Talent Acquisition Specialist

Job Overview

We are seeking a relational and results-oriented Talent Acquisition Specialist to join our team. This role is responsible for managing the full-cycle recruitment process and owning the end-to-end hiring journey for each candidate, including pre-employment, training coordination, onboarding, and final hiring.

The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and demonstrate strong attention to detail, organization, and communication skills. This position requires a balance of administrative excellence and candidate-facing engagement.

This role is primarily desk-based, with approximately 75% of time spent in the office supporting administrative and onboarding functions, and 25% spent off-site participating in hiring events, job fairs, and other talent acquisition initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full-cycle recruitment process, from sourcing and screening to final hiring decisions
• Own the end-to-end hiring process for each new hire, including pre-employment requirements, training coordination, onboarding, and successful placement
• Process all pre-employment requirements, including background checks, drug screenings, reference checks, and I-9 verification to ensure compliance
• Coordinate and facilitate new hire training and onboarding (both in-person and virtual)
• Ensure all DHS licensing and compliance requirements are completed accurately and timely prior to hire
• Create and maintain employee personnel files, including uploading and organizing all required documentation
• Utilize Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and spreadsheets daily to track candidate progress and maintain accurate records
• Collaborate with hiring managers to identify staffing needs and develop effective recruiting strategies
• Source candidates through various channels, including job boards, social media, networking, and community outreach
• Assist Coordinators with sourcing, screening, and scheduling interviews as needed
• Participate in interviews upon request from hiring managers
• Present qualified candidates to hiring managers and coordinate next steps in the hiring process
• Provide timely communication and updates to candidates and hiring managers
• Participate in and support hiring events, job fairs, and other recruitment initiatives (including setup and breakdown)
• Maintain compliance with all regulatory requirements and support internal audits
• Build and maintain relationships with candidates for current and future opportunities

Qualifications & Skills

• Minimum of 2 years of full-cycle recruiting experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Behavior, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
• Strong ability to multi-task and work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy in administrative processes
• Proficiency in spreadsheets and data tracking tools (daily usage required)
• Experience with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong interviewing and candidate evaluation skills
• Knowledge of employment laws and hiring regulations
• Ability to work collaboratively while managing multiple priorities

Work Environment

• 75% office-based (desk work): Processing new hires, pre-employment, training coordination, onboarding, and compliance tracking
• 25% field-based: Hiring events, job fairs, and other talent acquisition initiatives as assigned

YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

Mission Advancement: Reinforces the Y’s values within the organization and the community. Effectively communicates the benefits and impact of the Y’s efforts for all stakeholders.

Collaboration: Builds and nurtures strategic relationships to enhance support for the Y. Serves as a community leader in building collaborations based on trust and credibility to advance the Y’s mission and goals. Communicates for influence to attain buy-in and support goals. Provides tools and resources for the development of others.

Operational Effectiveness: Integrates multiple thinking processes to make decisions. Involves staff at all levels in the development of programs and activities. Ensures execution of plans. Institutes sound accounting procedures and financial controls. Assigns clear accountability and ensures continuous improvement.

Personal Growth: Fosters a learning environment that embracing diverse abilities and approaches. Creates a sense of urgency and positive tension to support change. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

Behavioral Characteristics: Welcoming, Nurturing, Determined, Hopeful, and Genuine.

The YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South aims to provide quality and safe youth programs for all. We are committed to making a continuous effort to prevent the abuse of children: verbally, physically, emotionally, and sexually. All allegations or suspicions of child abuse are taken seriously and will be reported to the State for investigation with full cooperation from the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South.

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