People Operations Specialist

Join a Mission-Driven Organization Changing Lives Every Day

At The Place for Children with Autism, we’re on a mission to change lives—one child, one family at a time. We're looking for a People Operations Specialist to join our People Team and help create an exceptional employee experience at every stage of the employee journey. 

If you're a detail-oriented People Operations professional who thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and loves supporting people, improving processes, and using data to drive decisions, this role is for you. 

What You’ll Do:

As a People Operations Specialist, you’ll serve as the first point of contact for employee HR inquiries and ensure the seamless execution of core People functions, including: 

• Employee Lifecycle Management – onboarding, offboarding, changes, and transfers
• HRIS Administration – maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing Paylocity workflows
• Payroll – processing biweekly payroll with accuracy and compliance
• Benefits Administration – managing enrollments, audits, life events, deductions, reconciliation, and reporting
• Unemployment & Leave of Absence Management – manage and respond to unemployment claims and administer leave of absence processes (FMLA, ADA, personal leave, etc.) in coordination with compliance protocols
• Compliance Oversight – tracking certifications, licensures, trainings, and federal/state labor requirements
• Data Analysis & Survey Reporting – compiling and analyzing pulse, engagement, and experience surveys
• Employee Experience & Engagement – partnering on initiatives that strengthen our workplace culture 

 What You'll Bring:

• 2+ years of experience in People Operations, Benefits, Payroll, and HRIS 
• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, or related field (preferred)
• Experience processing payroll and working in HRIS platforms (Paylocity preferred)
• Familiarity with employee engagement tools and survey platforms
• Strong data analysis and reporting skills (Excel proficiency required)
• High attention to detail, strong organizational and problem-solving abilities
• Proficient knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain processes clearly
• A proactive, service-driven mindset and commitment to confidentiality 

Why You’ll Love It Here 

• Purpose-driven work that changes lives
• A supportive team that values service, growth, and joy
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
• Hybrid schedule with some local travel (Chicagoland & Central IL)
• Full benefits, 401(k) match, paid time off, and more
• Salary Range $55,000 - $65,000 + shared success bonus potential

Location & Work Environment 

• This role is based in Chicago with hybrid work environment  
• Occasional local travel for center visits may be required 

Ready to help shape a people-first culture where employees thrive? Apply now to join a mission-driven organization making a lasting impact.

Ready to join us in making a difference? Apply now and let's create brighter futures together at The Place for Children with Autism!

The Place for Children with Autism is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.