Harvard University·Cambridge, Massachusetts
The HR Coordinator manages onboarding and offboarding logistics, maintains HRIS data, and provides administrative support for payroll and reporting. They also act as a primary point of contact for staff inquiries and assist in the development of internal HR processes and communications.
Company Description By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise.
We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.
Why join Harvard University Central Administration?
Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities.
Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals.
Job Summary: Are you energized by helping people navigate their employee journey and keeping HR operations running smoothly? Join our HR team as an HR Coordinator, in which you will play a central role in ensuring a positive experience for new hires, current employees, and department leaders. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment, enjoys problem solving, and is eager to grow their HR skill set while supporting a wide range of operational needs. This role is a key member of the HR Consulting team within Central Administration. This is a two year time-limited position from the date of hire.
Basic Qualifications: College degree preferred, or equivalent combination of education and relevant office experience. Three or more years of related experience in a customer service focused environment. Additional Qualifications and Skills: Candidate must have experience working with multiple technologies and a comfort level working with data. Must be able to trouble shoot and work through systems issues. Ability to handle all questions and projects with poise, tact, discretion, confidentiality, and sound judgment. Strong attention to detail, curiosity, initiative, and follow-through. High level of organization; able to perform tasks accurately, efficiently, transparently, and on time. Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to build effective working relationships and present a positive, professional image. Strong writing skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and concisely. Working Conditions: Hybrid position. The position is based on site in Cambridge, MA. There may be the opportunity for a hybrid work model compliant with Harvard University policies. Work location is responsive and subject to change based on business needs. Requests for flexibility will be considered consistent with Harvard University flexwork policies. Work Environment: Work is performed in an office setting.
This is a two year time-limited position from the date of hire. Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position Pre-Employment Screening: Identity Other Information: Orientation and Review Period is 3 months Work Format Details This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. Salary Grade and Ranges This position is salary grade level 054. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.
Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: Generous paid time off including parental leave Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one Retirement plans with university contributions Wellbeing and mental health resources Support for families and caregivers Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
Candidates should have a college degree or equivalent experience, along with three or more years of experience in a customer service-focused environment. Strong organizational, communication, and technical skills are required to manage HR systems and data effectively.
Market context
HR coordinator roles in Massachusetts are often tied to steady hiring, employee support, and compliance needs across schools and healthcare organizations. Competition can be strong because employers look for candidates with customer service experience, solid organization, and comfort handling HR systems and data. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then tailor your application to show administrative accuracy and clear communication.