our Website
When you find the part-time role you're excited about, apply directly through our website. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps us streamline the hiring process. Make your application stand out with a tailored approach!
We think you need these skills to ace HR Assistant (Maternity Cover) in York
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your People Skills:In human resources, it’s all about connecting with people. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience in recruitment, employee relations, or conflict resolution. If you’ve got any certifications in HR or related fields, don’t forget to flaunt them!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Shine Bright:When applying for a part-time HR role at Joseph Rowntree, your cover letter should reflect your motivation and enthusiasm for the position. Discuss your passion for people management and how you can contribute to their team, even on a part-time basis.
Demonstrate Flexibility and Availability:Since it's a part-time role, be clear in your application about your availability. HR often requires a balance of flexibility and commitment, so outline any existing commitments and how you plan to manage your time effectively.
Include Real-Life Examples:When describing your experience, use specific examples that illustrate your competency in HR tasks. Whether it’s handling employee onboarding or managing records, these anecdotes can make your application stand out to Joseph Rowntree.
How to prepare for a job interview at Joseph Rowntree
✨Know Your HR Basics Inside Out
As we're diving into a part-time HR role, let’s brush up on key HR concepts like recruitment processes, employment law, and employee engagement strategies. Prepare to explain how you've handled various HR scenarios in the past or how you'd approach them in the future – this shows you can hit the ground running!
✨Get Creative with Your HR Portfolio
Bring along a portfolio showcasing your HR projects, like recruitment plans or engagement activities you've designed. This isn't just for show; it helps us illustrate our hands-on experience and creativity, making us stand out to Joseph Rowntree. Plus, it’s a tangible way to discuss our achievements!
✨Brush Up on Behavioural Interview Techniques
Expect a mix of traditional and behavioural interview questions. Prepare STAR answers (Situation, Task, Action, Result) on how you've resolved conflicts or improved team dynamics. Since HR is all about people, our ability to communicate effectively will be under the spotlight.
✨Show Flexibility and Enthusiasm
In a part-time HR role, demonstrating a flexible approach to working hours and responsibilities can make us more appealing to Joseph Rowntree. Expressing our eagerness to learn and contribute to the team will demonstrate that we're not just filling a position, but genuinely excited to be part of their journey!
