Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.
Van Andel Institute (VAI) is looking for a f ull-time (40 hours/week) Human Resources Coordinator to be a welcoming first point of contact for our employees, leaders and visitors, and to keep our HR team running smoothly. You’ll support the following areas of the HR team: Talent Acquisition, Employee Engagement, Total Rewards and the Chief People Officer. Along the way, you’ll see how every part of a people function works together.
Why this role, why now
Our HR team is growing to serve an institution where research, graduate education, and K-12 science education share a single mission. We’re building a people-first team focused on how employees experience VAI, from their first day to the way their work is recognized. This role provides the organization and follow-through that make that work possible.
What you will do
Talent and Employee Engagement
Keep hiring and onboarding running smoothly behind the scenes: interview scheduling, candidate travel, pre-employment screening records and New Hire Orientation logistics
Support our employee-led Social Team events
Help keep HR cycles on track, such as performance management, with reminders, tracking and logistics
Total Rewards
Coordinate the employee programs that make VAI a great place to work, including lactation room reservations, employee sports teams and welcome gifts for new parents
Office of the Chief People Officer
Provide administrative support to the Chief People Officer, including calendar coordination, meeting preparation and follow-up on action items
Prepare materials and coordinate logistics for HR team meetings and events
Across HR
Welcome visitors, answer general HR questions and connect people with the right expert
Maintain accurate and secure records, process employment verifications and keep required workplace postings current
Help keep HR’s online resources clear and easy to navigate
Suggest better ways of working and help put them into practice
How this role connects
You’ll report to the Director of Talent and Employee Engagement and work every day with colleagues across HR. Because you’ll support every part of the team, you’ll learn how hiring, onboarding, engagement, employee relations, total rewards and people development fit together. For many employees, you’ll be their first and most frequent point of contact with HR. Every quick answer and smooth first day lets our scientists and educators put more of their energy into work that improves lives.
What you will bring
Two or more years of experience providing administrative support or coordinating events, programs or projects
An associate’s degree or equivalent experience
A foundational understanding of HR practices, employee records and confidentiality
Sound judgment with sensitive information, and a sense of when to refer a question to a specialist
Strong organization: accurate records, well-managed schedules and competing deadlines kept on track
Clear written and verbal communication, with a welcoming, responsive approach
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to learn HR systems such as Workday and SharePoint
What we offer
Medical, dental and vision coverage
A 401(k) with a dollar-for-dollar match on your contributions, up to 5% of eligible pay
11 paid holidays, 72 hours of paid time off each year, and 10 days of vacation from your first day
Tuition reimbursement and a lifestyle spending account
An onsite fitness facility and free, covered parking
Location and work model
This full-time role is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. VAI offers a flexible work model, but this role is mainly onsite, because much of the work is in-person support for employees and visitors. Candidates must live in or be…