HR Specialist Manager / HR Business Partner II

IF YOU ARE A CURRENT STATE OF NEBRASKA EMPLOYEE, PLEASE APPLY THROUGH THE INTERNAL JOBS HUB IN WORKDAY.

Are you an HR professional with high personal integrity and a passion for supporting others' success? The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is looking for a dynamic and customer-focused Human Resources Business Partner II to join our team in Kearney, Hastings, Lexington, or Grand Island. In this role, you'll provide strategic HR guidance and partner with leaders across the agency to enhance engagement, performance, and organizational effectiveness. At DHHS, we believe in growth—for our people and the communities we serve. We offer comprehensive training, development opportunities, and career pathing. It's not just a job—it's a career with purpose. About the Role Serves as a strategic advisor and trusted consultant to leadership and employees. Instead of focusing only on administrative HR tasks, the HRBP collaborates closely with managers and leaders to align people strategies with the organization's goals. The HRBP helps shape workplace culture, improve employee performance, and guide organizational change — ensuring that HR practices support both employee success and business outcomes. Key Responsibilities Partner with leaders to develop and implement workforce strategies that support organizational objectives. Collaborate with HR teams (e.g., Talent Acquisition, Learning & Development, Compensation, Benefits) to deliver seamless HR support. Manage and resolve complex employee relations issues. Conduct effective, thorough, and objective investigations. Partner with leadership on talent planning, succession development, and change management initiatives. Support implementation of new HR systems, programs, and initiatives. Works closely with management and employees to improve work relationships, build morale, and increase productivity and retention. Provide day-to-day performance management guidance to line management (e.g., coaching, counseling, career development, disciplinary actions). Provides HR policy guidance and interpretation. Requirements /

Qualifications Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in a related field and one year of related experience. Experience may be substituted for education on a year for year basis.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master's degree in Human Resources. Five years of experience as a human resources generalist in Employee Relations, Labor Relations, Recruitment or Training and Development. HR Certification as PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP or

SHRM-SCP.

Other:

Some travel and independent travel will be required. Must possess a valid Nebraska Driver's License. Why Join Us? Meaningful work that impacts Nebraskans statewide. Supportive leadership and collaborative culture.

Competitive benefits including:

Immediate vacation and sick leave accrual. 13 paid holidays. Retirement plan with employer match. Ongoing professional development. Knowledge/Skills/Abilities Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to comprehend, interpret, and apply the appropriate sections of applicable laws, guidelines, regulations, and policies. Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Pay:

From $32.29 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid parental leave Paid time off Retirement plan Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance

Education:

Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

Human resources: 5 years (Preferred)

Location:

Kearney, NE 68845 (Preferred) Ability to

Commute:

Kearney, NE 68845 (Required)

Work Location:

In person