At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR processes and manage employee lifecycle with a focus on efficiency and accuracy.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at the Pirbright Institute, dedicated to operational excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension scheme, gym membership, and more perks.
- Other info: Great opportunities for career growth and professional development.
- Why this job: Be a key player in enhancing employee experience and streamlining HR services.
- Qualifications: Experience with HRIS and strong organisational skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking a proactive and detail‑oriented HR Shared Services Officer (HRIS) to support the delivery of efficient, high‑quality HR services across the employee lifecycle. This role combines hands‑on HR administration with practical HR systems (HRIS) support, including the administration of key people processes such as onboarding, probation, annual leave, and performance cycles while acting as the technical “super‑user” for our HRIS. You will play a key role in ensuring HR processes run smoothly, system data is accurate, and employees and managers receive timely support in a shared services environment.
Responsibilities
- Lifecycle management: Administer employee lifecycle processes from post‑onboarding to off‑boarding.
- Administration: Process and coordinate HR documentation, including employment contracts, amendments, letters, and communications for pay reviews, probation, maternity, extensions, leavers, and change of terms.
- Processes & Changes: Administer the probation, leaver and off‑boarding processes; update and submit accurate employee data changes (starters, leavers, contractual updates) on the HR system; update payroll tracker records for the Payroll and benefits team.
- First‑line Support: Provide first‑line support for HR queries via emails and ticketing CMS "TOPdesk", responding accurately and professionally to queries within agreed SLAs and escalating complex queries where appropriate.
- Compliance & Records: Maintain accurate employee records in line with GDPR and UK data protection legislation. Maintain relationships and liaise with third‑party providers (e.g., screening, Occupational Health).
- HRIS Administration & Process Ownership: Collaborate with IT to customise and deploy SelectHR (Access Evo) plugins for automated onboarding, off‑boarding, employee profiles, and appraisal workflows. Manage user access, create new employee profiles, and process system leavers with 100% data integrity. Administer key HR system cycles and processes, including annual leave cycles and balance management, probation tracking, onboarding and off‑boarding workflows. Identify continuous workflow improvement opportunities and automate manual tasks (e.g., self‑service portals). Lead the testing and implementation of system upgrades with IT and system provider to ensure HR processes remain efficient. Generate reports as required by the HR team and other departments. Participate in HR projects and initiatives that support operational excellence and employee experience.
Qualifications
- HRIS systems expertise: Prior experience using HRIS. Knowledge with HRIS Access (EVO / PeopleXD) is an advantage.
- Proven experience in HR operational or HR Shared Services.
- Ability to work with IT teams to configure system workflows and test new features.
- Strong understanding of HR processes, procedures and employee lifecycle.
- Experience handling sensitive personal data professionally with attention to detail.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (particularly Word and Excel).
- Excellent administration and organisational skills with ability to manage deadlines.
- Knowledge of UK employment legislation and right‑to‑work requirements.
Desirable qualifications
- CIPD qualification or working towards.
- Experience with HR ticketing system, Docusign and onboarding software.
- Basic knowledge of UK employment legislation and right‑to‑work requirements.
- Solid understanding of data protection, retention and confidentiality (GDPR).
Benefits
- Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings).
- 25 days annual leave per annum, pro‑rated, plus public and privilege days.
- Buy and sell annual leave.
- Option to carry over up to two weeks of annual leave.
- Pirbright gym with membership.
- Pirbright social club.
- Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site).
- Cycle to work.
- Subsidised staff restaurant.
- Childcare allowance.
- Free onsite parking.
- Electric car charging facilities.
This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with it. Responsibilities may change to carry out other duties as may be reasonably required by the line manager and may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing need of the Pirbright Institute.
HR Officer in Guildford employer: The Pirbright Institute
At the Pirbright Institute, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and supportive work culture. Our HR Officer role offers not only competitive benefits such as a generous pension scheme, ample annual leave, and access to our onsite gym, but also numerous opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic shared services environment. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying a range of unique perks tailored to enhance your work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Officer in Guildford
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at The Pirbright Institute!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at The Pirbright Institute.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Officer in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at The Pirbright Institute. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to The Pirbright Institute and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at The Pirbright Institute. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to The Pirbright Institute's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Pirbright Institute
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with The Pirbright Institute.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at The Pirbright Institute will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact The Pirbright Institute and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
