Human Resources Officer

Department: Human Resources

Location: South East Technological University (SETU)

Salary Scale: Grade V – €51,211 to €61,251 per annum

Working Hours: 35 hours per week, plus additional hours as may be required for the proper discharge of duties Annual Leave: 25 days (in line with ministerial guidelines)

Overall Role and Context:

The HR Staff Officer plays a vital role in providing administrative and professional services in the Human Resources department, particularly in managing staff contracts across all areas of SETU.

This role will contribute to the ongoing development of HR’s administrative and reporting capabilities, while also supporting the introduction of new HR initiatives in a dynamic and evolving university environment. The position offers the opportunity to become involved in wider departmental projects, reflecting SETU’s phase of significant institutional transformation.

The role requires a high level of judgement, accuracy, and discretion, with a strong emphasis on the use of information and communication technologies for data management, reporting, and correspondence.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of staff contracts; generate reports as required for SETU, the HEA, and other relevant authorities.

• Provide detailed and confidential advice regarding contract information to individual staff members when required.

• Administer payroll-related contract amendments and updates, adhering to tight timelines.

• Work closely with Payroll/Finance teams and Higher Education Payroll Shared Services (HEPSS) to ensure payroll accuracy.

• Use appropriate HR software tools (e.g., CoreHR) for planning, record maintenance, and reporting purposes.

• Remain up to date on government circulars, agreements, and related correspondence; maintain a working knowledge of same.

• Liaise professionally and consistently with internal university personnel and external agencies in accordance with SETU policies and procedures.

• Collaborate with the Recruitment and Selection Officer to support the effective delivery of the recruitment process.

• Maintain the highest levels of discretion and confidentiality when handling recruitment and contractual matters.

• Assist the HR Manager with any additional HR-related tasks or projects as needed.

• Promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity in all aspects of work, contributing to a positive workplace culture.

• Ensure all relevant records, correspondence, and documentation are stored and maintained in compliance with GDPR and university policies.

Note: This job description outlines the principal duties as currently envisaged but may evolve over time in response to changing university objectives and organisational restructuring.

Person Specification

Qualifications, Knowledge, Experience & Skills:

Essential:

• Must have the requisite knowledge, skills, and competencies to carry out the role and fulfill the duties to a high standard.

• Must meet one of the following minimum academic requirements:

  • At least Grade D3 in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate Examination (including higher, ordinary, applied, or vocational programmes), or

  • Equivalent QQI qualification at a level comparable to the Leaving Certificate, or

  • Possess appropriate relevant experience which demonstrates equivalent skills and expertise.

Required Skills:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills

• Strong interpersonal and organisational skills

• Excellent computer literacy, including proficiency in:

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, MS Teams)

  • Other relevant IT systems

• Ability to manage confidential information with sensitivity and professionalism

• Proven experience working effectively as a team player

• Flexible and open to change, including adoption of new systems and technologies

• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace